The aim of this exploratory and descriptive study was to describe the community therapy practices reported by 27 healthcare professionals within the Brazilian National Health System (SUS), in Santa Catarina, Brazil. The data were gathered through individual semi-directed interviews, and content analysis was used for categorical themes. The results were grouped into five categories: community therapy practices; implementation strategies; difficulties; facilitative elements; and benefits. It was concluded that community therapy can contribute towards construction of expanded clinical action and improved value for territory resources. However, community therapists' actions need to be extended to a multidisciplinary team, have dialogue with other entities, receive support from service management and be allied to other public policies, in order to expand their field of action from healthcare to other sectors.
Community therapy; SUS; Healthcare professionals; Healthcare practices; Psychosocial intervention
