During a recent appearance as a guest on 'It's In The
asked how I felt about having to use the disclaimer
"for entertainment purposes only" as a professional reader.
The topic of this disclaimer comes up every now and then.
It seems most troublesome to many readers who strive to
eliminate certain stereotypes that unfortunately comes
"with the territory," so to speak.
I am comfortable with clearly defining what I provide
to customers at the time they get a reading. I know that
what I do in terms of helping people gain perspective on
life issues is a serious matter for me and my clients, even
though I cannot claim any professional licensures.
The use of this disclaimer and other similar statements
may actually be required in some areas when it comes to
"psychic" services or fortune-telling. Most of these fall
under consumer protection regulations outlined by the
Federal Trade Commission (FTC). They are usually pretty
straightforward and have language that can be used as
they are written. Some readers prefer to outline their own
versions of their obligations and their client's rights.
These notices also serve to protect the business owner or
service provider from legal actions for damages.
The mission of the FTC is to prevent deceptive or unfair
business practices, especially when it comes to making
claims about a product or service that claims to do
something that it cannot. They protect all consumers.
Most importantly, advertisers must have evidence to
back up their claims or risk getting into trouble with
the law.
It is important to remember that, although you take
your tarot consultations very seriously, if you are not
licensed to counsel or provide therapy, you need to
state this clearly to those you serve, or else consider
using "for entertainment purposes only" when you
charge for your services.
The best thing to do is to define in writing your terms
of service and let the consumer know up front that you
are not a licensed professional. One great way to do
this is to have the disclaimer in writing on your website
or blog where clients would go to purchase a reading
or service from you, and make it clear what they are
agreeing to by making a purchase from you. For legal
questions on divination services in your area, talk to a
qualified attorney.