Psychological assistance provided by a Specialized Center of Reference in Social Assistance and the perspective of law professionals and child protective agents

This is a qualitative study aimed at analyzing the perception of child protective agents and law professionals about the psychological care provided to children and adolescents by a Specialized Center of Reference in Social Assistance. Semi-structured interviews were conducted, and the results indicated that this Center has been a reference in providing services such as referrals and psychological assistance to victims of violence. The assistance provided by the Psychology professionals in the context of social assistance is considered very important for the understanding and support of children and adolescents in a situation of violence. However, the municipal public assistance offered does not always meet local demand, and, most of the time, it starts too late. Therefore, the results show need for more local government's investments to promote the implementation of services and to hire specialized professionals to assist children and adolescents in a situation of violence.

Keywords:
Counseling; Adolescent; Child; Social services; Violence