The role of psychotherapist carries with it special stresses to which
many professionals react with depressive feelings, particularly in mid-
life. Psychotherapists who participated in small group sessions at two
annual institutes of the American Group Psychotherapy Association revealed
their depressive feelings in a striking way. Some were able to relate these
feelings to early family dynamics that motivated their choice of a
caretaking career. The groups concluded that there is a continuing
necessity for the caretaker to acknowledge and seek care for his emotional
needs. Planners of continuing professional education for psychotherapists
should make these needs a central concern.Abstract Teaser