The exact date and location of Theresa Berkley's birth remain unknown. Based on her estimated age at the time of her death in 1836, it is believed she was born sometime between 1775 and 1785. Virtually nothing is documented regarding her upbringing, family, or early experiences. This period is a blank slate, leaving much to speculation about the formative events that might have shaped her future path.

While there's no definitive record, it's reasonable to infer that Theresa Berkley entered the world of sex work sometime in the early 19th century. London, during this period, had a thriving, albeit often clandestine, sex industry. This period likely saw her acquire the skills, connections, and understanding of the market that would eventually enable her to establish her own unique business.