The authors described the idea of a psychosocial approach in treating people suffering from schizophrenia, which is based on Manfred Bleuler's and Antoni Kepinski's concepts, and which is crucial in their thinking about the causes and the course of schizophrenia. This approach refers to the idea of a bond and solidarity. It creates comprehensive, integrated models of treatment, rehabilitation and supports the individual throughout the long years of living with the illness. Therapeutic relationship, self-activity of patients and the role of the group are fundamental in therapeutic programmes at every phase of the treatment. A community psychiatry model implemented in Krakow consists of 11 institutions, which form a network of mental health centres open for patients and their families. To illustrate the programme, the authors describe activities that intensify the psychotherapeutic experience; therapeutic camps, dramatherapy, employment and the anti-stigma programme.