Clinical Work With Limited English Proficiency Clients: A Phenomenological Exploration

Because of an increasing number of immigrants to the United States, many clinicians are faced with challenges and opportunities presented in working with clients through language interpreters. This article describes a phenomenological investigation focused on the processes related to therapy with limited English proficiency (LEP) clients through interpreters. The focus of the study was on clinicians' perceptions regarding professional and personal factors influencing services with LEP individuals, as well as contextual aspects of this work. In addition to highlighting specific characteristics and training needed for clinicians and interpreters who work with LEP clients, the readers will also learn about systemic changes that could improve the provision of mental health care to these clients.