Not sure exactly what you mean, but I think that having a spouse translate in couples' or family therapy is generally very sticky. The nefarious possibilities are probably rare, but very commonly -- and sometimes only semiconsciously -- one spouse would mistranslate, selectively translate, insert or omit nuances, or otherwise shape what the therapist hears.

Gauging is correct. Have confidence in your first impression. :-)

BTW, and off the subject: do readers know that sk8rgrl23 is also an artist and does great pet portraits? Send her a private message and she might tell you more about that.