Forensic Services – Children's Assessment Center

Forensic Services are provided to children 3 to 17-years-old who may have experienced child sexual abuse or witnessed a violent crime with the primary focus of ensuring safety and well-being during the process of an investigation.

Forensic Interview (FI) is a single session, digitally recorded, one-on-one interview with a child and specialized interviewer designed to elicit information about possible events that they may have experienced or witnessed. Interviews are conducted by neutral, specially trained, master’s level, mental health professionals in a child friendly environment. Interviewers are trained in the National Children’s Advocacy Center (NCAC) Forensic Interview Structure and utilize trauma-informed, developmentally appropriate, non-leading and non-threatening techniques.

Interviews are conducted utilizing a Multi-Disciplinary Team (MDT) approach, which involves partners viewing from an adjoining room. Information obtained is designed to help investigators understand the child’s experience and assist in either corroborating or refuting allegations of abuse. Using the CAC helps prevent the child from having to go through multiple interviews, which in turn minimizes their trauma.

Preparing Your Child for the Interview

Children tend to feel more comfortable when they have a sense of what’s going to happen. Let your child know that someone will be speaking with them about what has been reported. Encourage them to be open and honest, and let them know they have your support to share whatever they’re thinking or feeling. It is important that you do not tell them what to say and that they speak in their own words.

Extended Forensic Interviews (EFIs) and Evaluations (EAs)

Multi-session interviews conducted by professionals trained in the National Children’s Advocacy Center (NCAC) Forensic Interview Structure and the NCAC Extended Interview model. Extended interviews may be appropriate when a child does not disclose during the forensic interview, but there is evidence suggestive of victimization. Extended interviews and evaluations are for children involved in open investigations, who may experience challenges discussing information during the initial forensic interview.