I recently made an appointment with a visiting provider here in NY. Being a newbie I had only one reference since I am only a part timer. The woman I spoke with was very nice, I gave her my reference and the ad she had the last time my reference visited NY. To my dismay the cell # my reference used was no longer in service. So I was unable to secure an appointment. Its a catch-22, need a refernece to see someone, but cant get an appointment without a reference. What to do??

See if she could verify you any other way.

You can always go the verifcation site route like RS2000 and Datecheck, but beyond that you will have to find a provider who will accept lots of personal info on you such as where you work, live, etc.

How you approach the gal is just as important as how much information you give out.

Be sincere and brief; eventually you'll find a date.

With enough time, there are ways to get screened without referances.
If you travel, as was suggested, one of the screening agencies.
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work information, and verification sites are all good places to start. Using an agency might get you an appointment a little easier, but the references may be a little trickier. Be patient, and try to get some appointments with some of your local ladies rather than trying visiting ladies.

One time I was visiting out of town . . . and like you I'm only an infreq hobbyist.
So I gave the provider references and my personal contact information as she requested.  Smart little thing she was she did an internet search on me to insure that I wasn't some kinda' creep, or had a criminal record, or something.  [She told me that later.]
She found out that I hold a more highly visible position with a very prestigious local group in my hometown.  THAT was the reassurance she needed.  I really did wonder why she was soooo accomodating in arranging our get together . . . she figures I had the $$$ AND was probably enough of a decent guy that I wouldn't hurt or rip her off!