What to Expect at the Children’s Advocacy Center
Visiting the Children’s Advocacy Center can feel overwhelming at first—but our team is here to help children and families feel safe, supported, and informed every step of the way. Here’s a brief overview of what you can expect when you visit our center.
The Interview
Children who visit our center may participate in a forensic interview—a one-on-one conversation with a specially trained interviewer. This is a safe, neutral place where children can talk about their experiences. The interviewer will ask open-ended, age-appropriate questions and follow the child’s lead. The goal is to learn what happened without leading or pressuring the child.
Interviews are recorded to reduce the number of times a child has to tell their story. Members of the multidisciplinary team may observe from a separate room to ensure a coordinated response.
The Medical Exam
Children may also receive a specialized medical exam during their visit. This exam is gentle, trauma-informed, and designed to make the child feel comfortable and in control.
Medical exams are not painful and do not involve shots or invasive procedures. The purpose is to check the child’s health and well-being, and to reassure both the child and caregivers that their body is okay. Our medical provider is trained to work with children and will take time to explain everything in a way that makes sense to them.
What Is the Exam Like?
The exam is similar to a regular check-up. The doctor or nurse will:
Talk with the child and caregiver about any health concerns.
Do a head-to-toe check, just like a pediatric visit.
Only examine private areas if needed, and only with the child’s permission.
Offer reassurance and answer any questions.
Children are never forced to participate in any part of the exam. Comfort items, breaks, and a calm environment help make the process as easy as possible.
Therapy
We believe in healing the whole child—not just responding to the abuse. That’s why therapy services are a key part of what we do. We can connect families to licensed therapists who specialize in helping children recover from trauma.
Therapy gives children and their caregivers tools to manage difficult feelings, rebuild trust, and feel safe again. Our team will help you navigate your options and find support that works for your family.
