FAQs

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Intervention Services

Navigating the process of preventing or healing from abuse can feel overwhelming. Explore our most frequently asked questions and find the answers you’re looking for.

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Every child reacts differently. Your child may be physically and mentally tired after their appointment so do not be concerned if they do not want to talk at first. Your child may also seem relieved. If you have questions or concerns regarding your child’s behavior, please contact your Family Advocate.
Caregivers should not question their child about what has happened to them. If your child comes to you and wants to talk about it, listen and thank them for coming to you. If your child shares additional information, contact your Team Members to ensure any relevant information is being shared.
Your Family Advocate is able to answer questions about your child’s case and will confer with the other Team Members on your child’s case to ensure you have the most up-to-date information to best support your child.
Call 585-935-7800. A trained professional will provide the support, resources, and guidance you need to take the next step.

General

A forensic interview is a recorded interview designed to obtain an accurate account from a child when there are concerns of possible abuse or when the child has witnessed violence against another person. The interview is non-leading and is conducted in a developmentally and culturally sensitive way. It is unbiased and fact-finding.
A Family Advocate will provide support and helpful information while the interview is taking place.
Only investigators and/or CPS caseworkers can observe the forensic interview. This allows the caregivers to support the child if the case was prosecuted and protect the privacy of the child’s interview.
Yes, all forensic interviews are video, and audio recorded. One copy of the recording is maintained at The Child Advocacy Center, and a copy will be provided to investigative parties (Law Enforcement & CPS). If the case goes to court trial, the District Attorney will have access to the video, and the court can subpoena additional copies at the discretion of the presiding judge.

Forensic Interview

Professional counseling can help children and caregivers. Family Advocates can make referrals.
Often it is difficult for family members to begin the healing process. Family Advocates can discuss available services.
Let your child take the lead. Listen rather than ask questions. Don’t be concerned if your child is too physically or emotionally tired to talk more at first. Always thank your child for being brave and offer both love and support.

Family Advocacy

No child is forced to have a medical evaluation. All children have the option of having a medical examination conducted, especially if there are signs of physical injury, or if the type of abuse is unclear without an exam. Medical examinations are provided by the REACH Program.
Parents should respect the child’s decision. Some children want a supportive adult in the room, while others prefer no one to be present during the examination.
Contrary to what is shown on TV shows, most children who have experienced child sexual abuse have completely normal exams. Only about 5% of children have findings and it is usually the presence of a sexually transmitted infection. Our exams are less forensic and more to ensure that the child is healthy and so that they know their bodies are healthy.
Medical services are provided in our child-friendly examination room. Usually, a parent or guardian remains in the room with the child. The medical exam is not painful or invasive. The examination begins with the provider getting a health history from the parent or guardian. A general physical exam is done similar to a well-child visit with their primary care physician. Next is the examination of the child's genital and anal area. A special 'microscope' called a colposcope is used during this part of the exam. The colposcope has a light and magnifies the area to allow the provider to see the child's private parts more closely. The colposcope never touches the child's body and is never felt by the child. If needed photographs may be taken. Cultures may be taken during the exam; this is done with a small cotton swab and is not invasive or painful for the child. After the examination, the medical provider will meet with the family to explain the results of the medical examination and answer questions the family may have. Any questions or concerns the family has may be discussed without the child present.

Medical

Therapy offers the young person an opportunity to process what has occurred, organize feelings, and feel supported and encouraged in the process.
Trauma specific, evidenced-based therapy models approved by the National Children’s Alliance.
Yes, however, in-person sessions are preferred.
Yes, a family advocate can make a referral for additional support if needed.
If you’re working with a Family Advocate, they will connect you with appropriate resources. If you do not have a family advocate, please call our intake line at 585-935-7800.
In the coming months we will begin to offer support groups for parents and caregivers. Link to caregiver support page.

Mental Health

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