Working with interpreters: tools for clinicians conducting psychotherapy with forced immigrants

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to draw attention to the important and unique challenges that arise when using interpreters while conducting psychotherapy with forced migrants who have experienced a range of human rights abuse.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper employs a practice‐based evidence methodology that offers guidance to both clinicians and researchers.

Findings

Working with interpreters in the clinical setting is often a challenging and complex process for which mental health professionals are rarely prepared. This paper outlines key strategies to address these challenges and limitations.

Research limitations/implications

Empirically‐based research is lacking and is certainly warranted.

Practical implications

It is the responsibility of programs, training sites, supervisors, and institutions to help teach how to work with interpreters.

Originality/value

This paper addresses how to navigate the key issues that arise through the use of interpreters in a mental health setting with forced migrants, including: initiating a therapeutic relationship with an interpreter; common issues that arise around language; setting the therapeutic frame; and addressing boundaries; acknowledging the role of culture, transference, counter transference, and vicarious trauma; screening to assess competence; training to orient interpreters to clinical work with forced migrants; in vivo feedback; assessments; and an appropriate place to process their experience.

Citation

O'Hara, M. and Akinsulure‐Smith, A.M. (2011), "Working with interpreters: tools for clinicians conducting psychotherapy with forced immigrants", International Journal of Migration, Health and Social Care, Vol. 7 No. 1, pp. 33-43. https://doi.org/10.1108/17479891111176287