This study aims at investigating the perceptions and feelings concerning professional practices in mental health services and is focused on issues related to work satisfaction. This is a descriptive study based on a qualitative approach which has been developed through three communitarian services involving 29 professionals. Empirical material was gathered though the target group. Once the content analysis was completed, the results were directed at the perceptions of professional practices, also highlighting all experienced dilemmas and obstacles related to work satisfaction. These obstacles serve to expose all of the difficulties faced by workers in light of requirements stemming from Brazilian Psychiatric Reform ideals which cause them to feel paralyzed, and also the lack of resources required to support professional practices. All of these factors exemplify an extreme situation - living and coping with the distressing feeling of being unable to accomplish their work as they believe it should be done.
Mental health; Professional practice; Community mental health services