Title:
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Psychological therapy with Pakistani clients : a narrative analysis of experiences, roles, and relationships within the therapist, client and interpreter triad
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Chapter One: Literature Review - Introduction: This qualitative meta-synthesis aimed to explore the experiences of therapists when working with interpreters in psychotherapy. Method: Three online databases; Psychinfo, Scopus and Web of Knowledge were searched using combinations of the search terms: ‘interpreter*’ OR ‘translator*’ AND ‘psych*’ OR ‘therap*’. Nine studies were identified after an inclusion/exclusion criteria was applied. Results: Two overarching themes were identified; the impact of interpreters on communication (subthemes: inaccuracy of interpretation, interpreters’ discomfort with the material discussed, interpreters as cultural communicators), and the impact of interpreters on the therapeutic alliance (subthemes: role of the interpreter, formation of bonds). Conclusion: The findings of this meta-synthesis suggest that the presence of interpreters has significant impact on therapists’ ability to communicate and form a therapeutic alliance with clients. Recommendations made, include more training for therapists in culture and diversity awareness, and greater training for interpreters to increase their clinical understanding and professional knowledge of therapy. Chapter Two: Research Report - Introduction: The current research project aimed to explore the narratives held in the triad by Pakistani clients, their therapist and the interpreter about their experiences of psychological therapy, the roles they assumed and the relationships that formed. Method: Six participants, encompassing two triads participated in semi-structured interviews, which were analysed using a narrative voice-centred relational method of analysis. Results: Two key narrative themes emerged, centred on a Power Narrative and a Culture Narrative. Conclusion: The narrative experiences of Pakistani clients, their therapists and interpreters show that a collaborative, triadic form of therapy is incredibly complex. In particular, attitudes towards power, control and culture are predominant themes upon which the therapeutic alliance is based and balanced. The findings emphasise the need for each member being clearly aware of their roles and responsibilities within the triad. Chapter Three: Critical Appraisal - This critical appraisal provided a reflective account of the researcher’s journey throughout the development and undertaking of the research project.
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