I've been a professional astrologer for more than a couple decades. I generally don't solicit clients here but since you are asking. . .
I do not ask for payment in advance. Upon the rare occasion that I have to reschedule, I'll apologize and never even dream of blaming a client. Yikes
I'm sorry you had a bad experiience with your local astrologer.
If you send a request, I'll forward some of my writing so you can get a feel for my spiritual orientation.
As you can see from these threads. . .
http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.ph... http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.ph... . . .there used to be many more pro's who posted here and if someone had a specific question we all were happy to help folks out. An in depth reading is a whole other matter though as it takes tons of energy to type up.
I'm writing other stuff now so I do readings in person or over the phone pretty much exclusively, aside some stuff I do on a more exclusively spiritually oriented site.
Astrology is at best, a useful tool to circumnavigate life's transitions and assist in celebrating the personality . It can really help quell impatience as it reveals the timing of potential resolutions. It does not negate free will in any way shape or form.
Take care and I hope your next experience is far more affirming. Just understand, there are charlatans in all fields, that doesn't mean all practitioners are unscrupulous.
Best,
stella