Spiritualism combines philosophy, science, and religion. It is considered the only religion that uses evidence to support the belief system. Today many consider spiritualism as an evolution of consciousness rather than "just" a way to communicate with the spirits of those those who have passed.
The afterlife, or the “spirit world” is seen by spiritualists not as a static place, but as one in which spirits can continue to evolve and that they may contact - or be contacted by - the living. These two beliefs—that contact with spirits is possible, and that spirits can continue to evolve —lead spiritualists to the belief that spirits are capable of providing useful insight to those here on earth. These insights may not just provide guidance about how to live our lives on earth but information about the experience of the afterlife. And especially how much love those in spirit and spirit itself has for the people still living.
Some spiritualists will speak of a concept which they refer to as “spirit guides” - specific spirits, who can be contacted by the living and can be relied upon for loving spiritual guidance. These guides can be called upon by the living for this help but as we have free will as humans they do not interfere. They only provide guidance if it is requested.
Spiritualism is currently practiced primarily through various spiritualist churches and centres in the USA, Canada, and the United Kingdom.