Is finding a teacher necessary to practise dhamma?

Many times I hear people say it's neccessary to have a teacher. I'm a bit lost as how one finds one. I've been to sanghas, talks, retreats but haven't met anyone who ive felt I could approach and ask to be my teacher. The Buddha never had a teacher. If he became enlightened without one then I presume anyone can. I find that the more people I talk to the more confused I become because so many people have so many conflicting condradictive perspectives. From what ive heard and read if you sit and practice mindfulness of breathing etc you will gain insights into the true nature of reality.