ABSTRACT
Clinical work has traditionally been viewed as a dyadic interaction where the relationship between the clinician and the consumer becomes the mechanism for treatment. In therapy, most of the symptoms are conveyed through communication and subsequently communication is one of the primary methods of treatment. Without a shared language and cultural framework, the introduction of an interpreter becomes necessary. The challenge of interpreters and clinicians working together is that there are so many complexities and nuances at play, it is nearly impossible to address them all and to discuss them succinctly while considering any level of depth. This chapter will attempt to provide an overview of multiple considerations. Both authors work for the Alabama Department of Mental Health, Office of Deaf Services, which is renowned for its Mental Health Interpreter Training Program.
