This paper deals with qualitative research conducted in the Therapeutic Residency Service in the municipality of Campina Grande, State of Paraíba, Brazil, the objective being to ascertain the difficulties encountered by the professionals in the healthcare practices defined by the aforementioned service and identify the prospects identified by them for the residents. A semi-structured interview routine was conducted with ten professionals for the data collection, along with analysis of field records and systematic observation. The main difficulties faced are of a structural nature, namely lack of human resources and/or training and social support. Social reintegration, insertion in the workplace and autonomy are the expectations singled out by the professionals. In light of the results, it can be affirmed that, in spite of the difficulties experienced, it is possible to see progress, such as the autonomy of some residents. Nevertheless, as it is a recent service, it needs to be constantly evaluated.
Mental health; Disinstitutionalization; Assisted living facilities