Given the significant insertion of psychologists in the field of social welfare, this investigation analyzed the performance of these professionals in the Reference Centres for Social Assistance (Centro de Referência da Assistência Social - CRAS), highlighting their actions and comparing them with the other activities offered in such services. We interviewed 20 psychologists in 17 CRAS in metropolitan area of Natal. We identified actions that are distinct of traditional practices of psychologists, however, the psychosocial supervision, important activity in protecting the families, is not satisfactory. In addition, a large number of psychologists use the traditional clinical approach, a kind of service not usually offered by CRAS. So, the field of Social Services enables psychologists to act in services which fight against poverty, but the challenges of social policy itself and the barriers that accompany the history of the profession remain.
psychology; professional practice; Sistema Único de Assistência Social
