Conflicts for the Female Therapist: Some Reflections

This article arises from personal reflections following study in a particular field. It analyses some of the factors which influence the development of a women's profession in a male-orientated society. The structure and relationships within the health services are perceived as a reflection of the position of men and women in society. A second issue, that of the perspective which produces the classification of occupations, is touched upon. The importance of keeping valued ‘female’ characteristics as well as developing ‘male’ ones is discussed.