What To Expect During A Visit
What to Expect During Your Visit
Visiting the Tioga Child Advocacy Center (CAC) is designed to be a safe, supportive, and child-friendly experience. Our goal is to reduce stress for children and families while ensuring they receive compassionate care and coordinated services in one welcoming place.
When you arrive, you will be greeted by trained staff who will explain each step of the process and answer any questions you may have. The CAC environment is calm and welcoming, created to help children feel comfortable and supported.
A Child-Centered Approach
Children may be invited to participate in a forensic interview, which is a conversation conducted by a specially trained professional in a private, child-friendly room. The interviewer speaks with the child in an age-appropriate and non-leading way, allowing the child to share information at their own pace. Caregivers are not present during the interview, but they remain nearby and supported throughout the visit.
To reduce the need for children to repeat their experiences, a multidisciplinary team—such as child protection, law enforcement, medical, and mental health professionals—may observe the interview remotely when appropriate. This approach helps minimize trauma and ensures coordinated care.
Support for Caregivers and Families
Caregivers are supported by a family advocate during the visit. Advocates provide information, emotional support, and guidance on available services and next steps. Families may receive referrals for counseling, medical care, victim compensation, and other community resources tailored to their needs.
After the Visit
Before leaving, families will have the opportunity to ask questions and learn about follow-up services. Ongoing support and referrals are available to help children and families continue their healing journey beyond their initial visit.