My current T was a referral and turned out to be a good fit.

He has over 35 years experience, has a PhD, which were both important. However, my previous T had a PhD but wasn't a good fit. He is accepting, and validating.

For some reason, I preferred a male (I am a female) as a T.

I learned to trust my gut instinct. I knew my last T wasn't a good fit and I know that this one is.