We can’t change what has already happened;
but we can change what happens next…
Children in the midst of emotional turmoil require immediate attention. They do not need to be shuttled from place to place. CAC/NEPA provides a comforting environment and brings the system to the child.
Our Approach
CAC/NEPA acts as a neutral agent and contact point for child abuse intervention. Children in the midst of emotional turmoil require immediate attention. They do not need to be shuttled from place to place. To avoid requiring a child victim to be taken from multiple agencies and offices throughout the law enforcement and child protection systems, and having to endure multiple interviews, CAC/NEPA responds to each child abuse case by bringing the system to the child. Specifically CAC/NEPA utilizes a coordinated MDIT (Multi Disciplinary investigative Team) approach that involves bringing law enforcement and child protection agency professionals involved in a case together at our center, thus putting the needs of the child victim first. Our collaborative MDIT approach results in effective, efficient and child-centered casework, between the MDIT representatives from:
- The County District Attorney’s Office
- State/Local Law Enforcement Agencies
- County Child Protective Services Agencies
- Partnering Resource and Counseling Services Agencies
CAC/NEPA’s Team including: The Executive Director, Medical Health Professionals, Forensic Interviewers, Mental Health Professionals, a Victim Advocate, and a Family Advocate
Experienced experts thoroughly assess all aspects of a child’s needs and develop an individualized plan for each child to help him or her move through the pain and confusion of disclosure. This includes medical treatment, counseling, court services and mental health services. As the CAC/NEPA children speak with a trained forensic interviewer while the team listens. The interview is videotaped to minimize the number of times they must detail their trauma which increases the accuracy of information provided. The child is then evaluated by a medical professional while the parent meets with members of the Multidisciplinary Team. This calming approach ensures children are not re-traumatized by the very system designed to protect them.