Tanga
Nope, I'm giving them an approach. They formulate their own question or topic area and concentrate on it while shuffling. I just try to blank my mind.
Asking what their question is, or giving them a focus/approach - same thing imo. (you'll argue-ish).
You are saying - that you haven't heard their focus out-load, before you start reading for them, yes?
When I have a sitter with "no question" - I may suggest an approach in this way and then start reading and see where it leads - rather than looking in the spread to "see where the answer to their question is"...
I think when we cross the line from "just reading the cards" to making attempts at counseling or advising (unless we're qualified to do so), we can overreach in this way. As Padma said, it's all about listening with all your senses before opening your mouth.
Yes.