Using FAPI's storage mechanism in custom node type forms

I have a question about coding forms for custom node types. The examples i've found thus far have the _form() function have &$node as a parameter, whereas regular FAPI forms have &$form and $form_state as parameters. Can I use $form_state in my custom node type's form? I'm specifically looking to utilize $form_state['storage'] to persist my own data between steps.