Deaf Interpreter Conference 5
June 22 - 26, 2026
Workshops
Improving Outcomes:
The Impact of Deaf Interpreters in Mental Health Care
Mental Health
.15 CEU
(GS)
This workshop is designed specifically for Deaf Interpreters (DIs) working in mental health settings, focusing on strengthening their specialized skills and professional impact. Participants will explore advanced strategies for navigating complex clinical environments, including working with language dysfluency, trauma, and diverse communication needs among Deaf, DeafBlind, and marginalized Deaf clients. The session will highlight the critical role of DIs in ensuring linguistic accuracy, cultural mediation, and ethical decision-making. Through case examples and guided discussion, Deaf Interpreters will deepen their understanding of collaboration with hearing interpreters and clinical teams. Emphasis will be placed on best practices that enhance trust, reduce misdiagnosis, and improve mental health outcomes. This workshop aims to empower Deaf Interpreters with tools, confidence, and strategies to advocate for their role and elevate the quality of care within mental health systems.
Andrew Veith & Kendra Timko-Hochkeppel
Andrew Veith, CDI, holds AA in Interpreting from Delgado Community College and BA in Deaf Studies from Gallaudet University, pursuing MPA at Suffolk University. Interpreter Supervisor at WRCH. Management leader since 2006. Provides interpreting, consulting, and mentoring. Active in Deaf organizations; award-winning advocate with extensive DeafBlind, medical, and mental health interpreting experience.
Kendra Timko-Hochkeppel (she/her) is a CDI with an M.A. in Social Work from Salem State College and a B.S. in Education from Northeastern University. She works as a Deaf Interpreter at Worcester Recovery Center and Hospital (WRCH), and also provides freelance interpreting services across a range of settings, including medical, mental health, DeafBlind, legal, and conference environments. Her work is supported by extensive specialized training and strong cultural knowledge, bringing skill and experience to diverse interpreting environments.