Assessments: A Family Guide
From Assessment to Healing!
Juliette’s House, a child abuse intervention center, offers a supportive environment for children who might have suffered abuse, neglect, or witnessed domestic violence. Here, children undergo medical exams and speak with forensic interviewers to ensure their health and safety. Caregivers receive guidance on supporting their child's healing journey. The center unites healthcare, mental health, law enforcement, and child protective services professionals under one roof, providing child-centered services in a comforting setting.
What should I tell my child?
"Hey there, we're going on a little trip to visit some really friendly people who are great at listening to kids and chatting about all sorts of stuff! While we're there, you'll get a quick check-up, kind of like when we visit the doctor, to make sure you're healthy and strong. And then, you'll have a chance to talk and share your stories. Remember, you haven't done anything wrong, so there's no need to worry. It's super important to tell them exactly what happened, just like you would tell me, because they want to help and make sure you're feeling good. It's always okay to say everything that's on your mind. They're there to listen and help us out!"
What is the Medical Exam?
The medical portion of the assessment is a head-to-toe physical exam with no shots. It is very similar to a well-child check. No part of the exam should be painful or uncomfortable.
Will I be present for the Medical Exam?
No. The medical provider and forensic interviewer will escort your child to the exam room. Caregivers will remain in the waiting area. This allows the child to talk about their experiences in a neutral setting.
What is a Forensic Interview?
A forensic interview is an opportunity for a child to talk about their experiences in a neutral way. It is designed to make your child feel as comfortable as possible while the interviewer gathers detailed and accurate information.
Who will talk to my child?
Your child will talk with a forensic interviewer who has special training and experience in talking with children about potentially difficult subjects. Questions are asked in a non-threatening and non-leading manner at a pace that is comfortable for your child. The interviewer never forces a child to talk to them.
Can I watch the Forensic Interview?
No. Only those people who are directly involved with the investigation are allowed to observe the interview. Children need to be able to talk in a setting that is as neutral as possible.
How long does the Interview last?
The length of the interview will be determined by your child—by their attention span, their pacing, and how much they have to say. Most interviews last approximately 30-60 minutes. Interviews may be longer with older children. Your child always has the option to take a break or end the interview at any time.
What happens after the Interview?
After the interview, your child will be escorted back to the playroom or waiting area. The assessment team will meet with you to discuss their recommendations for follow-up services. This may include counseling or referrals to other community resources. You will have an opportunity to ask questions of the assessment team, detective, and/or child protective service worker (if they are involved in the assessment).
What happens after the assessment?
When you leave Juliette’s House, you may feel tired, relieved, sad, angry, confused, or overwhelmed. All these feelings are normal, and you need to be able to express them. Please try to avoid expressing intense emotions in front of your child as they may find that frightening or worrisome. Find people in your life that you can lean on who will listen to you and support you.
The Family Support Team at Juliette’s House is also there for you. We will contact you the week after your appointment to help you navigate the next steps. Your child may also be struggling with their feelings, especially right after the assessment, but children often feel relieved after having a chance to tell their stories and be heard. Your child needs to be believed and supported. Don’t ask them questions about what they said at Juliette’s House but listen if they need to talk. Any conversations between adults about the situation or the investigation should be done when there is no possibility of the child overhearing the conversation. Those conversations can be confusing and frightening for children, even older children.
Law enforcement and DHS will keep you informed about the investigation and status of the case if there is one. You should feel free to contact them if you have additional information or questions. Juliette’s House will be happy to help you with that if you are having difficulty connecting with the detective or caseworker.