Providing resources to help support children
There’s nothing more important than making children feel safe and secure. Our pediatric child abuse and neglect specialists understand this, and their mission is to eliminate or limit the effects abuse can have on a child’s life long-term. We work in tandem with law enforcement and local community agencies to deliver the best services for children and their families.
When there are concerns about child abuse, neglect or witnessing a crime, we want to make sure we’re providing the best support we can through the entire process. To accomplish that goal, we offer:
- Safe, neutral and friendly spaces where a child can feel comfortable telling their story
- Forensic analysis, medical evaluations and in-depth interviews to gain information that can help support investigations
- Child and family support to help begin the healing process
Our services
Forensic interviews
It’s never easy to dig into child abuse, neglect and trauma, but forensic interviews may be requested by law enforcement or Child Protective Services (CPS) for additional information. A forensic interview is a structured conversation, one on one, between your child and an interviewer. All our interviewers have specialized training in interviewing children in a way that’s non-leading, developmentally appropriate and minimally traumatizing.
What to expect during the interview
The interviewer will ask your child questions and give them opportunities to talk freely about what has happened to them. This type of interviewing helps gather information that is accurate, reliable and detailed.
Law enforcement and CPS observe the interview while it’s happening, and the interview is recorded to minimize the number of times your child has to talk about what happened to them.
A parent or caregiver cannot be in the interview because it may be distracting to your child and could inadvertently affect their responses to the interviewer.
Medical evaluations
A medical evaluation for child abuse and neglect is performed by providers with specialized training and experience in this area. The medical exam checks their body for injuries and other conditions caused by child abuse and neglect, as well as for other underlying medical problems.
Most children who have been victims of abuse have normal examinations. The medical examination gives children and families the opportunity to receive reassurance that the child is healthy and discuss any medical concerns or questions.
What to expect during the exam
- If a knowledgeable caregiver is present, staff will take a medical history.
- If appropriate, your child will also have a medical interview.
- If your child wishes, you are welcome to be in the exam room to provide support during the exam.
- The medical provider will perform a complete “head-to-toe” physical exam in a child-friendly manner.
- Some physical findings may be documented using digital photography.
- The medical staff will work with your child to help them be as comfortable as possible.
- In some instances, the medical provider may order laboratory and radiology testing.
- The medical provider will review the exam with you and discuss treatment recommendations.
- The medical provider may make referrals and provide resources to support your child.
Trauma education
We offer education services for families affected by child maltreatment. Our team has unique training in understanding and counteracting the negative effects of abuse. The team plays a vital role in recovery by providing educational and caregiving support to the child and their family.
The trauma education services include:
- In-school mentorship for children
- Trust-Based Relational Intervention Caregiver Training (in-person and telehealth)
- Trauma responsive school related technical supports and advocacy
- Professional development opportunities for schools, MDT and community partners
More resources, information and ways you can help prevent child abuse in your area
Parenting tips for all ages:
If you suspect a child has been abused, report the abuse online.