That reader sounds like they’re projecting their own insecurities. Stay far away because they’re doing you no good. I’ve been reading professionally for years and use both Oracle and Tarot depending on what the situation calls for.
Oracle cards aren’t cheating - they’re just a different tool. What they said to you is the dumbest thing I’ve ever heard someone say about Tarot… and that’s a long list.
Some of the most skilled readers I know started with Oracle because it let them build confidence without getting bogged down in memorization. You can actually start doing meaningful readings right away instead of spending months studying before you feel ready.
The whole “real work” comment is classic gatekeeping. Tarot has this 78-card structure that stays the same across decks, which some people love. Oracle decks are all different - could be 30 cards, could be 100, each with its own vibe. Neither is better, they just work differently.
If you’re drawn to both, get one of each and see what clicks. Most of us end up using both anyway. Oracle for daily pulls and gentle guidance, Tarot when you want to dig deeper into psychological patterns. Your local reader probably just invested a lot of time learning Tarot and wants to justify that investment.
Personally, if I started again, I would probably start with one of the beginner’s Oracle decks from this thread.