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- Harris County Children’s Protective Services or any local law enforcement agency refers a child alleging sexual abuse to The CAC and both entities initiate an investigation.
- A forensic interviewer specifically trained in working with sexually abused children and skilled in obtaining information necessary for law enforcement, child safety and prosecution interviews the child on videotape. This videotaped interview allows The CAC staff, law enforcement officials, the Harris County District Attorney’s Office and other key personnel to view the child’s disclosure and demeanor. It also preserves the child’s account of events to be used in possible court proceedings, is useful in confronting non-believing caretakers and reduces the trauma caused by repetitive interviews.
- The child may require a sexual assault examination and assessment at the on-site medical clinic operated physicians who have received extensive training in both pediatrics and issues relating to child sexual abuse. Through the compilation of the child’s medical history and the examination, enough evidence may be obtained for possible prosecution of the perpetrator. The medical clinic also makes available basic, preventive healthcare services to ensure the complete recovery of child victims of sexual abuse.
- A clinical social worker meets with the family to provide crisis intervention, resources for counseling and answers to questions about sexual abuse and the criminal investigation process. Without proper intervention and treatment, sexually abused children are at risk for severe psychological problems. The CAC Therapy and Psychological Services team provides children and their families with the resources necessary to heal from the effects of this trauma, and assist them in their journey to lead normal and productive lives. These professionals are all experienced in working with children and family members who have been affected by sexual abuse. An individualized treatment plan is created for each child utilizing information from not only a psychological evaluation, but also information gathered through visits with the child, his/her family, and other key individuals that interact with the child on a regular basis.
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