The Role and Influence of the Interpreter in Therapeutic and Interviewing Contexts When Working with Refugees

Abstract: Working with refugees in psychotherapeutic and clinical settings often necessitates the use of an interpreter, who becomes a key mediator not only in communication but also in the therapeutic process itself. Research shows that the presence of an interpreter is not neutral – they take on various roles and can significantly influence both the development of the therapeutic alliance and the overall dynamics of the therapeutic relationship. At the same time, participation in these processes can affect the interpreter’s own mental well-being. This narrative review analyzes and synthesizes findings from scholarly publications on the role and influence of interpreters in therapeutic and interviewing work with refugees. Methods used include analysis and synthesis, desk research, and the comparative method, taking into account the complexity of the topic and the need for an interdisciplinary approach in defining the scope and content of key concepts. The results include the updating of the conceptual framework, the identification of relevant terms, and their systematization. The article’s contribution is theoretical, methodological, and practical-applied, with a specific focus on interpreter work in a therapeutic context with refugees. Keywords: communication, interpreter, refugees, therapeutic process, vicarious trauma.