Fortune tellers are individuals who predict the future through mystical or supernatural means by interpreting omens, casting lots, or employing other techniques. The most common forms of fortune telling are palm reading, astrology, and tarot reading. Another form of fortune telling is spiritual consultation, in which the fortune teller gives the client advice received from spirits or in visions. Individuals may seek the assistance of fortune tellers in order to make more informed decisions regarding their future plans and health conditions.

Besides divining the future, many fortune tellers can also give character readings. In this case, a person's character is analyzed by the fortune teller, who gives no clues as to that person's future. The person being read may be the client, who seeks greater knowledge about him or herself, or a third person.