The Caps as a potential space: dialogues with Winnicottian theory

Abstract

Supported by the redemocratization movement and the Health Reform, the Psychiatric Reform constituted  the basis for the model used in substitute services, like the Psychosocial Care Center (CAPS), a device for the  promotion of mental health. Due to its objectives and  functions, we saw the possibility of relating CAPS with  Winnicott’s concept of potential space, an  intermediate area between psychic and shared  realities, where one can be creative, not just adapted.  We tried to investigate whether the CAPS has characteristics of a potential space in the Winnicottian sense. 14 works were selected, including dissertations, theses, and scientific articles  from the last ten years. In analyzing the data, we  sought to detect the presence of conditions in the  potential space, like the holding, handling, and  presentation of objects, in activities or aspects of the  functioning of the CAPS, such as reception, the  Technical Reference device, environmental provision,  and the institutional support. Finally, we concluded  that, although there are factors that limit the potential of the service, the management of professionals and  the ambience offer conditions for the CAPS to operate as a potential space.