This is my story and take it for what it is worth.

I lost my virginity at 25 (yes, 25 and by choice).  I lost it to a woman I was dating at the time but not in love with.  To this day, I regret doing it.

Just one man's experience.

you have not had many women pay attention to you.
By your own admission you have been unable to find a girl in the regular world.

Hmmmm, Unless you are able to detatch your emotions when getting that  _close_  to another human, I would have to say bad idea. Especially considering many of the GFE type are VERY good at convincing us dumb males that we are all that just to get us to keep coming.

On the other hand, if you are somewhat cold hearted it is a very good idea.

There is someone for you out there in the "regular" world.  You just have to stop, think deeply and do a sound analysis of what you want from a relationship with a woman.  If you want sex without having to go through the daily process of making a relationship work, then this hobby probaly is best for you.  If you want a relationship with a woman and look forward to spending significant time with her, then this hobby is dead wrong for you.
    A lot of hobbyists see providers because they choose such a relationship over the alternative of finding an SO and maintaining a meaningful relationship with the woman.  That choice is not a bad one, I make it everyday and many others do also.  If you hobby, make sure that you have clearly concluded that you want to be in this category.

I would say it depends upon your frame of mind and what you want/expect to get out of the experience.

If you feel this will help you get over that first big hurdle, and then continue to pursue normal healthy relationships, it's not such a bad idea. But also understand beforehand that this hobby can be very addictive and expensive to many men, so proceed very cautiously and consider this when making that decision. The hobby can be very beneficial if you are able to maintain a good clear perspective of what it is and also what it is not. It is never a replacement for a real relationship.

As for telling her, if and when you finally meet face to face, if you are nervous and filled with anxiety it may help to tell her at the beginning of the session. She is a professional and has heard it before so don't be embarassed or ashamed, that's one positive to seeing a pro, they will never judge you. However, if you go through with it and are comfortable and relaxed, it is not necessary to say anything, it can be your secret.

be certain to always make informed decisions and do not act on impulse, good luck to you, and PLAY SAFE
best regards, mr.man

you should be at lease 25 by
at 25 99% of all the woman are non virgian so big woop there were saving them self.
at 25 95% of the guys are non virgian main because they save them self and then find they can get a have the night slut ness like woman can.
I still and rember a lot of 17-19 yoars women that were saving them self well they dont for long.

I'm not looking for any big emotional connection, I just want to blow off some steam

My contrarian opinion is to do it, find a GFE in your area. I wish I had of done it when I was younger, I think it would have made me less self conscious and more confident in dating in the "real" world when I was younger.  

I would caution you with making it a habit at your age.  I would tell the provider if you feel really comfortable with her, only as you get started in your meeting, not in arranging a meeting.

Just my two cents.

Hey nightranger, I was in the same boat you are in except I lost my virginity at 26.  I took the plunge with a very hot asian girl last friday and I don't regret it at all, go for it you will feel like a great weight has been lifted off of you.