Graham provides American Sign Language interpreting for Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals in every type of setting. From meetings, training seminars, presentations, and job interviews, to award shows, ceremonies, parent-teacher conferences, legal proceedings, and medical appointments… no matter the event or duration, Graham’s skilled interpreters can be there, on-site or virtually. Our team is highly responsive and committed to providing outstanding interpreting service for our Deaf customers.
Our Services
Graham offers several communication services
American Sign Language (ASL)
A natural language used by members of the Deaf community in the United States and parts of Canada. ASL, unlike PSE and SEE, is a rule- governed communication system and exhibits all of the features of language. ASL is a visual language without a written form. ASL is produced through signs, body language, movement, and facial expressions. ASL is the most commonly requested interpreting service.
Video Remote Interpreting (VRI)
Video Remote Interpreting (VRI) uses secure videoconferencing technology to provide Deaf consumers with a qualified interpreter in real-time, when an onsite interpreter is not readily available, or when individuals must communicate remotely due to other constraints.
CART Services (Communication Access Realtime Translation)
Similar to captioning, are a professional service that can be delivered on location or remotely. The National Court Reporters Association (NCRA) describes CART services as “the instant translation of the spoken word into English text using a stenotype machine, notebook computer and realtime software.” The text produced by the CART service can be displayed on an individual’s computer monitor, projected onto a screen, combined with a video presentation to appear as captions, or otherwise made available using other transmission and display systems.
Certified Deaf Interpreters (CDIs)
Deaf individuals who serve as language specialists in order to provide a perspective of communication that hearing interpreters do not inherently have. DI’s have specialized training and/or experience in the use of gesture, mime, props, drawings and other tools to enhance communication. Deaf Interpreters possess native or near-native fluency in American Sign Language and are recommended for a broad range of assignments where an interpreter who is Deaf or hard of hearing would be beneficial, such as with a client who is Deaf and also cognitively low-functioning.
Tactile Interpreting (for Deaf/Blind)
A method of communication for those who are blind and Deaf or hard of hearing. The tactile interpreter will place their hand(s) on top of or below the Deaf person’s hand(s). The interpreter will make tactile signs on the person’s hand so that they can feel and understand what’s being said. Tactile interpreters communicate the conversation as well as offering a visual description of the speaker’s facial features, body language, and the environment, providing their client with the same access and experience as other attendees.
Pidgin Signed English (PSE)
Also referred to as contact signing, was developed through a mixing of ASL and English. This type of signing, like ASL, has no written form. This variety of signing arises from contact between sign language and an oral language. It is common in signing communities that are exposed to hearing communities.
