As a Practice Tarot Reader, you may occasionally receive requests that feel challenging, sensitive, or outside your comfort zone. These moments are opportunities for growth, not just as a Tarot reader but as someone developing skills in communication, ethics, and empathy. Let’s explore how to navigate these situations gracefully and professionally.
How Do I Handle Clients Asking Predictive or Third-Party Questions?
It’s natural for clients to approach Tarot with the expectation that they’ll receive a prediction about their future or insights into someone else’s thoughts. This perception is often shaped by how Tarot is portrayed in popular media as a fortune-telling tool. However, this is your opportunity to shift the narrative and empower your client to create their future instead of simply being told what might happen.
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Educate and Empower: Take a moment to explain how Tarot can provide valuable guidance, focusing on self-reflection and actionable insights rather than definitive predictions. For instance, you might say:
- “Tarot works best when we focus on what you can control. Let’s explore how the cards can guide you toward your goals or help you navigate this situation.”
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Reframe the Question: Help your client shift their focus to something they can act on or influence. For example:
- Instead of “Will I get a promotion?” → “What steps can I take to increase my chances of career advancement?”
- Instead of “What is my partner thinking?” → “How can I improve communication in my relationship?”
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Encourage Collaboration: Let your client know that by asking the right questions, they’ll get the most out of the reading. This approach not only sets clear boundaries but also transforms the reading into a tool for empowerment and growth.
What If the Question Conflicts with my Tarot Reading Ethics?
Certain topics, such as medical diagnoses, legal advice, or predicting specific future outcomes, fall outside the ethical boundaries of Tarot reading. These situations are best addressed by professionals in those fields. Here's what to do:
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Reframe the Question: Guide your client toward a question that aligns with ethical Tarot practices. For example:
- Instead of “What health issues might I face?” → “What steps can I take to support my overall well-being?”
- Instead of “Will I win my court case?” → “How can I best prepare for the challenges ahead?”
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Explain Gently: Let your client know that while Tarot can provide guidance, some questions are better suited for medical, legal, or financial professionals.
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Decline Politely If Necessary: If the client insists on asking a question you’re not comfortable answering, it’s okay to let them know you won’t proceed with the reading. Leave the request in your "In Progress" folder, and it will automatically cancel after 14 days.
What If the Question Conflicts With My Personal Ethics?
Topics like extra-marital affairs, morally sensitive issues, or subjects that make you uncomfortable may arise. In these cases, the key is to approach the situation with professionalism and an open mind:
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Be Non-Judgmental: Remember, your role is not to judge but to provide guidance through the cards. Try to maintain a neutral perspective, even if the topic challenges your values.
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Use Tarot as a Neutral Messenger: Approach the reading from a place of curiosity and compassion, letting the cards guide the message rather than inserting personal opinions.
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Set Boundaries: If you’re unable to separate your personal feelings from the reading, it’s okay to explain to the client that you cannot proceed. Be kind and considerate in your response.
What If I Don’t Feel Experienced or Skilled Enough for the Question Asked?
It’s natural to feel unsure when a question seems outside your expertise. Remember, the Practice Reading platform is here to help you grow as a Tarot reader. Trust in your skills and let the Tarot guide you.
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Embrace the Learning Opportunity: Use this as a chance to expand your understanding. Research the topic using Tarot books, guides, or resources available in the Community. You can also revisit Tarot classes within the platform to brush up on relevant techniques.
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Reach Out for Support: Engage with your peers in the Group Discussions to share your experience and seek guidance (while respecting your client’s confidentiality). Often, other readers have faced similar challenges and can provide valuable insights.
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Take Your Time: You have 7 full days to complete the reading. Use this time to reflect, prepare thoughtfully, and let the cards guide your process.
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Trust Yourself and the Tarot: Confidence grows with practice. Remember, the Tarot is your partner in this journey—it will reveal insights that align with your current skill level. Lean into the experience, knowing that every reading, no matter how challenging, contributes to your growth.
With each reading, you’re building the foundation of your skills and confidence. Even if it feels intimidating at first, you’ll gain valuable experience and insights that will support you on your Tarot journey. You’ve got this! 🌟
What If a Client’s Request Is Inappropriate or Offensive?
Sometimes, you may encounter requests that are explicit, abusive, racist, or otherwise inappropriate. These situations can feel uncomfortable, but you have the tools and support to handle them effectively.
Here's what to do:
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Report the Request Through the Platform:
- Click "Need Help" in the top-right corner of the reading.
- Select "The Request is Inappropriate."
- Click "Report Reading," and our team will review the issue.
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Submit a Support Ticket for Urgent Matters:
If the request is particularly troubling or requires immediate attention, please contact our team directly. Submit a Support Ticket
How Can I Navigate Challenging Situations with Clients?
Clients often approach Tarot with deep emotional needs or vulnerable situations. While some requests might feel challenging, these moments can be turned into opportunities for growth and connection:
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Empathize: Acknowledge the courage it takes for someone to share their concerns. Even if their question is not aligned with your ethics or expertise, treat their inquiry with respect and kindness.
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Educate: Many clients have limited understanding of how Tarot works or what it can offer. Explain the empowering nature of Tarot and help them see how it can support their journey.
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Validate and Reframe: Listen carefully to their concerns, then guide them in rephrasing their question into something actionable and empowering. For example:
- Instead of “Will my partner leave me?” → “What can I do to bring more harmony into my relationship?”
- Instead of “Why am I so unlucky?” → “What steps can I take to create more opportunities in my life?”
If your client’s request involves themes of self-harm, abuse, or other critical issues, take extra care. Your role as a Tarot reader is not to provide professional support in these areas but to offer compassion and guidance toward appropriate help. Please see this Article for additional support options - I Am Worried My Client is At Risk / In Crisis / Suicidal / Abused / In Danger - What Do I Do?
Key Takeaways for Handling Uncomfortable Reading Requests
- Reframe When Possible: Help clients ask questions that are ethical, empowering, and focused on their own actions and insights.
- Be Honest and Kind: If you can’t proceed with a reading, communicate your boundaries with compassion. Let the client know you won’t be able to complete their request and leave the reading in your In Progress folder.
- Embrace the Challenge: Treat uncomfortable moments as opportunities to refine your communication and grow as a Tarot reader. You’re not just building Tarot skills—you’re also developing your ability to connect with and support others.
- Report Serious Issues: Use the platform’s reporting tools for requests that are offensive or inappropriate.
Can I Decline a Reading If I’m Not Comfortable?
Yes, you can decline, but reassignment is discouraged. Instead:
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Communicate Openly: Explain why you cannot proceed with the request. For example:
- “Thank you for sharing your question. Unfortunately, it’s outside the scope of what I feel comfortable addressing. I encourage you to rephrase your question or request a new reading after 15 days.”
- Allow the Request to Cancel: Leave it in your "In Progress" folder, and it will automatically cancel after 14 days.
Need Extra Support?
If you’re ever unsure how to handle a situation, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team. We’re here to help!
- Submit a Support Ticket here for personalized assistance.
- Explore Community discussions to learn from fellow readers who’ve faced similar challenges.
Remember, every reading—even the challenging ones—is an opportunity to learn, grow, and deepen your confidence as a Tarot reader. You’ve got this! 🌟