Actress Denise Richards credits a psychic connection with her late mother for inspiring her to host an upcoming TV series that links American families to their dead relatives.

The 38 year old has remained close to her mother Joni by getting regular readings from a psychic medium her mom befriended shortly before her 2007 death.

And she jumped at the chance to work with famed psychic John Edward on his series "Cross Country" next month, as he travels across the U.S. and helps to connect lingering spirits with their loved ones.

Richards tells the New York Post, "I wanted to believe mom was still around. I wanted a reading. I wanted to believe in some form of reincarnation. I need to think in whatever way I can that my mother is still with us... I desperately have wanted a message from my mother, and I want to hold onto anything which will make that happen. I've told her to stay in contact with me even if she has to talk to me only through (her psychic) Natalie."

(This news article provided by World Entertainment News Network)