Mentoring
Our Mentoring Philosophy
“Forward thinking while backwards reaching.”
Being creative in the opportunities that we offer novice interpreters so that they gain real-world experience.
Advocating for “safe spaces” for novice interpreters to learn and grow with the freedom to make mistakes and push themselves beyond their comfort zone, while continuing to ensure optimal access for the Deaf community.
Working collaboratively with mentees to customize feedback based on their preferences.
Encouraging continuous mentoring and learning, beyond certification or career goals. Challenging mentees to, one day, mentor and give back to the next generation of interpreters.
Mentoring Team
Heather Turell, Ph.D
Chief Operating Officer:
I’m Heather, and I love working with interns. I began mentoring interpreters in 2012 and started teaching in 2017. I have taught in both associate’s and bachelor’s programs. Starting a career as an interpreter is an arduous path, but with hard work and dedication, you will have a very rewarding career. I am an interpreting nerd and love to read all.the.things! My approach to mentoring is infused with research-based practices and, I hope, a very personal connection. I want interns to work on what they want to improve in their work. Interpreting is fun, and internships should be too!
Grace Cooney, MSW
Interpreting Manager:
Hi! I’m Grace, a certified hearing interpreter and mentor with over two decades of experience in the field. I enjoy working in a variety of settings ranging from government, higher education, medicine, performance, and large public events. With a Master’s of Social Work, I thrive while tackling challenging dynamics and demands found in the work. I also have a deep commitment to the Deaf Community, social justice, and access. As the Lead Mentor, I love supporting novice interpreters as they build confidence, refine their skills, and navigate the complexities of the profession. I live in Maine with my husband and our two kids.
Mentorship Opportunities
Community of Practice for Working Novice Interpreters:
- Join our 10-Week community of practice group for novice working interpreters! Starting your journey as an ASL interpreter can be exciting, challenging, and sometimes overwhelming—but you don’t have to do it alone! Our community of practice framework is designed to help novice interpreters build confidence, refine skills, and navigate the early stages of their careers in a supportive, judgment-free space. Each week, you’ll join a small group of peers virtually for engaging discussions, skill-building activities, and real-world insights into professional interpreting. We’ll cover everything from ethical decision-making and teaming strategies to managing stress, advocating for yourself, and preparing for the CASLI NIC exam. Facilitated by experienced professionals, this program fosters growth, connection, and long-term success. Whether you’re preparing for certification, seeking guidance on industry best practices, or simply looking for a community that understands your journey, this program is for you. Let’s learn, grow, and support each other—together! Please apply below. For more information, contact mentoring@joyfulsigning.com.
*For the Community of Practice for novice interpreters, please select COP, which will ensure you take the appropriate screening.
Testimonials
Sophia S., Community of Practice Participant
Signing up for the Community of Practice was truly one of the best career decisions I made post-graduation! There are so many perspectives on how to navigate this profession, but over the course of the 10 weeks it felt like I was finally given real answers. I have become confident in my ability to navigate interactions with consumers, agencies, and the Deaf community at large. My life as an interpreter has become so much easier, and I can’t put into words how grateful I am to Joyful Signing for offering this experience.
Tori Carpenter, Spring 2025 Mentee
“Interning with Joyful Signing has been an imperative experience for me. Truthfully, an Interpreter Training Program (ITP) is not enough. Ongoing education and skill development is vital, and I count myself lucky to have had Heather and Grace as mentors to help me further develop my skills. This internship was professional, while also down-to-earth. At the start of our 5 months together, we established goals and expectations for both mentor and mentee. We were able to cater a plan for me based on my areas of strength and room for improvement. I was given opportunities for both virtual and in-person work in roles of observation as well as teaming.
Outside of skills practice, we discussed ethics, a teleological approach to interpreting, resume building, and more. I could ask my mentors the hard questions, and the seemingly stupid (to me) questions, without judgment. They really understood my skill level and my needs and truly want me to succeed! I am sad my time is coming to an end, but I know with certainty the progress I have made, and I am grateful to have a continued relationship where I can ask my questions and find support with JS.”
Kailee Bates, Spring 2025 Mentee
“This internship heavily contributed to my growth as an interpreter. I was able to work with mentors to develop my skills through practice and discuss ethical scenarios that might come up in this profession. Our mentors taught us more about the research behind demand-control schema and how to decide whether freelance or staff interpreting was best for us.
Besides mentors, we worked with many interpreters in the field in person and virtually on a variety of assignments. This gave us practice teaming with other interpreters and gave us a chance to get experience in the field. Overall, I am so grateful for my time with this internship, and I feel that I have become a better interpreter because of it.”
Work With Us
At Joyful Signing, we are committed to providing excellent customer service for our customers and D/deaf and Hard-of-Hearing consumers through clear and accurate communication. If you’d like to hire our interpreters for your next event, or are interested in joining our team, use the links below to get in touch.