Work-related distress among interpreters working in interpreter-mediated psychotherapy: a 1-year follow-up

Interpreter-mediated psychotherapy may pose demands on interpreters, particularly in trauma-focused settings. Empirical evidence on interpreters' perceived work-related distress and associated variables remains limited. This longitudinal exploratory study examined perceived work-related distress and posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) among interpreters participating in a trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT) workshop and explored associations with psychotherapy-related difficulties, trauma-informed interpreting competence, and involvement in trauma-focused psychotherapy.

The analytical sample comprised 68 interpreters working in psychotherapy, who contributed up to three observations each, yielding a total of 120 valid observations of perceived work-related distress. Observed outcome data were available for 51 participants at baseline (T0), 37 at 6 months (T2), and 32 at 12 months (T3). Perceived work-related distress was assessed using a single author-developed item, PTSS using the PCL-5, and process- and content-related interpreting difficulties and trauma-informed interpreting competence using author-developed self-report items. Involvement in trauma-focused psychotherapy was also assessed. Linear mixed-effects models were used.

Perceived work-related distress was moderate and did not significantly change over time. Higher PTSS (B = 0.22, SE = 0.10, p = 0.034) and greater process-related difficulties (B = 0.34, SE = 0.10, p < 0.001) were associated with higher perceived work-related distress. Content-related difficulties, trauma-informed interpreting competence, and involvement in trauma-focused psychotherapy were not significant (all p ≥ 0.137).

The findings suggest that process-related difficulties may be particularly relevant to interpreter well-being. Role agreements between therapists and interpreters, structured communication, collaboration within the therapeutic triad, and training or supervision addressing process-related challenges may represent relevant areas for practice and future research.