A tarot reading can offer profound insights and guidance. As a centuries-old practice, tarot taps into deep wells of knowledge, drawing on diverse interpretive systems including traditional card meanings, connections to spirits, Kabbalah, astrology, numerology, Jungian psychology, and intuitive wisdom.
From communicating with spirits to interpreting symbols in tarot cards or aligning with celestial influences through astrology, tarot offers various ways to explore personal questions, connect with the spiritual realm, and uncover hidden patterns. Whether you’re new to tarot or looking to deepen your experience, this guide aims to help you get the most out of your tarot reading.
Whilst I’m using the term “tarot reader” here, much of this information also applies to other types of cartomancers, including Lenormand readers, oracle card readers, playing card readers, as well as astrologers and other similar practitioners of divinatory arts.
Psychic, medium, channel: navigating the jargon
Words like ‘psychic’, ‘medium’, and ‘channel’ often carry different meanings depending on who’s using them and how they approach the work. A seeker may encounter terms that feel unfamiliar or evoke certain expectations.
It can help to understand some broad distinctions:
‘Psychic’ generally refers to someone who tunes in to subtle impressions, energy, or information that some consider beyond the ordinary senses, without necessarily connecting to spirits or the dead.
‘Medium’ describes someone who serves as a bridge between the living and the dead, conveying messages from spirits.
‘Channel’ is someone who allows a spirit, deity, or entity to speak or act through them, often entering a trance or altered state.
These words have different origins and historical developments, but often overlap in modern use. Not all tarot readers identify as psychics, mediums, or channels. Some readers may draw from occult, oracular, or cultural practices. Others see themselves as skilled interpreters of symbolism, intuition, and human experience. Tarot readers may use different terms to describe their approach, depending on their background and philosophy.
For seekers, it’s helpful to remember that alignment between definitions isn’t essential. A good reading experience doesn’t depend on the seeker and reader defining every term the same way. What matters most is having a meaningful reading experience.
Any divinatory session is ultimately about understanding, empowerment, and guidance, not getting caught up in language. By staying open and asking questions if something feels unclear, seekers can receive the insights they’re looking for, allowing the experience to speak for itself.
Finding the right tarot reader
Many people walk into a tarot reading out of curiosity or novelty, choosing whoever’s available, and there’s absolutely nothing wrong with this approach! Sometimes the magic happens precisely when you follow your instincts and embrace the spontaneous moment. Walking into a shop or event and getting a reading can be wonderfully fun and surprisingly insightful, regardless of how much research you’ve done beforehand.
However, if you’re going through particularly challenging or significant life situations, or if you’re seeking a deeper therapeutic connection, taking the time to find the right reader can make all the difference. The guidance below is beneficial for those moments when you require additional support.
Understanding the industry landscape can help you make informed choices. Tarot reading isn’t a regulated profession in Australia. Whilst many teachers offer courses and certificates, there’s no formal accreditation required to become a tarot reader. Professional readers come from incredibly diverse backgrounds and experience levels.
Some readers choose to demonstrate their commitment to professional standards by joining organisations that uphold a code of ethics and provide ongoing professional development. Others carry insurance, which offers protection against potential claims and demonstrates a commitment to accountability.
Given this diverse landscape—from newcomers exploring their gifts to seasoned professionals with decades of experience—taking a thoughtful approach to choosing your reader becomes even more important. The lack of formal regulation means that the responsibility falls on you, as the seeker, to identify practitioners who align with your needs and maintain the standards with which you’re comfortable.
Here’s how to find a reader who resonates with you:
Do your homework: Look for reviews and testimonials from previous clients. A reputable reader will have satisfied clients who can speak to both their accuracy and professionalism. Pay attention to how they handle any negative feedback; this often reveals character.
Consider specialisation: Some readers focus on specific areas, such as relationships, career transitions, or spiritual awakening. Others are generalists who work across all life areas. If you’re facing particular challenges, consulting someone with specialist expertise can offer more nuanced insights.
Test the waters: A good reader should make you feel comfortable and respected from your very first interaction. Trust your instincts during initial communication. If something feels off, it probably is.
Look for ethical boundaries: Professional readers respect confidentiality absolutely, never make guarantees about specific outcomes, and will never exploit your vulnerabilities or create dependency. They should also be transparent about their fees and what you can expect from a session.
Consider their communication style: Some readers are direct and practical, others are more intuitive and metaphorical. Think about which approach would best serve you, taking into account your personality and current needs.
Taking these factors into account can help ensure a more meaningful and empowering tarot experience, whether you’re seeking a quick insight or embarking on a more profound journey of self-discovery.
What to expect: pricing and session length
Understanding the practical aspects of tarot readings can help you plan and feel more comfortable going into your session.
Session length: Most tarot readings run between 30 and 90 minutes, with 60 minutes being quite common. The length often depends on the complexity of your questions, the number of cards drawn, and the extent of discussion that unfolds during the reading. Some readers offer shorter 15-30 minute sessions for quick insights or single-question readings, while others provide longer sessions for more comprehensive explorations.
When booking, ask about expected session length so you can plan accordingly. Most readers will give you a sense of timing, though it’s worth noting that some sessions naturally run a bit longer or shorter depending on what emerges.
Pricing: Tarot reading fees vary widely based on factors like the reader’s experience, location, session length, and whether the reading is in-person or online. You might encounter fees ranging from $30 for a brief reading to over $ 200 for an extensive session with an established reader.
Many readers are transparent about their pricing on their websites or when you enquire. Don’t be afraid to ask about costs upfront. Professional readers expect this question and will be happy to explain their fee structure.
Payment and booking: Most readers require payment at the time of service. Ask about their payment methods and cancellation policies when you book your appointment.
Different reading formats
Tarot readings are now available in multiple formats, each offering different advantages. The choice often comes down to personal preference, practical considerations, and how you best connect with guidance.
In-person readings offer the traditional experience of sitting across from your reader, watching them shuffle and lay out the cards, and sharing the same physical space. Many people find this creates a stronger sense of connection and ritual. You can see the cards clearly, observe the reader’s body language, and there’s something special about the tangible experience of being present with the deck.
Video call readings have become increasingly popular and can be just as meaningful as in-person sessions. They offer convenience, access to readers regardless of location, and the comfort of being in your own space. Many readers have adapted their techniques for online sessions.
Phone readings offer a purely auditory experience that some people find deeply focusing. Without visual distractions, you can concentrate entirely on the reader’s voice and your own inner responses to what you’re hearing. Phone readings can feel more intimate and private.
Live chat readings enable real-time text-based interaction, which can be more private and less intimidating for some individuals. You can ask questions and receive immediate responses while maintaining written records of the entire session.
Email readings provide a written record that you can revisit as often as needed. You typically send your questions to the reader, who then draws cards and sends back a detailed written interpretation, often including photos of the card spread. Email readings allow for careful and thoughtful responses, making them perfect for individuals who prefer to process information at their own pace.
Hybrid formats are becoming increasingly popular, especially on platforms like TikTok, where the reader appears on video while clients interact through text comments. These formats combine the visual element of seeing the cards and the reader with the comfort of written communication.
The quality of the reading depends far more on the reader’s skill and your connection with them than on the format. Some people discover they prefer remote readings; they feel more relaxed in familiar surroundings and find it easier to take notes or document the session.
If you’re unsure which format to try, consider your comfort level with different types of communication, whether you have a quiet private space, and whether seeing the cards or having real-time interaction matters to you. Many readers are happy to discuss how they adapt their practice for different formats if you have specific concerns.
Preparing for your tarot reading
There are many ways to approach a tarot reading, and all of them are valid. Some people find it helpful to come with clear intentions and specific questions, whilst others prefer to simply sit back and let the cards reveal what needs to be seen. Both approaches can lead to profound insights. Sometimes the most powerful readings happen when you’re open to whatever emerges, without any agenda at all.
If you would like to prepare beforehand, here are some approaches that can enhance your experience.
Know what to expect
It might seem obvious, but it’s worth mentioning: tarot readers use tarot cards, and other cartomancers work with their respective decks—Lenormand cards, oracle decks, playing cards, and so on. Some tarot readers also incorporate other types of cards and tools into their readings. If you’re booking a tarot reading or other cartomancy session, expect your reader to shuffle, lay out, and interpret the cards.
Some first-time clients are genuinely surprised by this, having expected a purely intuitive reading without any tools. There’s nothing wrong with either expectation, but knowing what’s involved helps you settle in and appreciate the ritual more fully. The cards themselves are central to the cartomancy experience. Their imagery, symbolism, and the patterns they create when laid out all contribute to the insights that emerge.
Set your intentions
Reflect on what you hope to gain from the reading. Are you seeking clarity on a specific issue or looking for general guidance? Setting your intentions can help focus the reading and make it more meaningful.
If you want to come with questions
The quality of your tarot reading often depends on the questions you ask, but remember that having prepared questions is entirely optional. Some of the most meaningful readings unfold when you simply ask the cards to show you what you need to know right now. The right question can open doors to deeper insights, whilst a more limited question might restrict the scope of the reading. While some people seek specific answers or predictions, it’s important to remember that tarot isn’t always about having a clear-cut answer; it can be about perspective, guidance, and reflection. If you have questions that are more focused on outcomes, such as “Will I get the job?” the cards can still provide helpful guidance by highlighting potential obstacles, opportunities, and actions to take.
When preparing for a tarot reading, it’s helpful to approach your questions with a mindset of curiosity and openness. Think about what you hope to explore or understand. Here are some ways to phrase your questions for a deeper and more meaningful experience:
Focus on exploration, not just outcomes: Instead of asking for a direct answer, such as “Will I find love soon?”, consider asking, “What can I do to create space for love in my life?” or “What energies are influencing my relationships?” Open questions invite the cards to provide guidance, action steps, and insights into the bigger picture.
Frame questions around growth: Tarot is a powerful tool for self-discovery and personal development. Ask questions like “What can I learn from this situation?” or “How can I better align with my purpose?” These questions facilitate reflection and provide deeper insight into your journey.
Be open to multiple perspectives: Tarot offers a range of possibilities, not just one “correct” answer. Instead of focusing on a single outcome, ask, “What are the potential outcomes if I take this path?” or “What other options do I have in this situation?” These kinds of questions allow for a broader view and empower you to make informed decisions.
Be ready for the unexpected: Tarot often brings to light aspects of a situation or self that you might not have considered. Stay open to unexpected revelations that may not directly answer your question but offer valuable insight. Trust that the cards will reveal what’s needed for your growth, even if it’s not what you anticipated.
By framing your questions with an open mind and a willingness to explore, you invite the cards to guide you in insightful and empowering ways.
Making the most of your tarot reading
The actual reading is where all your preparation comes together. Here’s how to create the best possible experience once you’re sitting with your reader and they are laying the cards.
Be present and engaged: Try to remain focused during the reading rather than getting caught up in your thoughts, expectations, or anxiety about what you might hear. The most profound insights often come when you’re genuinely listening to both the reader’s words and your inner responses. If you find your mind wandering or feel overwhelmed, it’s perfectly okay to ask the reader to pause for a moment.
Take notes or ask to record: Write down key points and insights to help you remember and reflect on the reading later. Many details that seem obvious in the moment can fade quickly. If you’d prefer to record the session, ask your reader first. Many are happy to accommodate this, allowing you to be fully present without worrying about capturing everything.
Ask for clarification: If something isn’t clear, don’t hesitate to ask the reader to elaborate. A good reader will be happy to provide more context, explain card meanings, or help you understand how different elements of the reading connect. There’s no such thing as a silly question when it comes to understanding your reading.
Share relevant context (or don’t): This is where reader preferences vary significantly. Some readers, like myself, welcome context, feedback, and dialogue throughout the session. Other readers prefer to work with minimal information, interpreting the cards first before hearing your perspective.
As a seeker, you might also have preferences about how much you want to share. Some people find it helpful to provide context and engage in dialogue. In contrast, others prefer to share as little as possible, sometimes as a way of testing the reader’s abilities, or simply because they want to see what emerges without their influence.
There’s no right or wrong approach here. If you’re unsure about your reader’s style, you can simply ask: “Do you prefer me to share context as we go, or would you rather I hold back until you’ve given your interpretation?” Equally, don’t hesitate to share your preferences: “I’d prefer to see what you pick up first before I add my perspective,” or “I find it helpful to have a conversation as we go.” Most readers will appreciate knowing what approach works best for you.
The key is finding a balance that is comfortable for both you and your reader, creating a dynamic that allows the most meaningful insights to emerge.
Trust the process: Even if the reading takes an unexpected direction, trust that the cards are revealing what you need to hear, not necessarily what you want to hear. Sometimes the most valuable insights come from the areas we weren’t planning to explore.
Manage your expectations: Not every reading will be earth-shattering or provide crystal-clear answers. Sometimes the value lies in confirmation, perspective, or simply having space to think about your situation in a new way. A “good” reading isn’t measured only by dramatic revelations.
Notice your emotional responses: Pay attention to how different parts of the reading make you feel. Strong emotional reactions—whether positive or negative—often indicate areas where the reading is touching something meaningful, even if you can’t immediately articulate why.
After your tarot reading
The end of your tarot session isn’t really the end. It’s often where the real work begins. The insights, guidance, and new perspectives you’ve received need time and space to settle, and there are ways to maximise the value of your reading experience even after the cards have been put away.
Reflect and integrate: After the reading, take time to process what you heard. Notice which messages feel most meaningful to you and gently consider how this guidance might inform your choices and actions moving forward.
Give it time: Some insights from tarot readings become clearer with time. Don’t feel pressured to understand everything immediately.
Share your appreciation: If you found the reading impactful, consider leaving a positive review or testimonial. Sharing your experience with others or telling friends about the reader is incredibly helpful and can support practitioners in continuing their work. Positive feedback goes a long way in helping readers build their practice and connect with others who might benefit from their services.
Working with multiple readers and follow-up sessions
Many people wonder whether it’s appropriate to see different readers or return for additional sessions. The answer is absolutely yes—both approaches can be valuable parts of your tarot journey.
Multiple readers: There’s nothing wrong with consulting different readers, whether you’re seeking varied perspectives on the same situation or exploring other areas of your life. Each reader brings their interpretive style, life experience, and connection to the cards. What one reader focuses on, another might approach from a completely different angle, offering you a richer understanding of your situation.
Some people prefer to build a relationship with one reader over time, while others enjoy the fresh perspectives that come from working with various practitioners. Both approaches are valid.
Follow-up sessions: Life is constantly evolving, and so are the insights available through tarot. Follow-up sessions can be particularly valuable when you’re navigating ongoing situations, implementing guidance from previous readings, or when circumstances have shifted significantly.
There’s no set timeframe for return visits. Some people book monthly sessions as part of their personal development practice, while others return when facing major decisions or life transitions. Others prefer to wait until they’ve had time to integrate previous insights before seeking new guidance.
A good reader will never pressure you to book follow-up sessions, but they should be welcoming if you choose to return. Many readers appreciate the opportunity to witness how situations unfold and to support clients through various phases of their journey.
Conclusion
Tarot readings offer a powerful opportunity for insight, reflection, and personal growth. The centuries-old practice continues to evolve, adapting to modern life while maintaining its core purpose: helping people navigate uncertainty, discover hidden patterns, and connect with their inner wisdom.
The key to a fulfilling tarot experience lies not in following rigid rules but in approaching each reading with curiosity, openness, and respect for the process. Whether you’re drawn to the ritual of in-person readings, the convenience of online sessions, or the reflective nature of email consultations, the format matters less than the quality of connection you create with your reader and the cards.
Remember that every reading is a collaboration. Your openness as a seeker meets the reader’s skill and intuition, creating a unique space where insights can emerge. Some readings will offer clear guidance, others will raise new questions, and many will provide the gentle confirmation that you’re on the right path.
Trust your instincts when choosing a reader, embrace whichever format feels most comfortable, and don’t hesitate to return when life’s circumstances shift. Tarot isn’t a one-time fix but a tool that can accompany you through different seasons of your journey.
Most importantly, remember that the real magic happens not just in the reading room, but in how you carry the insights forward. The cards may reveal possibilities, but you remain the author of your own story.