What I am about to say does not involve every person you come across, but is generally important criteria involving how to fish out a good spiritual counselor from the frauds.  A good first impression is important, and while this article is written for clients, service consultants may benefit as well.

          The first impression online is judged differently than meeting someone in person.  People tend to judge the quality of information they are reading with attributes discovered in the beginning of the journey.  A professional will always appear to be a professional online, which means a truly gifted person would explain themselves clearly, concisely, accurately and use grammar without spelling mistakes.

         A spiritual person consulting others will care what their business looks like.  If this person takes pride in what they do, they would not post information looking like a seven year old wrote it.  If this person can't take the time to proofread their own information, you can't be sure they will take the time to care about accuracy and forming connections may prove harder.

          A good counselor will take the time to personalize themselves and explain why they can help you.  They give a clear understanding with how and when to contact them and are able to work with people without verbal cues.  When a spiritual counselor truly wants to help, they can give specific information given with the path of circumstances.

          Good counselors know how to compensate with not having verbal communication.  Which means they not only express what they are feeling in e-mails, they will include emoticons as well to show actual thoughts.  Some people prepare for the worst, may interpret the information wrong and become confused if emoticons aren't used.  I understand people wouldn't come to me if they weren't worried about something negative, so as a counselor I make sure they truly understand the message and explain things thoroughly.  A good counselor will not be rude or exhibit disgust with your feelings, and will always reply to your messages, even if it has to be at a later time. 

          If you see any criteria that isn't regarded as important in this article, the person may not serve you in the fashion you are expecting.  You are paying these people for a service, and it's important to not waste money.

REFERENCE:
Watkins, Ryan, & Corry, Michael, (2008)  E-Learning Companion, Houghton Mifflin Company, pp 105 - 109, Developing Positive Online Relationships.

To read my next article involving attitudes and consultations, please click here.