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Healing Voices

What we hope to accomplish in Module 1

This module is intended to help those who interpret for survivors of torture, sexual violence, war
trauma, displacement and other major trauma. Effective interpreting requires considerable skill and
emotional stability (Akinsulure-Smith, 2007). A needs assessment report (Bambarén-Call et al.,
2012) underscores the importance of providing formal training to interpreters in this field.

Many people volunteer to interpret for
survivors of torture and war trauma
because they want to help others.
Training programs teach interpreters basic
skills, and some programs offer further
specialized training in medical, legal or
mental health interpreting. Such training
can help provide a forum for ongoing
processing of the emotional impact of
the work. Effective interpreter training
addresses potential and common mistakes
such as becoming personally involved
with the client, giving advice, simplifying
or changing the service provider’s
message and offering inappropriate
A woman who survived torture
cultural information.

However, it is clear that interpreters everywhere are hungry for information and training about how
to handle cases of “extreme” interpreting where the client has experienced deep trauma and may be
processing it during the session.

To heal from trauma and create a successful life, survivors need to build relationships of trust and
safety in their lives. Having arrived in a new country, the healing process often starts in a relationship
with a medical and/or mental health provider who may be the first person or people (along with
interpreters) to hear their stories. A number of centers have integrated services where a survivor
sees both of these types of providers.

Interpreters, by facilitating clear communication, are a part of this healing process. Those of us
working in this field recognize the absolute necessity of having a cadre of trained interpreters to be
part of the healing team that attempts to address the most painful experiences imaginable. We hope
that you will find this module to be helpful.

In this first module of the Healing Voices program, torture and trauma will be defined and you will
learn about characteristics common to many trauma survivors.

Next, we will explore some common client emotional and behavioral responses that may occur
during interpreting sessions (and that may have puzzled you).
Finally, you will receive guidance on how to conduct yourself when you encounter such responses.

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