British Sign Language Interpreters’ Experiences of Working with Psychology Professionals in Therapy Settings with Deaf Clients: An Exploratory Study.

Abstract

Deaf people experience high levels of mental health problems compared to the hearing population but face significant barriers to accessing psychological therapy. Often Deaf people’s access to therapy involves a hearing psychology professional and a sign language interpreter. This research aimed to explore British Sign Language (BSL) interpreters’ experiences of working with psychology professionals in therapy settings with Deaf clients to determine the factors that facilitate a positive working relationship. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with eight BSL interpreters who spoke about their experiences working in this context and their working relationship with psychology professionals. An interpretive phenomenological analytic approach was utilized to develop superordinate and subordinate themes from the interview data. Superordinate themes included topics such as how the two professionals work together, the importance of being on the same page as one another, the balance of being a professional and also a human in this setting and, the issues caused by gaps in psychology professionals’ knowledge. Relationships with psychology professionals are generally viewed positively by interpreters but common challenges were also discussed. The research discusses the importance of increased training for both professions and the need for more streamlined guidance focused on sign language interpreter involvement in therapy. Professionals should actively work to build relationships with one another when working together and this process should be supported by policy and organizations.

Date of Award	9 Sept 2024
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	University of Plymouth
Supervisor	Steve Minton (Director of Studies (First Supervisor))