An interprofessional approach to training clinicians and interpreters

In psychological therapies involving speakers with limited English proficiency, communication and interaction between therapists and service users are mediated by an interpreter. As language is at the heart of talking therapy, the use of an interpreter undoubtedly changes the therapeutic encounter, bringing complexities and challenges which have the potential to impact the quality and outcome of the therapy. Drawing on experiential learning pedagogy, we propose an interprofessional approach to training interpreters and therapists to work together effectively in triadic psychological therapies. We report a study of a joint practice session in which 20 trainee interpreters and 10 trainee clinical psychologists collaborated in a simulated depression assessment interview. Data collected from questionnaires and post-practice reflections highlight the value of the interprofessional approach in promoting mutual understanding of the role of each profession and developing skills to work together. We believe that this interprofessional training approach will be conducive to fostering a better working relationship of trust between interpreting and psychology professionals and enhancing the quality of therapy provided to service users with limited English proficiency.