How to choose an astrologer – a simple checklist

You don’t need to know everything about astrology before booking a reading. You don’t even need to know exactly what type of reading you want.

A little preparation can help, though. Start with what you’d like to explore, then consider whether the astrologer you’re looking at has the experience and approach that fit your needs.

Before you book

• Know what you'd like to explore. Think about the question, situation or area of life you'd like to discuss.
• Look at the astrologer's approach. Consider whether their style of working sounds like a good fit for you.
• Check their traditions and techniques. If a particular tradition or method interests you, look for an astrologer who works with it.
• Consider their experience and training. Look at their professional background, qualifications and relevant experience.
• Check the consultation format. Make sure the astrologer offers the type of consultation you want, whether online, in person or both.
• Look at available trust signals. Verification, reviews, professional associations and published work can all provide useful context.
• Read how the astrologer describes their work. Their profile should give you a reasonable sense of how they work and what you can expect.
• Check the practical details. Look at the price, availability and booking arrangements before you commit.
• Ask questions if you're unsure. A professional astrologer should be able to explain their approach and consultation clearly.
• Choose someone you feel comfortable with. There is no universally best astrologer – the right fit depends on what you're looking for.

What should I ask an astrologer before booking?

Before booking an astrology reading, ask about the astrologer’s experience, approach, consultation format and fees. You should understand what you’re paying for, what information to provide and what you can reasonably expect from the session.

Six useful questions are:

1. Do you have experience with the question I want to explore? For example, relationships, career decisions, personal growth or important life transitions.
2. What is your approach to astrology? Ask whether the consultation is primarily psychological, predictive, traditional, spiritual or a combination.
3. What happens during the reading? Find out whether it’s conversational, how long it lasts and whether you’ll have time to ask questions.
4. What is the total cost? Confirm the fee, currency, payment arrangements and whether preparation, recordings or follow-up support are included.
5. What information do you need from me? Ask whether your exact birth time is necessary and how your personal information will be handled.
6. What are your booking and cancellation policies? Check how appointments are arranged and what happens if you need to reschedule.

You can often find some of these answers on an astrologer’s profile in the Good Astrologers directory. Where information is missing, contact the practitioner before paying.

For ideas about questions to explore during your consultation, read what questions to ask an astrologer.

What makes a good astrologer?

There isn’t a single qualification, tradition or style that makes one astrologer right for everyone. What matters is whether the practitioner’s experience, approach and way of working suit what you want from the consultation.

You may also want to consider how clearly they describe their work, whether their expectations are realistic and whether they treat astrology as something to explore rather than promising certainty about your future.

For more detailed guidance, read how to choose the right astrologer or explore The Guide to Astrology Readings.