Sign Language Interpreter-Mediated Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (SIM-CBT): A Critical Constructivist Grounded Theory Analysis
Michael Brewerton
Are you a CBT psychotherapist who has worked with a Deaf client using a Sign Language Interpreter?
Background
Culturally Deaf people remain one of the most misunderstood and excluded communities in society. Delivering standard Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) to this community often requires careful navigation, especially when the psychotherapist is from the dominant hearing culture.
Recent research on Interpreter-Meditated Therapy within NHS England Talking Therapy services (Kunorubwe et al., 2025) and sign language interpreter-mediated psychotherapy with culturally Deaf, sign-language-using people (Gould & Clark-Howard, 2025) highlight the need for Sign Language Interpreter-Mediated Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (SIM-CBT) to undergo an empirical exploratory examination.
Aims
Led by a Trainee Clinical Psychologist whose main therapeutic base is CBT, and who is a hearing Child of Deaf Adults (CODA), this qualitative study aims to explore the unique relational, intrapersonal, and practical dynamics of SIM-CBT. We want to understand how CBT principles are adapted and navigated within the triadic therapeutic alliance, and how cross-cultural dynamics are managed. Ultimately, it is hoped your insights will help develop findings that can enhance hearing practitioners’ cultural sensitivity and improve clinical outcomes for their Deaf clients.
Who are we looking for?
We are looking for practitioners who meet the following criteria:
- Hold BABCP accreditation or equivalent OR are suitably qualified and experienced in using CBT
- Have delivered CBT to a Deaf person
- The therapy was mediated by a Sign Language Interpreter
What’s involved?
A confidential interview discussing your relevant experiences, taking place either face-to-face or online.
What are the benefits?
You would be contributing to Deaf mental health research and treatment.
• An opportunity to reflect on your practice.
• As a thank you for your time, you will receive a £25 Amazon gift voucher.
How to take part
If you are interested, please access the participant information form here.
Please feel free to share these with anyone in your network who might be interested or eligible.
If you have any questions, please contact Michael Brewerton at: E4239578@tees.ac.uk.
This project is being completed as part of the Doctorate in Clinical Psychology at Teesside University.
Expiry date: 1 September 2027
