Counseling Deaf Clients with an Interpreter

1. Ask what method of communication the deaf person prefers. You want to establish whether their primary language is English or ASL. This will help the counselor determine the use of language, such as using a direct, simple and concrete approach. It is important to use parables or examples that will help convey the message.
   
   
2. Do not make statements such as "Tell him" or "Tell her" when you are speaking through the interpreter. The sign language interpreter is the facilitator of communication. Always speak directly to the deaf person and maintain eye contact at all times.
   
   
3. Speak naturally. There is no need to exaggerate lip movements or to shout. If the client is hard of hearing, you may wish to speak louder if it is helpful to the communication process.
   
   
4. Be careful not to block or distort the view of your mouth. The deaf person may be trying to read your lips, so do not eat, drink, chew gum or put your hands to your mouth while communicating with a deaf person.
   
   
5. If the deaf person does not understand the question, try to rephrase the question in another way.
   
   
6. Beware of false impressions. Head nodding by the deaf person does not necessarily mean she understands the question. Ask the client to rephrase the question if you are unsure.
   
   
7. Don't pretend to understand the deaf person when you don't. The language barrier may cause misunderstandings and lead to wrong conclusions.
   
   
8. Be aware of where you are sitting or standing when trying to communicate with a deaf person. If there is a window, light or mirror behind you, it can make it difficult for the deaf person to speech read you or to see the interpreter clearly.
   
   
9. Allow enough room for movement so the deaf client and counselor are free to use their bodies for pantomime and gesturing.
   
   
10. Use visual aids to help the deaf client understand you.
    
    
11. Remember that English language based tests such as the MMPI may not be appropriate for the deaf client who uses ASL as their primary language.
    
    
12. Keep in mind that the interpreter has a professional and ethical obligation to interpret every comment made in the presence of the client.
    
    
13. Beware of the deaf client using your language and cultural differences to their advantage to mislead the interviewer. You may want to document some of the important statements and have the client initial the statements to clarify effective communication. This way the client cannot come back at a later date and say you misunderstood them and therefore your recommendations are skewed.
    
    
14. Use written communication when possible.