She doesn't Google or Facebook stalk clients before readings, and actually had never planned to become a medium. But at 30, Melissa Mills is one of New Zealand's youngest high-profile psychic mediums and is bringing evidential mediumship to the masses with her fresh and modern New Zealand Whispers from Above tour. We chat to her to find out more about what she does
What is an evidential medium and can you give us an example of that in your work?
Evidential mediumship means the medium gives specific information - that they can't bluff their way through the connection.
Mediumship is about giving evidence of the afterlife ... so, giving details beyond those that are general. Evidential mediumship is about specific details such as tattoos, a habit they had or items placed in their coffin.
When did you first notice your intuition?
It's hard for me to pinpoint an exact time, as I've always had this heightened intuition and I've never known any different. The first time I ever heard a spirit that was significant to me was when I was 11 and in need of guidance in my life.
I heard a voice so clearly outside my mind. I now know this was one of my guides, but I can remember that moment so clearly, that I'd say it's what made me aware that I was potentially different from everyone else.
You describe yourself as a "modern psychic medium". What does that mean?
A modern psychic medium pushes new boundaries with their ability and the way they communicate with spirits. For example, I give evidence about who the loved ones in spirit are with, what they are doing in the spirit world and evidence of how they walk with you still.
It's about bringing a new way of demonstrating mediumship that makes it acceptable to everyday society, so it eventually becomes the norm. I also do "spirit hugs".
What are spirit hugs?
Spirit hugs are a new phenomenon. I've been experimenting with them but now, I'm excited to introduce them to my New Zealand shows. They allow loved ones in spirit to hug you once again, using me as the medium.
Each hug is unique, with specific mannerisms to the loved one being brought through. They are incredible to both experience and witness, and every hug has been life-changing for the recipients.
It's such a personal experience and I feel so privileged to be able to bring mediumship that one step further with spirit hugs.
Tell us about challenging elements of your work.
The fact I work with an energy that is not tangible can make it frustrating, at times. Also, it's not as straight forward as people think. A lot of my work comes down to my interpretation of what I am given from spirit. It has taken years of training to get to this level of understanding.
What do you say to those who don't believe what you do is real?
I fully respect their belief. Everyone has the right to their own belief system. I understand that what I do is not for everyone. However, I hope I can shine a positive light on spirituality and educate people along the way.
If you weren't a psychic medium, what job would you work at?
I did train and work as a primary school teacher. Although, I always wanted to be a criminologist, because crimes and why people commit them have always fascinated me.
I love how the human mind works. It boggles me how complex, yet simple, we can be.
Have you ever been frightened by your work?
No, not at all. I've never once experienced anything that would scare me because I've set clear intentions from the beginning that I want this work to come from a place of goodness and love. I believe you can give power to the fear by getting caught up in it.
I choose to focus my energy on how I can create a positive difference in people's lives.
You have two children - what do they think of what you do?
My children are still young. My son doesn't understand all of this yet. My eldest she thinks it's cool. They accept my work and show an interest and curiosity for aspects of it. I am allowing them to make up their own minds about it all. If they ask, I try and explain it to my best ability for them.
Tell us about your Whispers From Above tour.
It's a nationwide tour bringing modern mediumship to New Zealand. My shows are completely unique and they are entertaining.
Even though we are dealing with such a sensitive topic, I try and bring joy to my audience (when it's appropriate).
It's an empowering evening too, full of so much love and healing. The spirit world is magnificent, and the fact that they are able to communicate with us all is something I feel proud to be a part of.
Melissa Mills brings her Whispers From Above tour to the Tauranga Boys' College on July 14. For tickets and more details, check out iTicket, find Melissa Mills on Facebook, see www.melissamills.co.nz/tour or email bookings@melissamills.co.nz