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This article looks at the expectations surrounding the primary task of child protection, the confusion of roles, and the failure to respect boundaries within a French social children’s home (MECS). Based on an assessment of the institution and a clinical case study, we will see how it was possible to create a psychotherapeutic framework that is flexible and open to the outside world. In this way, the research and development efforts helped to promote reflection and prevent those involved from abandoning their primary mission and falling into despair.