what makes me different? I am:

Passionate

The best ASL interpreters are passionate about what they do. The interpretation business is a people business and to do the job well, an ASL interpreter must have a passion for helping people. Every day, ASL interpreters facilitate communication between one or more parties and to do this accurately, they must be comfortable in any situation. I am that interpreter - I am passionate about what I do and I want everyone to feel comfortable with knowing that I am invested in what is at stake in their meetings and not merely a bystander. I am an up stander.

An Excellent Communicator

Communication is more than spoken, written or signed words. Body language and facial expressions communicate our thoughts and messages. Sign language interpreters must read and interpret these non-verbal forms of communication, and replicate them in form and meaning so the English speaker can understand the fullness of the message.

Being a “people person” also means that communication skills are perfected as a result of experiences. Interpreting is a highly stressful, think-on-your feet job because no two assignments are alike. The more experience an ASL interpreter has is a testament to how well they handle multiple environments. As a 20+ year practitioner in ASL interpreting, I strive to be that "people person" that is sought after for their business. I endeavor to communicate points clearly, accurately, and professionally in both languages.

Not only is communication important for the task of interpreting/transliterating, but I've also developed excellent communication skills to understand scheduling, logistics, and preference hierarchy needed for appropriately dispatching interpreters to varying assignments while utilizing varying web based platforms.

It's my goal with my communication to develop and maintain positive relationships with staff, clients and community.

Ethical

Like a spoken language interpreter, the ASL interpreter is a medium. This means they are not involved in the conversation but rather transmit what is said between speakers. The information discussed during appointments cannot be revealed outside of the appointment. Everything that is discussed must remain confidential.

The best ASL interpreters are cognizant of their role and that their actions should not interfere with the word-for-word, context or meaning of the interpretation. In addition, professional ASL interpreters are educated in HIPAA regulations. This ensures that they are mindful of personal information sharing and the privacy laws that coincide with the healthcare industry. HIPAA and the Code of Ethics set forth by the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf are put in place to protect the Deaf or Hard-of-Hearing person and the interpreter, should an issue arise.

I take all my assignments with an attitude that shows the utmost consideration for my constituents' being, confidentiality, and autonomy in accordance to my field's Professional Code of Conduct.

Experienced

Interpreters work in legal, medical, education and corporate settings. Although it can be beneficial to specialize in one area, the demand for an ASL interpreter is always present. Overall, well-rounded professional experience and training are what make an interpreter exceptional.

As your interpreter, rest assured that I have honed my skills in specialist settings like education, but I have also branched out and aimed at generalizing my competencies across a wide array of skill sets. I have a strong working knowledge of academic terminology, ASL vocabulary in order to ensure an accurate message whether you need an interpretation or a transliteration.

In addition to the practical experience, I also have an outstanding knowledge of Deaf Culture, the local Deaf Community, and have a wealth of knowledge of resources for hearing and Deaf constituents alike.