In short: look for a teacher with clear ethics, training in a recognised tradition, transparent finances and a community that welcomes questions. Attend a few sessions before committing, talk to long-term students, and walk away from pressure, secrecy, big money demands or anyone who discourages you from thinking for yourself.
Where to look
- Established centres and monasteries in the directory.
- Local sitting groups: find a group near you.
- Retreats led by senior teachers in a lineage, such as the Goenka-tradition courses.
Questions to ask
- Who trained you, and in what tradition?
- How is the centre funded? Are costs and donations clear?
- Is there a published code of conduct and a way to raise concerns?
- Can I talk to other students?
Green flags
- Teaches the precepts and lives by them.
- Welcomes questions; the Kalama Sutta invites testing teachings for yourself.
- Does not claim special powers or demand obedience.
Red flags
- Pressure to join, donate or hand over control.
- Secrecy or no accountability.
- Discouraging doctors, therapy or family.
- Any sexual or emotional exploitation. If this happens, leave and talk to someone you trust.
Related: women's retreats · is a silent retreat safe? · monk rules
Questions people ask
Do I need a meditation teacher?
Not to begin. Many people start with books and sitting groups. A teacher helps when you take up longer retreats, face difficulties in practice, or want to go deeper.
What makes a good teacher?
Clear ethics, humility, training in a recognised lineage or community, transparency about money and policies, and encouragement to question and think for yourself.
What are red flags?
Pressure to commit quickly, demands for large sums, secrecy, claims of special powers, discouraging contact with family or doctors, and any sexual or emotional exploitation.