In counseling, language is the primary therapeutic tool used by clinicians. In order to properly diagnose and treat a client, the client must be able to communicate what they are feeling and the symptoms they are experiencing. Clients whose second language is English may need an interpreter because many social workers or counselors only speak English. Many populations that social workers or counselors work with in therapy are not fluent in English or do not speak English and therefore require the use of an interpreter. The use of an interpreter in counseling can be considered an advantage or a disadvantage depending on the quality of the interpreter and the type of interpreting model used (Freed, 1988). This article will examine the use of an interpreter in counseling and which interpreting model is most effective. The theoretical approach used to research the use of interpreters in counseling was a culturally grounded approach. According to Marsiglia and Kulis (2009), a culturally grounded approach embraces diversity and multiculturalism and also promotes change that improves the quality of life of an individual or group (p. 102-103). Farooq and Fear (2003) argue that counseling is a social service that needs culturally competent staff and that the use of culturally competent staff improves the quality of service the client receives. Social services are not always culturally competent (Marsiglia & Kulis, 2009). A culturally grounded approach to research on the use of interpreters in counseling examines how interpreters enhance the counseling service provided to clients who speak English as a second language or who do not speak English. The use of a culturally anchored medium of paper ....... (2003). Work with interpreters. Journal of Professional Development, 9(2), 104-109. doi:10.1192/apt.01.12Freed, AO (1988). Interview with an interpreter. Social Work, 33(4), 315-319. Retrieved from EBSCO hostMarsiglia, FF and Kulis, S. (2009). Social work perspectives: social context, awareness and resilience. In TM Meenaghan & IC Colby (Eds.), Diversity, oppression, and culturally grounded social work change (87–111). Chicago, IL: Lyceum Books, Inc. Westermeyer, J. (1990). Working with an interpreter in psychiatric assessment and treatment. Journal of Nervous and Mental Disease, 178(12), (745-749). doi:10.109700005053-199012000-00003 Whitsett, M. (2008). Tips for interpreting mental health. Center for health and health care in schools [Online]. Available: http://eric.ed.gov/PDFS/ED509813.pdf; accessed 10/02/2011.