I think it helps to narrow down the field if you can ask someone you trust, and who's been in therapy, if they can recommend someone. At least, that way, you're on the right track to find a type of therapist that suits you (that is, if you generally like that person's recommendations). I found my current one, and best match ever, from a referral by a therapist that a colleague had suggested--so, not a direct route, but a thread that I followed. Mostly though, you have to be prepared to contact several and follow up to see who meets your needs.