This study aims at describing Community Therapy's implementation at a Mental Health Services (CAPS), identifying problems experienced by its users and families and the coping strategies; and analyzing CT's contributions to user's social inclusion. In this predominantly qualitative study, the technique of semi-structured interview and CT's assessment sheets were used. Family conflicts, insomnia and abandonment were the major problems cited, and several coping strategies were mentioned, such as: family support, religious belief, professional help, etc. It was proved that user's participation on CT have contributed to their social inclusion, because they report behavior changes in their interpersonal relationships. The experience has shown excellent results, because it works with neglected social aspects.
Mental health services; Family relations; Social support