What to look for in a psychiatric interpreter: CrossCurrents Summer 2004

CrossCurrents

• Language proficiency - Interpreters should be fluent in both the language they are translating from and the one they are translating to. In Ontario, interpreters should have Cultural Interpreters Language and Interpreting Skills Assessment Test (CILISAT) or Interpreter Language and Interpreting Skills Assessment Test (ILISAT) credentials.
  
• Specialized medical interpretation training - Interpreters should be trained in medical terminology and diagnosis and how to respond professionally to medical and ethical dilemmas.
  
• Mental health training - Specialized training offers familiarity with terminology, ethics, diagnosis and specifics about the mental health system and specific interpreting situations and dilemmas that may arise.
  
• Code of ethics - Interpreters should have a clear understanding of their role and the importance of confidentiality, respect, impartiality, accuracy and completeness of communicating the client's message.
  
• Cultural sensitivity - Interpreters must be culturally competent in all languages they interpret for.
  Personal skills - Interpreters are organized, tactful, empathetic and assertive.
  
  Source: www.mcis.on.ca

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