Here are some common questions from prospective clients:

Q: How does a phone reading work? Doesn’t a person have to touch the Tarot cards?

Phone readings are just as powerful as in person. My process is to have a short meditation right before the call to get clear. Once we’re on the phone, we’ll take a few deep breaths and dive into the reading. First, you’ll slowly count to 10 as I shuffle. Each time you say a number, I pull out the card my hand is on. Really, it’s not just the cards doing the work–the message is relayed through both of us. The pictures are there to guide. I do plenty of phone work and the readings are as profound for my clients.

Q: I’m kind of scared. It’s my first time getting a Tarot reading. What’s your advice?

Read my post, “Notes To A Tarot Virgin.” If you like and trust your reader, it makes all the difference.

Q: Is a Tarot reading the right choice for long range questions?

I’m not big on definitives or time frames because I have a healthy respect for free will. We can ask long-range questions but again, all we have is the present. It’s from the present that we create our future, step by step. The cards may give you an idea of an outcome but we are in control of our decisions and responses which, in turn, influence the cards. I’ve had plenty of readings for myself where an intuitive gave a time frame but it didn’t happen. Did that make the reading less valid? No, because I chose to hear the message and not restrict it to a ticking clock. Remember, the cards are a mirror reflecting your inner landscape at this present moment. If you ask about a relationship (while in one, breaking up or finding one, etc), realize that the other person’s decisions are part of the ultimate outcome, too.

Q: What if I pull the Death card (an oldie but goodie…)?

You may just pull the Death card. Guess what? You’re going to die. We’re all going to die. If you’d like to know when, I’m not the intuitive for you. I have great respect for free will and believe that we all choose on a daily basis to stay or go (think of all the near-misses you’ve experienced.) The Death card reminds us that our lives are one big transformation and when it appears in your spread, you are heading into heavy-duty change. Death also appears to teach us that one day we will experience the ultimate transformation — but in this moment, how are we embracing the change before us?

The Death card is the greatest misunderstood card in the Major Arcana. I’m surprised that clients don’t flinch more when 15/The Devil or 16/The Tower appear–they are some of the darkest and most challenging cards of the Tarot as they push forth the shadowy sides of our natures. All of the cards of the Major Arcana are the Great Teachers, symbolizing the natural cycles we must experience if we are to move onto higher levels of wisdom.

Q: What do I need to do to prepare for a session?

Be as relaxed as possible. Trust that what you need will come through the session. That’s about it.

Q: How often can I see you for a session, Raven?

That’s up to you. Readings are especially powerful around an equinox or solstice. One purpose of a session is the unfolding — and learning to trust your own intuition. Constantly going to a psychic when in pain simply builds a dependence on outside wisdom. All of your answers are within — but I also understand the need for acceptance, hope and giving yourself permission through another. Though I love my work and my clients, I have no interest in being anyone’s guru or psychic crutch. Use your judgment.

Q: So…what is it that you do exactly?

I’m a healer. I heal through touch and through words. I have great empathy for the human condition because I know great loss. Some call me an intuitive or a psychic (I prefer “cosmic cheerleader”). The names really don’t matter as much as me being present for the work.

Q: I feel like I’m psychic/intuitive and want to get into this work. Where do I begin?

Find a trusted mentor(s). I offer Mentoring Sessions for anyone interested in stepping into the amazing world of intuitive work. It’s a life-changing decision, so it’s essential that you find lasting ways to stay healthy, whole and grounded while sharing your gifts. Having a mentor is one of the best ways to do so.

Q: What’s your sign, Raven?

Gemini sun / Aquarius moon / Scorpio ascendant.

Q: When/how can I book a session?

See my Services page. If you have additional questions, please contact me.

“Swallows” – ©2010 Raven Mardirosian