During the Ashland City Commissioners meeting on September 25, 2025, a resident raised significant concerns regarding the potential establishment of psychic services in the community. The speaker, a mother of three daughters, expressed her apprehension about the impact of fortune telling and divination on vulnerable populations, particularly young girls.

Highlighting that up to 80% of clients seeking such services are women and girls, she argued that these practices can lead to cognitive distortions, which may exacerbate anxiety and depression. She cited studies indicating that individuals, especially impressionable youth, might turn to psychics instead of trusted community figures for guidance, potentially leading to harmful dependencies.

The resident emphasized that while some view psychic services as harmless entertainment, she believes they pose real dangers, particularly for children. She described these practices as preying on vulnerable individuals, suggesting that they could introduce young people to anxiety and fear, ultimately clouding their judgment.

In her address, she referenced historical texts and modern literature that categorize fortune telling as part of the occult, warning that exposure to such practices could lead to negative emotional consequences. She urged the commissioners to consider the broader implications of allowing psychic services in Ashland, particularly in a community already grappling with issues of addiction and mental health.

The discussion reflects a growing concern among residents about the influence of alternative practices on youth and the need for community leaders to prioritize the well-being of their constituents. As the city considers the potential introduction of these services, the voices of concerned parents like this resident highlight the importance of safeguarding the mental health of Ashland's young people.