Hollow Hill

Ghost Investigations and Touching

“Touching” occurs at some ghost investigations. The sensation of touch is among our five (or six) senses.

It’s one way that spirits may attempt to make contact… literally.

Normal touching

During a ghost investigation, you may feel:

A ghostly hand touch or brush your face or neck.
A gentle brush, as if you’re walking through spiderwebs, even when you’re sitting still.
Isolated hot or cold areas, often measured with a thermometer.
A ghostly breath, particularly near the investigator’s face.
A slap, push, or shove. Nothing too aggressive.
Something leaning into you, encouraging (or forcing) you to move in a certain direction.
Hair brushed, tugged or pulled.
Clothing grasped or tugged.
A sensation that the air is denser, as if you’re walking through water or molasses.
A feeling that the air is pressing on you, in one direction or from all sides.
Tapping on a shoulder or back.
Letters of the alphabet “written” with a ghostly finger, especially on the back of your hand or on your back.

There are many variations of these sensations. All are routine – but can also be rare – at ghost investigations. Usually, they’re nothing to be alarmed about.

If you’re uncomfortable with that, ask the ghost (or ghosts) to stop. In most cases, they will.

Also, let others know what happened right away, so they can check the area for EMF surges or other paranormal activity.

Inappropriate touching

If the ghost is touching you inappropriately, you must bring that to the attention of others in your group.

This is a rare occurrence, but it happens now & then. Though more women seem to be “touched” than men, it’s not a gender-specific issue.

It is not okay for a ghost to ignore your boundaries. Keep in mind, most ghosts are from an era when touching — especially of a sexual nature — was even less acceptable than it is now.

Times have changed, and so have the cues

As the song, “Anything Goes,” reminds us:

“In olden days, a glimpse of stocking
“Was looked on as something shocking.”

Likewise, in the early 19th century, a kiss was considered so significant, some expected a marriage proposal to follow immediately.

Through the early 20th century, a single man and woman would avoid being together (but otherwise alone) in a room with the door closed.

That was against the rules of propriety.

By the late 20th century, the rules had changed again. In some eras and cultures – especially the hippie community – “love the one you’re with” was okay. Others sternly disapproved.

So, the range of what’s inappropriate is even broader when you’re dealing with a ghost.

Depending on his or her context, any touching could be a warning sign for investigators.

What ghosts expect

Some of our most colorful investigations (and ghost stories) are related to locations that were once bordellos.

Wunsche Cafe in Old Town Spring, Texas, is one.

Oilcan Harry’s in Austin, Texas, is another.

So, some ghosts may not realize that investigators – particularly women – cannot be treated as the people who once worked at the brothel.

If you have concerns, state the rules and boundaries out loud.

Also remember that women in trousers were regarded differently prior to the early 20th century. In general, women’s bodies were far more concealed – by corsets, bustles and loose-fitting clothing – than today.

Language considered crude (in the ghost’s era) can also send a confusing signal to ghosts. In fact, speaking directly to a ghost – without introducing yourself first – could be considered very forward, in their world.

The ghosts may not reply (since, as far as they’re concerned, you’re being rude) or think it’s an invitation for something you weren’t expecting.

It may help to announce your name, what you’re doing there, and the year you’re in, each time you investigate a different room or part of the site.

State the rules and boundaries out loud

It’s always better to be too careful than too casual, if you have concerns in a haunted location. Set firm rules and boundaries at the start of each phase of the investigation, and explain them to the ghosts, out loud.

Then, if the ghost behaves inappropriately, he (or she) has no excuse for it. You’ll know right away that the ghost is ignoring your rules, if you’ve already made those rules clear.

If that happens, be sure you’re accompanied by several people, and that continued touching will not be tolerated.

Opportunistic touching

This additional issue is rare, but important.

Even one “problem” in our community is a risk to all of us, as professionals.

We’re often researching in the dark.

Groups split up to investigate.

It’s important never to be alone with someone you don’t know, or with someone who makes you even a little uncomfortable.

Even in a group or crowd, stay away from people who give off a “bad vibe” or seem to make excessive eye contact.

At the other extreme, be wary of anyone avoiding any eye contact at all.

If you feel very uncomfortable or uneasy, say something to a person in charge.

If the situation doesn’t improve, leave the investigation.

(Ask to be escorted to your car, by someone you trust. Never leave a group by yourself, if you’re already anxious about your safety.)

Before accepting someone on your team, no matter how likable the person seems, check his or her background. Ask for ID, so you know what name to research.

When I recently heard about a ghost investigator’s criminal record, I checked his name at the FBI’s National Sex Offender Public Website. There was no record of his past problems, though I’d heard about them from an impeccable source.

I realized that I don’t know his real name. It’s routine for researchers to use a “pen name” to distance paranormal work from their personal and professional lives.

Also, nicknames can be very different from real names. For example, Ted can be short for Theodore or Edward. Nellie can be a nickname for Helen. William is Bill and Robert can be Rob or Bob. Elizabeth can be Beth, Betty, Eliza, Liz, and so on.

So, sex offender lists aren’t 100% reliable if you’re checking on someone you might be alone with. (Check them anyway.) Always take precautions, and follow your “gut feeling” when you’re on a ghost tour or investigation.

I’ve always said: We have more to fear from the living than from the dead.

Use common sense

If your children want to go on a ghost tour or attend an event, they must be accompanied by a responsible adult at all times. That’s not just about the tour guides, but a concern about others attending the tour or event, who might see the darkness as an opportunity.

Here’s the rule: If you feel that you’ve been touched (or had a physical encounter of any kind) -by a ghost or someone in physical form – say something immediately.

If you’re not comfortable with what happened, say that very clearly, too.

Don’t think it was all in your imagination. Speak up, and let the other investigators (or guests) respond immediately.

After all, it might be a ghost manifesting so physically, we could catch an image in a photo. We might be able to record his/her voice in EVP, or measure other physical anomalies with EMF detectors, thermometers, and other tools.

Physical contact with ghosts is unusual in most haunted settings. Physical abuse by a ghost – slapping, pinching, or scratching – can happen, too, but it’s a major warning sign. That location isn’t safe, and the entity might be demonic.

Whenever it feels like someone has touched you, especially if it wasn’t necessary, speak up.

It might have been a ghost. Or it might have been someone in your group, and he, she, or they are using the cover of darkness for bad behavior.

Don’t just shrug it off.

Say something.

Scams and Con Artists in Ghost Hunting – What to Look for

Is that a real ghost hunter… or have they been pretending, perhaps for years?

It’s a legitimate question.

Some people look at ghost hunting, and they see gullible people. Con artists see an opportunity for financial gain, celebrity status, or power.

Sure, some people think they’re more skilled than they really are.

They’re not con artists… or they don’t start out that way.

When I talk about scammers and con artists, I mean the people who look you straight in the eye and tell you lies.

All they care about is personal or professional gain.

Here’s what to look for.

The Biggest Cons Are About Money

The first rule is: Never give or loan money to anyone without getting a signed, dated receipt. (It’s a good idea to have a long-time, trusted friend as a witness, as well.)

I don’t care how nice the person seems. If it’s a loan, also have the terms in writing before you give the person anything.

Create a contract. It doesn’t have to look super-formal. Handwritten is okay.

Include the following in it.

- When the loan was made, and the full names of the people involved.
- How much it was.
- If the loan will be repaid over time, list expected repayment amounts and dates, and what will happen if those terms aren’t met.
- When it’s going to repaid in full, and what will happen if the loan isn’t repaid on time.
- Interest (if any) you’re charging, or if you’re not charging interest.

And, never give or loan money that you can’t afford to lose.

Keep your money safe. Then, look for other signs of a scam or a con artist.

After all, most legitimate businesses – or those starting a business – go to a bank, a credit union, or immediate family for short-term loans. Online options include sites like GoFundMe, Kickstarter, and so on.

If the person is asking you for money, instead of borrowing from usual resources, ask yourself, “Why?”

Know the Warning Signs

Con artists are charming… sometimes too charming.
They tell great stories, as if they’ve lived the kind of life you’d like to live. They seem to be successful or they look like rising stars. You feel like you have a connection with greatness.
Con artists collect friends as quickly as possible.
This is partly because they’ll lose so many friends, as people become suspicious. The larger scammers apparent entourage or fan club, the more you’re likely to believe their extravagant claims.
Con artists seem to have dazzling credentials.
Their friends include famous people. Their degrees (or titles) are impressive. They talk about their past experiences, pending TV shows, and celebrity events they’re planning. Their claims are so extravagant, you think, “Who’d make this up?”
Con artists separate people so they don’t swap notes.
A con artist leads you to believe that you’re one of the only people he likes and trusts. He says he doesn’t trust this person… and then that one. Following his advice, you’ll stay away from them. The con artist knows: if you got together and exchanged stories, his lies might be exposed.

Lies Are Their Downfall

Con artists get a thrill – an adrenaline rush – each time they lie and get away with it.

They can’t stop lying for very long… and they’re often lying on a grand scale.

Check the person’s claims and credentials.

Check all of them, not just the first few that he or she mentions. (I’ll talk about the con artist as if the person is male, but there are no gender limits on scammers.)

Check These Types of Claims

Ministers

Let’s say that he claims a degree or a title, such as ‘doctor’ or ‘reverend’. Ask what kind of degree (or title) it is, and where it came from. Anyone can become a legally ordained minister, for little or no expense.

Here’s one resource: the Universal Life Church

Certified

As I mentioned in my article about certified ghost hunters, “certification” only means someone or some organization issued the person a certificate.

For example, until mid-2021, students of my free Ghost Hunting for Beginners Course were offered a free Certificate of Completion on the honor system.

Then, 90% of people clicked from the course page to the certificate download page, without taking the lessons. So, I discontinued it, but those certificates are still out there, so be wary. Ask questions to determine if they actually took – and completed – the course.

In general, anyone can print that certificate and claim that it means something… but really, it’s only as good as their sense of integrity.

Higher Education and Degrees

Some mainstream universities give honorary degrees. I’ve been awarded a few of those, myself.

It’s flattering.

There’s nothing wrong with having that kind of title, and some do require actual work to achieve the degree.

However, it’s not really a formal, four-year+ degree.

If it’s a degree from a university, check the university’s alumni records office.

Ask if the person is a graduate of the school, college or program. (Many schools proudly post an online list of some of their former registered students and graduates. In some cases, you can also use classmates directories, online, for more information.)

Please note that many universities offer extension school courses, online study, and other legitimate educational opportunities that can lead to a degree.

However, to receive a degree from that institution, most (not all) students must be formally accepted to a degree program. A paper trail usually exists.

Diploma Mills

Some “diploma mills” offer degrees (for a fee), too.

If you’re not sure about the college or university, research them. Even if they claim to be accredited, their accreditation may be fake.

Hereditary Titles

If someone claims a British (or other) hereditary title, check Wikipedia. It lists the qualified holders of hereditary titles, including their actual surnames, and when the title was created.

People in the U.S. – and other countries where formal titles aren’t awarded — can be dazzled by claims to a real title.

Always check the person’s credentials, no matter what their IDs say. Fake IDs are available everywhere, and con artists know that a convincing fake ID is a smart investment.

If the person claims to have a title, look it up.

For example, here’s one page at Wikipedia, listing people who hold the British title of Marquess: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_marquessates_in_the_peerages_of_the_British_Isles

If the person’s title is vague but you know their legal surname, David Beamish maintains a list of members of the United Kingdom peerage from 1801 to the present day, and he has indexed it.

It’s at http://website.lineone.net/~david.beamish/peerages_az.htm and other pages at that website. You’ll also want to check Wikipedia’s list of the Peerage of England.

In many countries, someone can legally change his first name to “Lord” or “Baron,” and so on. So, don’t be too impressed if the person’s driver’s license, passport, or library card shows that kind of name. (For example, filmmaker Sacha Baron Cohen isn’t an actual British baron. But, unlike con artists, he doesn’t seriously pretend to be one.)

You’ll find other legitimate lists of hereditary titles if you search using phrases like “list of [country] nobility.” Here are a few: French nobility – Lists of French noble families (in French) – Lists of nobility (at Wikipedia)

Celebrity Connections

If the person claims to have worked with or for a celebrity, confirm that. Find the official website of the celebrity, and contact the person’s manager or press agent. Ask if the celebrity has worked with the person who’s making the claim.

If the person claims to have been a paranormal investigator for many years, there should be clear evidence of that, online.

Even if the person didn’t have his own website, other people will have mentioned the person, at least in reference to a case, a “ghost story,” or an investigation.

You can see how long ago they registered their domain name by using a WhoIs lookup.

(I’m not being critical of people who are new to the field; many are excellent researchers. This article is about lies that reveal a con artist.)

Cast Members and Media Appearances

If someone suggests that they’ve been on a TV or radio show, or appeared on stage, check that online. Go to the show’s official website and search for the person’s name.

(Remember that anyone can add a comment after an article or in a forum, making it appear that someone was in a show. You’re looking for official cast lists and official lists of guest stars.)

A claim may seem harder to verify if the show was cancelled years ago. It’s not that difficult. In most cases, show information remains online for years, even decades after the show is all but forgotten.

The following are a few older ghost-related TV shows sometimes used as references. This kind of “reality” show became so popular, a complete list would be very long.

Some con artists prefer to claim they were on shows so old, it’s difficult to find a reliable list of cast, crew, and guest stars. The following links may help, and some shows include full cast lists at IMDb.

Ghost Hunters. (See TAPS official website.)
Ghost Hunters International (includes a full cast list).
Most Haunted [UK] (The cast list is also at Wikipedia.)
Paranormal State.
Dead Famous.
MTV ‘Fear’ (different from ‘Fear Factor’).
VH1 ‘Celebrity Paranormal’.

Every major ghost-related TV show and movie is represented by at least one webpage or website. If all else fails, check IMDb and Wikipedia.

If You Find a Con Artist, Tell Others

Fortunately, few people in ghost hunting seek a shortcut to fame or fortune… or plain old control over others, aka a “power trip.”

Almost any person’s claims and credentials can be verified using independent sources.

Don’t assume that the person is “too nice” to lie to you, or their friends are too bright to be conned. The more impressive the person’s stories and claims, and the more convincingly they tell them… the more you must verify them, independently.

If the person is a con artist, it’s better to find out early. Thankfully, scams and con artists are a tiny minority. (To quote the movie, Grease, “They’re amoebas on fleas on rats.”)

Avoid them when you can. Report them to law enforcement if they may have committed crimes.

Though it’s important to be watchful for scams and con artists, it’s also important to keep things in perspective.

The vast majority of people who work in paranormal fields are just like you. They’re kind, sincere and genuine. You’ll meet many of them at events, investigations, and in the field. They deserve your friendship and admiration, and they make ghost hunting even more personally rewarding.

Yes, I Was Conned

Over 10 years ago, I was conned. I wrote this article shortly after that painful truth came to light.

Even now, I’m not sure how many people were involved.

It was a clever ruse, and I fell for their extravagant claims. They talked about money, celebrity connections, TV appearances, and more.

I thought no one would make that up. It seemed so easy for anyone to fact-check their claims, I didn’t bother. (Big mistake on my part.)

Then, one of them went too far.

He mentioned a connection to a noted family (with relatives in my hometown) and – instantly – I knew he was lying.

I quizzed him further, expecting him to correct the obvious error.

He didn’t. In fact, he dug himself in, even deeper.

That’s when I began looking into his other claims… and everything unraveled.

In fact, one associated con artist gave the most damning evidence against the guys who’d conned me (and too many others).

The associated con artist was doing damage control, in case he was revealed as an opportunist, too. (Eventually, he was.)

I’m still sad about what happened, but I had to speak up.

Those of us who’d trusted the guys… we looked foolish.

Some friends had lost thousands of dollars. Charges were filed against the con artists.

The tragedy is, the highest-profile member of the team was a truly gifted psychic.

He made poor personal and business choices, and that brought him down.

Since then, I’ve also learned about convicted sex offenders (be careful around strangers in dark settings) and other criminals in the ghost hunting field.

Other Ghost Hunting Professionals Were Conned, Too

A few years ago, professionals revealed alarming financial issues with my former manager.

Thank heavens I’d stopped working with him long before his problems came to light, but I feel so very sorry for friends who lost money to him.

Worse, he’d been using my name to gain access to celebrity acquaintances and wannabe stars alike.

Please be cautious, even when the individual or team seems bright, fun, and on the brink of becoming celebrities.

Be especially wary if your “gut feeling” tells you that something’s not quite right – or has suddenly changed – with that person.

Trust your instincts, and question everything.

Psychics – The Research Debate

Psychics - the Research Debate Should psychics learn a site’s history ahead of time, or not? That seems to be an issue.

I think it’s important to know the history—and admit to it—but I may be different since I’ve been aware of my psychic abilities since childhood.

Sure, it’s impressive when you think that a psychic couldn’t have known what he or she “senses,”… but are you sure that the psychic wasn’t fed the information ahead of time?

This question was raised when a Most Haunted UK staff member set a trap for another cast member. In my opinion, the issue wasn’t as simple – or as damning – as it may have seemed in the media.

And, to be honest, I thought it was poor form to try to embarrass the psychic in front of a global audience.

There were many other ways to explain what happened in the Most Haunted case, and the choices weren’t binary. That is, I don’t think the only two explanations were “fraud” (on one side) and “envious researcher” (on the other).

Perhaps I’m biased. My instincts always suggested that Most Haunted (UK) featured genuine research. Even after the supposed exposé, I still think the show was authentic, within the scope of a show edited for entertainment purposes. And frankly, I like Yvette Fielding’s willingness to be honest about what she experiences.

(In this article, except for specific TV references, I’m talking about psychics in general. If it seems that I’m describing someone someone in particular, I’m not.)

Here’s how I see it, as a psychic… with apologies to those who may be offended.

Can’t you tell the difference?

Let’s discuss a similar topic. If I see a travel show on TV and later visit that location, I may feel a mild sensation of deja vu.

However, I never confuse my memories of the show with what I’m experiencing during my visit. For me, first-person experiences are totally different from what I’ve learned from prior sources.

During my visit, I’ll say things such as, “Oh, this isn’t anything like it looked on TV.” Or, “This is the exact same angle they showed in the TV coverage.”

Likewise, I don’t mix up psychic messages and my historical studies.

If anything, I’ll say, “Oh, the history books missed something important.” Or, “This gives me wonderful insights into the history I’ve studied.”

If someone is a genuine and experienced psychic, I’m not sure why they’d confuse their sources. But, as I said, I’ve been considered psychic since my earliest childhood. I’ve never doubted my “sixth sense,” thanks to a supportive mother who quickly recognized that I wasn’t making it up.

For me, the distinction between things I learn internally (through psychic channels) and those provided to me through normal research… those two are completely different. They’re like apples and oranges.

When a psychic gets it “wrong”

This subject becomes important when a psychic seems to make a huge mistake.

For example, if the psychic declares that an incident took place at one location… and it actually took place on the other side of town.

Or, if the psychic uses a name that’s fictional, or later revealed to be part of an earlier hoax.

That can look pretty bad.

However, like the unfortunate Most Haunted UK incident around 2005, it’s important to examine every side of the problem.

In my opinion, it’s simplest to do at least some research into the site’s history. This will help you get a context and understand what’s known and what’s controversial about that history.

Otherwise, if the psychic claims no prior knowledge of the area’s history, how can he or she answer questions of credibility? If he or she has never heard or seen anything about the history – difficult, at most locations, as there are always some visual clues – the psychic’s replies can sound made-up, or even silly.

If someone is a fraud – or faking it for an audience – there’s no place to hide.

On the other hand, if the psychic is up-front about his or her earlier studies (or coaching), the possible responses could be:

“I may be sensing energy from someone who felt burdened by what happened somewhere else. He or she brought that energy back to this location.”
“The energy from that event across town was so intense, it’s affected the entire area.”
“The history books got it wrong, or they overlooked what also happened here. With my additional information, maybe we can clear this up.”
Or – if the psychic is honest – “My accuracy isn’t 100%. This is one of those times when I misinterpreted the energy.”

However, those responses are most credible if the psychic has already established his or her integrity by honestly admitting prior study or coaching if there was any.

When a psychic seems “too right”

Psychics have different talents. Some provide great readings. Others are excellent healers. Some – like me – seem to sense past events and their emotional content. The variations are endless.

Psychics also have different skill levels. Those with greater accuracy may have a stronger natural gift or more practice.

However, when a psychic medium gets it “too right” at a location, it’s fair to raise an eyebrow.

clue-magnifier Critical thinking skills are important, even when – or especially when – the psychic is charming and likable.

When we like someone, we want to believe that they’re honest. That bias may reduce our critical thinking skills.

Look at how the psychic conducts him or herself. Psychics talk differently than people who are faking it, or fooling themselves into thinking that they’re connecting with the other side.

We often look different from our usual appearance, as well. The trance state may be evident.

Of course, the waters become murky when the psychic speaks mostly from a genuine spiritual connection… but “supplements” that with information that he or she was given ahead of time.

That’s very clever, and it can be difficult to detect that mix. Even other psychics can be fooled. (It’s happened to me, to my chagrin.)

If the psychic rattles off items that could be memorized – exact dates, for example – there’s even more reason to question what’s going on.

A quick online search will reveal how readily the psychic – or his or her coach – could have found that information and memorized it ahead of time.

(Of course, doubt will be removed if it later turns out that the date or other information is incorrect and has been widely misreported.)

Why raise this issue now?

I don’t want to sound like a raving skeptic. As a psychic and paranormal investigator, I’m very conscious of our vulnerabilities. It’s hard enough to prove to our detractors that we’re detecting or contacting ghostly energy.

Unfortunately, with the popularity – and income potential – of ghost-related events, I’m seeing more (and better) frauds enter this field. That hurts all of us.

To put it bluntly, if you need a demonologist, who would you trust: Someone like John Zaffis, who’s been in this field for years and provided help free of charge?

Or, would you hire someone with a great team tee-shirt who’s been in the field for a couple of months (no matter what his or her claims) and is clearly focused on fame, fortune, or both?

The telepathy question

Evidence supporting telepathy is far stronger than evidence for ghosts and hauntings.

Many psychics are telepathic. We can’t rely on that ability, but it needs to be acknowledged in discussions like this.

There is always the possibility that the psychic is actually reading the mind of someone in the group, such as a historian or someone who read about the site before the event.

If the psychic has a “silent coach” in the audience – someone who is very aware of his or her importance to the psychic – that coach may have studied the site’s history in detail.

The problem is, as psychics, the information either comes from an external source (a ghost, spirit, or through ESP) or an internal source (our own memories or studies).

It can be difficult to discern more than that. For many psychics, a ghost is as “alive” as the historian giving the tour.

Can preparations help?

I believe that historical research can prevent that problem, though it doesn’t entirely eliminate it.

Ancient book When I have a frame of reference, such as my own historical research, I know how and where that information is coming from. This is in sharp contrast with information I receive from external sources, such as residual energy impressions or a ghostly encounter.

If something is a “shade of gray” (no pun intended) – meaning different in character than prior knowledge but different from intense residual energy – I’ll suspect that I’m picking it up telepathically from someone in the audience.

Personally, I’m more likely to lean in a skeptical direction… but that’s my personal choice. Others may differ.

It’s all about integrity and credibility

In lieu of clear, scientific evidence, our most important credential in this field is integrity.

Without that, it’s just a show… it’s entertainment.

There’s nothing wrong with putting on a good show. I enjoy melodramatic “ghost tours” as much as anyone else, but they’re so over-the-top that I never confuse them with an actual ghost encounter.

Credibility comes into question when a psychic knows a site’s history but pretends that he or she doesn’t.

All it takes is one glaring mistake, and the psychic’s reputation is in tatters, and that damage ripples into the community.

In most (but not all) cases, I do know the site’s history ahead of time. When I don’t, I tell people.

That’s not just a point of credibility. It also explains why my impressions may not be as clear or as rapid when I don’t know the history. I may need time to scan my impressions and fit them into the context of a time period or event.

I’m a better psychic when I already know the time period to focus on, or the history of the location.

(It’s like someone saying, “Oh, look at that car!” It’s always easier and faster to spot the car if you know its color, vintage, or at least what makes it interesting. In a similar manner, I more readily connect with ghostly energy when I know the time period or history that it resonates with.)

While I appreciate that some psychics feel that not knowing history gives them more credibility, I counter that missing knowledge can be a liability. At the very least, the investigation can take far longer.

I want to make use of every tool within my reach, to provide in-depth information at every haunted site.

Besides impressing the audience and “proving” myself as a psychic… is there some reason why I shouldn’t learn a site’s history before an investigation?

Recommended reading:

Discover Your Psychic Type

question-75 What are your thoughts on how much a psychic should know ahead of time? Share your opinions in the comment form, below.

Spiritual Protection for Ghost Hunters

Spiritual protection for ghost hunters can be important.

Spiritual Protection for Ghost Hunters After all, we usually don’t know how dangerous a site is until we investigate it.

Arrive prepared, even if you think it will be a simple, casual investigation.

Three Questions to Ask

What protections have worked for people in the past, and which makes the most sense to you?
Does it fit with your own spirituality? (If something goes against your faith, don’t use it.)
Does it fit the spirituality of the ghosts? That is, what did they believe in – or fear – during their lifetimes?

Popular Protections

Garlic

Fresh garlic cloves are available at most grocery stores. Garlic not only repels werewolves and vampires, at least according to folklore, it’s also supposed to keep demons at a distance.

You can carry it in a pocket or your backpack. Some people have a clove in a pendant and wear it as a necklace.

If you tuck a garlic clove in your shoe and it’s against your skin, expect “garlic breath” within a few hours. It will penetrate the skin, enter your blood stream, and carry the odor throughout your body. That’s actually a way some people use garlic as a health treatment.

Salt

I use white salt, but it’s one of two kinds of salt for protection. (The other is black salt.)

White salt is everyday table salt. You probably have it in your kitchen, and you’ll find it in your clients’ kitchens. You can use any table salt, including pink salt and other specialized sea salts. In fact, I prefer sea salt, but others recommend Kosher salt and other specialized salts. In a pinch — pun intended — any salt can work.

People believe that salt repels ghosts and evil spirits. In fact, an old remedy from folklore is to lay down a line of salt… evil entities cannot cross it.

I’m not sure if that’s true, but it seemed to work the one time I tried it.

Black salt can be one of two kinds of salt. One is edible and the other isn’t.

One is a dark, pinkish, sulphur-y tasting salt mined in India. It’s usually sold in upscale grocery stores, among the exotic and colored table salts. It’s also stocked by some ethnic grocers. Vegans and vegetarians use it to make tofu taste like egg salad.

The other kind of black salt is made by mixing table salt with something to turn it black, like ash or powdered charcoal, cast iron scrapings, or really black pepper. People buy it ready-made, usually at a shop related to witchcraft or a botanica.

In Voodoo and related traditions, black salt may lift curses and repel evil and malicious spirits.

Never eat black salt. Do not give it to anyone to consume. Don’t leave it around where children might decide to taste it. Depending on what the black salt is made from, it could make them ill or even kill them.

Holy Water

Some people use Holy Water to bless houses that have very light (but annoying) paranormal activity.

Crucifix and Holy Water on a fireplace mantel. From what I’ve learned about demonic activity, I would use Holy Water only in situations where there is absolutely, positively no likelihood of malicious and demonic energy.

One thing I learned from the late Father Andrew Calder is: If you’re dealing with something dark and demonic, Holy Water can make things far worse… quickly.

Andy had more experience with demonology and exorcisms than most people, and I trust his advice. I wish I’d learned more from him while he was here, but his warning has stayed with me.

I used to routinely carry Holy Water with me. Also, at some websites, you can learn to make Holy Water at home, or even on-the-spot at a clients’ home. (The Holy Water you’ll decant at almost any mainstream, Christian church is a little different, and — in my opinion — more powerful.)

Since talking with Father Calder, I don’t use it at all. In my opinion, most ghost hunters don’t grasp the dangers of Holy Water — and other Christian symbols — if the problem is demonic.

I know that I didn’t.

First-person stories from John Zaffis and other demonologists made that very clear.

If the situation indicates the need for a house blessing, I tell the client to contact their preferred professional spiritual counsellor.

Most priests and ministers will expect a small donation to help offset their travel expenses, but it’s always worthwhile when a blessing is needed. And, to be blunt, it’s the safest approach.

Charms, amulets, and tokens

St. Michael the Archangel. Click image to download a printable version, and keep it in your wallet or backpack.

In non-demonic settings, spiritual objects, symbols, tokens, and scriptures seem to serve as protection.

Weirdly, that’s true, even when the person using them doesn’t believe in the associated spiritual tradition. I have no idea why.

It’s possible that the object symbolizes a religion that the ghost believed in, or still believes in.

These include holy medals (St. Michael medals are especially popular), pendants representing a lucky horseshoe, iron nails (may repel faeries more than ghosts), or a lucky rabbit’s foot (not widely used during ghost hunts, due to their association with animal cruelty and death).

Some ghost hunters wear “lucky socks” or a similar item of clothing. They firmly believe those items provide protection from evil… or at least bad luck.

Others wear a garment or piece of jewelry that was left outside on the night of February first or second. According to folklore, Brigid (or St. Bridget) blesses these items, making them especially lucky, healing, or protective during the coming year.

Liquor

In some folklore and spiritual traditions, pouring liquor on the ground as a gift is helpful if you’re requesting assistance or protection from the good spirits at the site.

On the other hand, offering liquor to some spirits in Vodun, Voodoo, and related traditions… that can bring out the mischief makers.

My ancestry and traditions are mostly Irish. When I really need help with something, I visit the grave of one particular ancestor, pour good Irish whiskey on the ground, and then have a one-sided chat with her, telling her what I need. It seems to work.

What I use

Quartz crystal Here’s what I carry: I have a couple of crystals in my wallet. One is a Herkimer diamond – the same kind used by “Ghost Busters” Dan Akroyd and his dad, to purify their Crystal Head Vodka.

Sometimes, I carry or wear hematite. Usually, I wear it as a pendant. (Mine is on a simple cord.) In folklore, it’s a general purifier. Does that actually work? I have no idea, but I like it as jewelry.

In my wallet, I have a St. Michael the Archangel medal, blessed by the late demonologist, Father Andrew Calder.

It’s been one of my most valued forms of protection since Andy was called home in September 2012. (Any priest can bless any medal you have. The combination of the St. Michael imagery plus the metal plus the blessing… that can be powerful in some contexts.)

In my car, I usually have blessed salt as well as religious scriptures. I use those only in extreme cases… and that’s very rare. I am very mindful that any case I consider “extreme” could be antagonized – and made worse – by any Christian symbols or scriptures. So, if the situation is that dire, I usually have the client contact a demonologist, or at least a local priest or minister.

Every community, ethnic group and spiritual tradition recommends different kinds of spiritual protection.

Whether those methods actually work or it’s “placebo effect” doesn’t matter to me, as long as (a) it’s not summoning an energy that could later be a problem, and (b) the people who are nervous feel they are out of danger due to that protection.

If you don’t believe in a particular religion but you’ve always wondered if one of their tokens or symbols might be helpful… well, it might be worth a try. (Research it, first. Some spiritual tokens or figures have both a “light” and “dark” side. Don’t make the mistake of accepting help from the spiritual equivalent of an unscrupulous protection racket.)

Protection doesn’t have to be grandiose, super-mystical, or performed with flourishes. It can be a small, mainstream token or gesture, and – to be frank – sometimes those are the very best option, if you might encounter something sinister.

Plan ahead

Spiritual protection can be important for some ghost hunters.

That can be a simple prayer or circle before entering the haunted site, or something else.

It doesn’t have to be an object (after all, what you’re dealing with probably has no physical form in our world), but these are things to think about before your investigation… not something to regret leaving out, once things get strange at a haunted site.

You may also be interested in these articles:

Possessed? Need help?
Exorcisms and Demons
Psychics: Maintaining Your Boundaries
If a Ghost Frightens You

Are Ouija Boards Dangerous? Fact, Fiction, and Warnings that Could Save Your Life

For many years, when I talked to groups – especially to people who aren’t ghost hunters – I heard more questions about Ouija boards than any other subject.

Ouija boards have always been a volatile subject.

The following are my opinions, and how I reply to some questions and claims.

Claim: If you use a Ouija board, you’re asking for trouble.

In most cases – but not all – I agree.

When a professional is called to investigate a serious haunting, we almost always discover that the homeowner had used a Ouija board.

Some people insist that that Ouija boards can cause hauntings.

My opinion…?

I respectfully suggest that – in some cases – this might be putting the cart before the horse.

If a haunting is severe enough to call a professional, the homeowner has probably tried many other ways to deal with the problem… including folk remedies and Ouija boards.

In other words, the trouble was already there.

The Ouija board often came later.

However, in the case of demonic activity – something I don’t deal with, but refer people to professionals – almost every case involved a Ouija board.

Some demonologists offer deeper insights. I trust their opinions. Here’s what John Zaffis has said.

But, if you’re called to investigate a haunting, blaming the homeowner for using a Ouija board won’t resolve anything.

Look for solutions, instead.

Claim: Psychics can be ghost hunters, but they shouldn’t conduct seances.

Maybe. In my opinion, the problem is how we use different words, and what they mean to different people.

First of all, I believe everyone has some psychic abilities. I think it’s hard-wired into us.

But, just like some people can sing beautifully and others sing off-key, some people are gifted psychics.

Others have talents in other areas.

I don’t think it’s appropriate to set up a seance. That is, a formal gathering where the psychic opens him/her/their selves to allow a spirit to speak through that person, or through a Ouija board.

My concern is about a technique that involves inviting an entity to use the body of the psychic, so the entity can speak to others attending the seance.

At a haunted site, a psychic might:

Sense ghostly or spiritual energy. That could be from an entity or residual energy. That’s commonplace during a routine ghost investigation, and it can help confirm if a site is active.
Receive messages. That’s less common, and it usually involves a ghost who’s trying to make contact. The experience is like receiving a phone call, but the message can be a little garbled or difficult to understand.
Act as a trance medium. This could be planned or it could be spontaneous. In most cases, that’s a conscious choice by the psychic (or medium), and it can be a risky one. Generally, I ask my researchers not to do this. Not during the formal investigation, anyway.
Conduct a seance. This is very different from most of what goes on during routine ghost investigations.

Problem #1

The psychic puts himself or herself at risk as soon as the door is open, even a little.

That’s up to the psychic. Most of them are aware that they may be in danger, and take precautions before opening at all, even to “lite” spirit messages.

In my research, I evaluate many things before saying yes. Is the psychic very experienced in his/her/their work? Will anyone else be at risk, if things go very wrong? And, is the psychic prepared to deal with any repercussions?

Note: If you don’t have confidence in the skills and spiritual defenses of a psychic you’re working with, don’t work with that person.

Problem #2

In some settings, trance mediums can give spirits the idea that it’s okay to move into any undefended person’s mind or body.

It may be a rare occurrence, but if even one trance channeling session goes wrong, it’s one too many.

In one case in downtown Salem (Massachusetts), a trance medium was part of a team investigating a haunted house.

The trance medium allowed a spirit to speak through her.

But, whether from inexperience or spiritual interference, she didn’t close that door firmly when the investigation concluded.

About 20 minutes after the investigating team left the house, the spirit successfully invaded the mind and body of one of the homeowners.

It was so terrifying, that person’s partner called 911.

Extreme? Yes. Rare? I hope so.

However, starting around 2005, and certainly since 2008, we’ve seen a dramatic increase in demonic attacks in this field.

(Note: I talk about demonic activity. Whether all of that comes from actual demons… that’s outside my range of expertise.)

I’m talking about sessions in which a psychic or a medium isn’t just transmitting messages from one world to another. The psychic or medium is actually allowing the entity access to his/her/their mind, body, or both.

There’s a fine line between “getting a message,” externally, and a spirit that’s “inside my head and saying ___.” That line is difficult to explain if you’re not accustomed to working with psychics.

Don’t open unknown spiritual doors

If you’re going to use a ouija board anyway, know how to protect yourself.

In general, I believe that ghost hunters should avoid making any investigation personal.

If spirits want to communicate with you, it should be on the same terms as the living. We make it as easy as possible for them to speak to us through EVP, photos, ghost boxes, other devices and measurable means.

There is absolutely no reason for anyone to put themselves at risk by “letting in” a spirit that might be malicious, but cleverly disguised.

I’m not questioning the skills, spiritual gifts, or competence of most psychics.

But why take chances you don’t need to? Carry and use devices like voice recorders, EMF meters, etc., and give spirits time to figure out how to communicate through them.

A skilled, trained, experience psychic can be an invaluable asset to paranormal research. I’m happy to work with psychics during almost any investigation.

However, alternatives (such as real-time communication devices) should – in theory – work just as well (or better) in most haunted settings.

Establish firm boundaries and know your limits

The trance state should not be attempted by novice investigators, especially in haunted settings.

Also, there have been enough problems with Ouija boards – under any label – that I won’t use one, or allow my team members to use one during a formal investigation.

In general, it’s risky to use any divinatory tool if you don’t fully understand:

The difference between allowing a spirit to use a device, and letting the spirit use you as the conduit to that device. If you’re part of the spiritual “circuit” (referencing electrical connections), you’re putting yourself at risk.
Defenses you must set up before using the device.
The doorways you’re opening.
How to recognize trouble as it approaches.
What to do to protect yourself if the worst happens.

The problem isn’t necessarily the tool you choose.

The issue is a lack of boundaries. I’m concerned that some people may not have the experience and training they need.

Know when firm boundaries are needed, Recognize when they’ve been crossed.

And, be prepared for the worst: Know what to do if you (team members) discover you’ve been fooled by something that’s not a ghost, after all.

In most cases, it’s best not to open those doors – with Ouija boards and seances – unless the situation offers no alternatives.

What you see on TV is just part of the production team.

In most (not all) shows, the stars and producers know the risks, and they’re prepared to take responsibility for them if things go wrong.

Please don’t think you can casually replicate what you’ve seen on TV, or at a faux “haunted house” event.

The risks can be deadly.

Find out more at: If You’re Frightened and Need Help.