TEORIA DAS RELAÇÕES INTERPESSOAIS: REFLEXÕES ACERCA DA FUNÇÃO TERAPÊUTICA DO ENFERMEIRO EM SAÚDE MENTAL.

Objective: To reflect theoretically on the importance of Peplau's Theory of Interpersonal Relations, contextualized with the process of formation of the nurse's identity as a therapist in mental health and psychiatry. Methodology: From the study of Peplau's work on Interpersonal Relations in Nursing and other texts, the reflection was organized in three axes: the theory of interpersonal relations, the therapeutic relationship in Peplau's theory and the counseling sub-role. Results: The three axes were detailed, combining the contributions of the literature, with new possibilities of application of the theoretical framework. Conclusion: The Theory of Interpersonal Relations focusing on the concept of counseling enables reflections on the representation of nurses as therapists and strengthens nursing actions in the context of mental health care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]