I am new to hobbying, only one experience through an agency so far about a month ago.  The first experience was pretty insane with anxiety and ended up to some extent affecting my ability to enjoy it as much as I'm sure I would have if I hadn't been so anxious.  I'm assuming this is something the average hobbyist quickly overcomes and just was curious if anyone with more experience might have some pointers!?

read the self help center.  Second, do your research on any provider you want to see.  We are all anxious, I am every time I see someone new, but think about the fun you are going to have.  If you have done your research properly, your chances of a bad experience will be minimized.  

Read reviews to find a good GFE provider. Book enough time to get to know her a little and then let her lead you. You don't have to be superman trying to impress her. It's normal to have a case of nerves when you are starting out but it gets easier the more you do it. Don't forget to breath, just sit back and enjoy what she is doing for you.

but it takes me at least a couple 2 hr appointments to loosen up enough to really enjoy it.  

Plus practice.  It gets much easier with experience.

Maybe try an AMP (asian spa), to get used to being naked and touched by a provider without having to "perform".

I was a nervous wreck when I started.. Hands shaking.. unable to get it up... I saw one Provder first who was very patient ( a 2 hr appt.) then saw another for shorter visits between HH to 1 Hr. She told me my hands were shaking less and she could tell I was getting more comfortable.. The naked thing never bothered me at all..initially it was "I'm finally gonna get laid again"..realization.. and like many here  no sex in the marriage for many years.. (there are a lot of other threads for that story).. but you will get over it.. When I started I went a little nuts seeing 2 girls a week.. I had to slowdown and try to get it under control.. but I'll bet I was not too far from the norm.. Just when we think we have a strange issue,we discover how normal we are..

You're feeling anxious because it's new, strange and you probably have an out-sized fear of STDs and LE. Along with pressuring yourself to perform, it's a boner-killer. If you liked that one you just saw, see her again even if she wasn't your ideal. You'll feel more comfortable, at ease and you'll have dropped any unwarranted fears. You'll be more willing to open up about whatever fantasy or activity you want to indulge in. At that point, she's the pro - let her work her magic.

I can relate. I can be on my way to appointment and have to remind myself this is for fun so why is my chest pounding? Pretty much goes away with the first hug. There's nothing wrong with saying to the lady "I'm new to this and kind of nervous." Don't add to your inner tension by trying to bluff her the way you might in the real world. If you drink alcohol and her website says she likes to as well, then bring something you both can imbibe. Don't drink ahead of time and arrive with liquor on your breath though.

provider who will be very understanding of your anxiety and take it slowly to build up to a great explosion at the end.  For the most part, MILF's tend to be much better at this than a young 20 something who is just trying to get you to come fast without the needed foreplay.

It works for me sometimes.

Awww this is so sweet. I'm new as well and believe it or not - new providers are scared as you hopefully you get someone that can read people and *you* well enough and help you feel calm. This is part of the service I provide. I am very new as well - all the best and take good care ~ V

I am always nervous on a first date.  I think the suggestion to try a AMP or just a Massage Provider  (FBSM) Erotic massage is a good one.  Get used to being around girls some.  I'd also suggest that you see well reviewed providers (at least 6-10 reviews & some by experienced reviewers).  
I'd also remind you that this is a short time thing & you do not need to be 110 percent compatible.  Do not start out with your number one choice.  Instead pick a solid provider who will be good enough.  I suggest you stay away from the youngest providers for now...  the MILF category  at least later 20's & up are more understanding.

I did get the VIP membership and have had an opportunity to do a lot of research over the past couple of weeks through the forums and the Self-Help center.  Thanks for all the advice, I will definitely be taking the bulk of it moving forward!

Sounds like you are on the right path. Just try to relax, it gets easier and it's so much fun. Feel fee to come back and ask any more questions you might have.

I had been to some Gentlemen's clubs and then was given a BBBJ in the back room and offered covered full service. This was less than a year ago. I had heard this could happen but never dreamed it would be me. Ultimately I didn't complete that offer but later as I thought about it I became curious enough to explore and found this site and others that helped me along the way.

through either P411 or Date-Check.   Anyone of the ladies who does any kind of screening will ask you for this information without having to give up all of your personal information each and every time.  
 
Third: The regional advertising boards here, or the gallery city search through Date-Check will provide lots of potential options.  You can read the reviews, and get the feel for what others think about the lady.