Intuitive counselors and psychic readers have long been the subject of controversy.
This article addresses the difference between the two and offers a few tips on how to identify a true professional in the sea of countless "corner psychics" and scam artists today.
What is the difference between an "intuitive counselor" and a "psychic reader"? Aren't they the same? They can be the same, however an intuitive counselor contributes counseling guidance and wisdom to help people change their lives, as well as psychic impressions.
One reason many intuitives use the term "intuitive counselor" is because the title is more commonly accepted and understood than the word "psychic".
Also, a quality intuitive counselor will have extensive education, training and experience, so their client sessions will be professional and thorough -- much different than a basic "psychic reading".
They will be able to offer extremely meaningful, helpful and insightful information for their clients' highest and best good.
What exactly is a "reading"? A reading is just a description of a session with a psychic reader.
A psychic or intuitive uses their psychic abilities to sense, feel, "hear" and/or "see" the energy fields of a person.
From this energetic field emanates the energy of emotions, feelings, influences, and desires.
A gifted psychic can interpret this for the client into meaningful information including impactful reactions to the client and other people around them, possible outcomes, and estimated time frames.
As with any profession, a reader's abilities range from merely slightly able to feel "something" to incredible insights, visions, predictions and outcomes accompanied with deep spiritual wisdom and guidance.
Is it correct to define a psychic reader as "a person who uses his or her intuition to make predictions"? Yes.
But there's another reason many intuitive counselors don't like to use the word "psychic" to describe themselves.
It just doesn't accurately define them and what they do.
A reading with a quality intuitive counselor is an actual counseling session to help clients find out where their blocks and struggles are, what they are, how to change, and what to do to facilitate that change.
It will most likely include psychic impressions, but also wisdom, insight and guidance -- not just "Well I see this, and that, and so on and so forth".
Information is not enough, it's also important to give the client tools to enable change.
What tips could be helpful in telling the difference between a "basic psychic" and someone claiming to be a true professional? To start with, never be timid or shy when you call to make an appointment with a psychic.
Ask them about their experience and training.
Ask them how they got started in this profession.
Ask them if they are licensed -- some counties and states require licenses.
Ask if they tape record the session or mind if you tape the session.
And always ask how long the session will be, their exact fee, and if they accept checks and/or credit cards.
Are there any other clues that might indicate the presence of a scam artist? Just remember that quality professionals conduct themselves accordingly.
They do NOT claim they can solve all your problems, or absolutely "take that black cloud" away, or make outrageous claims if you will pay them exorbitant amounts of money.
Truly professional readers generally have extensive training or credentials that validate their spiritual or intuitive expertise.
The same is true in any field.
It has taken them a lot of time and hard work to get there -- and it's often been very expensive.
We are fortunate nowadays because there are many sources of psychic and intuitive training programs available.
There are even spiritual and holistic colleges that offer expert training.
If one feels they are called to this profession they need to search out qualified teachers to learn and practice under.
Ethics and integrity are of the utmost importance.
Where can one find expert training and qualified teachers these days? The College of Metaphysical Studies in Clearwater, Florida (Tampa Bay) has a wonderful Master's Degree program in Spiritual Counseling.
And the Edgar Cayce Foundation in Virginia Beach, Virginia offers an excellent 4-year program of psychic development courses.
And studying at Holos University with Dr.
Norman Shealy towards a PhD in Transpersonal Psychology and Theology would be an excellent choice as well.
Is it commonly known that such training programs and credentials exist? I'm sure most people have no idea.
However, these programs are now becoming much more widely available.
And it just stands to reason that when you invest a high level of time and effort in professional training, you will attract quality professional clients.
This has certainly been true in the past and I feel it will become even more crucial to the success of future intuitive counselors.