ABSTRACT
This contribution deals with the ins and outs of professional interpreting in mental healthcare. It is based on the premise that the primary task of the interpreter is to give a faithful rendition of the words which the therapist and their patient utter; that the interpreter should be neutral and independent, and should refrain from having an input of their own. In practice though, interpreters can be too neutral, and a faithful rendition is not always easy, especially as mental healthcare places an emphasis on ‘listening between the lines’ and patients’ language use can be idiosyncratic. Amongst other aspects, empathy from the interpreters’ side and recycled questioning form the therapists’ side are particularly important. Interpreters and therapist should have basic knowledge of each other’s trade in order to cooperate effectively.
