The Military Police of the State of São Paulo (PMESP), Brazil, plays a crucial role in a vast territorial area of 248,219 sq. km (approximately 95,838 sq. miles), serving a significant population of 44 million inhabitants. The force comprises approximately 80,000 active-duty PMESP officers spread across 645 municipalities, with an additional 70,000 veterans. The focus on mental health is a strategic objective of the institution, aiming to enhance actions for the protection of the physical and psychological well-being of PMESP officers, with a special emphasis on strengthening the mental health system.

To address mental health needs, the Center for Psychological and Social Care (CAPS) was established in 1985, with the development of clinical psychology in the PMESP in 1990, in response to internal and societal demands. On May 23, 1994, clinical psychology services for officers and, in specific situations, their family members, were officially instituted in the PMESP.

Currently, CAPS plays an important role in this context, striving to meet the needs of the force. The service comprises more than 100 psychologists distributed across 41 Psychosocial Care Centers (NAPS) covering the entire state territory. These centers are strategically located in macro-regions to decentralize the service and provide access to all officers.

One of the tools utilized for mental health care is psychotherapy. It is believed that engaging in therapeutic settings provides PMESP officers with the opportunity to promote self-awareness, relieve tension from conflicts or stressful situations, develop emotional intelligence, improve personal and professional relationships, and overcome conflicts, promoting quality of life as a part of this prevention.