ABSTRACT

Pre-briefing session is an opportunity for the therapist to outline what he or she expects from the interpreter and to describe how he or she will approach the session and what the interpreter can expect in terms of support, briefing and debriefing. Interpreters who are overwhelmed by the material can shut down in the session in order to manage their distress, which is likely to come across as distance or boredom to the client or therapist. Interpreters need to be an empathic and gentle presence. This can be a reassuring and helpful addition for the client in therapy when offered by both therapist and interpreter. If the interpreter is fully supported and contained, the interpreter can be fully present and involved, but remain separate enough to feel psychologically safe. Providing ongoing support must always be part of the role of the therapist when traumatic material is being explored.