Forensic Interviews

Abuse, neglect, sexual abuse - unthinkable crimes that are extremely personal in nature and often go unreported. Children experience shame, fear, guilt and embarrassment - feelings that often prevent a report from being made or charges being filed.

Child forensic interviews are conducted by trained staff at Holly's House in a private room.  Our facility is a safe, confidential, and comfortable environment.  Representatives from law enforcement and the Department of Child Services are present to observe the interview limiting the need for children to continually revisit their experience through the repeated interviews. 

While the child is in the interview room their caregiver works with Holly's House staff on determining family needs and a safety plan if needed. 
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Who is a Forensic Interviewer?

Forensic Interviewers at Holly's House have advanced training in techniques for interviewing children of all ages.   Interviews with children proceed at the child’s pace and are conducted in a non-leading and developmentally appropriate manner.  The interviews take place in a comfortable and child-friendly room, which minimizes the child's stress and allows the interviewer to gather accurate information regarding the allegations of abuse or a crime the child has witnessed.

Interviews with adults are completed by a law enforcement officer using similar conversational techniques.  Holly's House has a separate interview room for adults which focuses on physical and emotional comfort. 

What to expect if your child is being interviewed

Learn more about what to expect as your child is being interviewed.