DeafLEAD is the only agency that offers interpreters for crisis situations for free.
There is an interpreter shortage, and we can provide a stop gap to aid people through a crisis situation. Ultimately, our goal is to find clients interpreters in their area who can assist them.
We partner with other organizations and agencies to help our clients nationwide. Services may vary by state, but we will try to find someone local if we cannot assist either in person or via Zoom.
Our interpreters are usually brought in at the request of an advocate, but can also be reached through any of the crisis lines or directly through DeafLEAD.
Crisis Interpreting
ASL is a direct and descriptive language. Because it’s so visual, when an interpreter is using trauma-sensitive interpreting, signs may be replaced with signs or gestures that are more neutral. The goal is to mitigate retraumatizing the survivor.
Signs that may cause a visceral reaction may be softened, while remaining true to the intent or message with an extra layer of sensitivity.
Our interpreters can provide services related to each client’s situation, on a case-by-case basis.
Training
We provide a variety of training on trauma-informed interpreting and mental health interpreting. Our team can also develop training to best suit your needs.
We provide training in-person or via Zoom, and these sessions can be used to meet continuing education requirements for certification.
Interpreters
Heidi Rich
MICS Master
heidi.rich@deaflead.com
Corinne Liedtke
MICS Advanced
corinne.liedtke@deaflead.com
Stephanie Taksel, MSW
MICS Master
stephanie.taksel@deaflead.com