What is a common practice for mental health professionals regarding interpreters before therapy sessions?

A common practice for mental health professionals is to brief the interpreter before therapy sessions. This involves providing the interpreter with key information about the session's purpose, the relevant terminology, and any specific nuances that are important for accurate interpretation. This preparation helps ensure that the interpreter understands the context and can effectively facilitate communication between the therapist and the patient, which is crucial for effective therapy.

Having this briefing is vital in maintaining confidentiality and ensuring that the interpreter is aware of the therapeutic boundaries and the nature of the session. It allows the interpreter to be well-prepared to translate not only the words but also the feelings and intentions behind them, which can significantly affect the quality of the interaction and the therapeutic outcome.

The other options, while they may have some relevance in different contexts, do not directly address the critical preparatory steps that enhance the effectiveness of interpreter use in mental health settings. These practices ensure that both the therapist and the patient can communicate openly and transparently with the help of the interpreter.