Using an Interpreter as Cofacilitator

Abstract

This article describes an ongoing group for Cambodian refugee elder women. The group was facilitated by a White licensed clinical social worker who spoke only English and a bilingual, Cambodian interpreter. The interpreter interpreted for the members and the English speaking facilitator but also was a cofacilitator performing assessments of group dynamics, interventions, and actively facilitated alongside the licensed clinical social worker. This model is different than how interpreters are traditionally used. Challenges, strengths, and the dynamics of this model are discussed.

KEYWORDS:

• cofacilitators
• interpreter
• group
• Cambodian
• refugee
• elderly
• bilingual
• group work