Interpreting Services American Sign Language interpreters are highly skilled professionals. They must be able to listen to another person's words, inflections and intent while simultaneously rendering the information into a visual format using the mode of communication preferred by the Deaf consumer. The interpreter must be able to comprehend the signs, inflections and intent of the Deaf consumer and simultaneously articulate that information in appropriate spoken English. Interpreters must also understand both hearing and Deaf cultures and apply that knowledge to promote effective cross-cultural communication. Mental Health Interpreting requires more than just advanced knowledge of clinical/technical language and sign competencies due to the many diverse settings encountered by the interpreter. The temperament of the Deaf patient and various geographic language and sub-cultural differences are other factors involved in Mental Health Interpreting. The Interpreting Department at Tampa Bay Academy plays an essential role in ensuring the continuity of our resident's care, thus, we employ only the most talented and qualified interpreters. Tampa Bay Academy's interpreters are either nationally certificated by the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf or the National Association of the Deaf or have the highest level of Florida's Quality Assurance screening. The Deaf Program at Tampa Bay Academy reflects a microcosm of the larger society, as it mirrors the communication experiences Deaf children will encounter once they return to their community. This enables the children to learn appropriate techniques to reduce barriers of communication and cultural gaps between hearing and Deaf individuals. The Deaf Program at Tampa Bay Academy helps educate the Deaf residents on how to appropriately request and use an interpreter here at Tampa Bay Academy and to use this knowledge with future experiences. According to the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) all businesses are required to provide interpreters for their consumers. This includes, but is not limited to, employment interviews/staff meetings, attorneys, doctors, schools, hospitals, etc. Combining information about the ADA with the education on how to request and use an interpreter, the Deaf individual can develop a sense of independence. Even though all of our staff within the Deaf program are Deaf and hearing fluent signers, there are many situations in which interpreting services are needed. Interpreters are used for doctor appointments/nursing assessments, combined activities with the hearing and Deaf residents, elective classes with hearing teachers, IEP meetings, therapist meetings, staff meetings and many other situations which require communication between Deaf and hearing residents and staff. Tampa Bay Academy's Interpreting Department works closely with universities and community colleges and regularly offers internship opportunities. Please feel free to visit the Employment/Internship section of the Tampa Bay Academy web site to check for current opportunities.