Conference Agenda

Qualitative research methodologies—ranging from narrative and phenomenological approaches to grounded theory, ethnography, and case studies—are typically structured to provide researchers with organized frameworks for inquiry. However, these methodologies are often rooted in Eurocentric and Western paradigms, reflecting the perspectives and priorities of the Global North. This raises critical questions about the cultural sensitivity and applicability of such methods in contexts shaped by different cultural values and traditions, such as those in the Global South. How can qualitative researchers creatively adapt their approaches to better integrate and respect cultural nuances? Should research observations adhere to universal norms, or should they instead be filtered through culturally specific lenses? Drawing on personal experiences as qualitative mental health researchers in the Global South, this presentation explores strategies for making qualitative mental health research more culturally sensitive and responsive, ensuring that cultural contexts are not only acknowledged but are central to the research process.

This study explores the experiences of interpreters involved in the psychological support of Ukrainian refugees and highlights the challenges they face in therapeutic settings. Additionally, it examines the role of supervision groups in providing emotional and professional support.

Methodology: Using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA), we conducted semi-structured interviews with six interpreters (five women and one man) who have worked for 1.5 to 2 years at a foundation offering psychological and psychiatric assistance to Ukrainian refugees.

Findings: Five key themes emerged: (1) Traumatic experiences—interpreters are frequently exposed to distressing narratives, increasing their risk of secondary trauma. (2) Support systems—while monthly supervision is available, it does not fully address interpreters’ specific needs. (3) Role ambiguity—therapeutic interpreting lacks clear role definitions compared to legal settings, leading to uncertainty. (4) Helping as motivation—the drive to assist others serves as both a motivational and protective factor. (5) Professional identity—interpreters struggle to balance ethical principles with the emotional demands of therapy.

Discussion: The findings highlight the need for tailored supervision groups to help interpreters process emotional challenges and strengthen their professional resilience. Additionally, they provide important, concrete recommendations for supervision groups based on interpreters' experiences.

The role of interpreters within the counselling room is an integral part of accessing therapy for clients and therapists that do not share a common language. The use of interpreters allows survivors of sex trafficking to access therapeutic services.

The purpose of this study is to look at the experiences of interpreters in a counselling setting working with survivors of sex trafficking. Therapists that work with trauma have training and supervision that enables them to work with complex trauma. There is no requirement for interpreters to have training or supervision when working in a counselling setting.

This qualitative study, using an interpretative phenomenological analysis, interviewed eight interpreters working in the UK and Ireland. For the purpose of this review, three of the eight participant’s data from the interviews were analysed.

Findings revealed four overarching group experiential themes and six subthemes. The emerging themes were as follows: ‘My world, their world, The emotional impact of the horror, My skills are needed, and, We are not machines’.

Once analysis of all eighth participants is completed, it is hoped that findings from this study will provide interpreter and trauma psychotherapy services with guidelines and support when working with complex trauma in counselling settings.