INTRODUCTION: The family is a focus for observation and intervention not only for family therapists but for all those dealing with the psychiatric patient. During our study carried out at the Institute of Psychiatry of Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (2005-2006), we investigated the several methods used by psychologists and psychiatrists to work with the families. In addition to showing the specific professional approaches and some other difficulties, we aim at increasing the visibility of the family, highlighting the experience of these professionals. METHOD: We used a qualitative methodology by means of individual interviews. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Data from the 15 interviews suggest that, despite the obstacles, the interviewed professionals keep contact with the patient's families. Systematization of the several methods of contact is necessary so that family assistance can be provided on a regular basis and studies that show the effectiveness of the intervention proposals can be enabled.
Family; psychiatric hospital; intervention