Changing the system of child abuse, children's advocacy centers bring every process that a child must go through underneath one safe, neutral roof. We provide Forensic Interview, Child Abuse Medical Examinations, Victim Advocacy, Mental Health Treatment, Multi-Disciplinary Teamwork, Coordinated Case Review Services, and Community Outreach.
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Services Offered
Child Advocacy Center (CAC)
A comfortable, private, child-focused, family-friendly setting that provides a safe space for child victims of abuse to talk about what happened. The purpose of a CAC is to provide well-coordinated, multi-disciplinary team response to allegations of child abuse or victimization, beginning with a forensic interview and a medical exam for the child. This includes case management for children and their non-offending family members or guardians.
Multi-Disciplinary Team (MDT) Case Reviews
A functioning and effective MDT approach is the foundation of a CAC. MDT is a group of professionals who represent various disciplines and work together from the point of report to ensure the most effective coordinated response possible for every child. A monthly case review session ensures mutual accountability and that the child's needs are met sensitively, effectively and in a timely manner.
Qualifying for assistance from North Carolina's program usually depends on the severity of your condition and financial circumstance. Read our full guide to North Carolina's program.
A community counseling agency is a group therapy practice that offers affordable mental health services. Most are independent non-profit agencies, state agencies, or publicly-funded agencies. A few may restrict who is eligible for services, so it is a good idea to check when you call.
Community counseling agencies are generally more affordable than other therapy providers, but how much more affordable they are will depend on whether you qualify for a discount or sliding scale fee (or if they accept your insurance). Many, but not all, have a policy that they won't turn away anyone due to inability to pay. You should ask about their fees when you first call.
Expect to talk to kind people who want to help you find the care you need. Most community agencies strive to connect you with a live person within 24 hours, if not immediately. If you're asked to hold or leave a message, don't give up; just leave a message and wait. You should hear back pretty quickly.
Most agencies try to set up an initial assessment appointment within a week (some do within 24 hours), though the waitlist to start therapy is usually longer—about a few weeks on average. If you're not eligible or if the agency is not right for you, it's usually still worth it to call or drop in, because staff are knowledgeable about local options and can often refer you to one.