Today’s children are exposed to myriad types of violence including catastrophic, school, community, domestic violence, violence in the media, physical and sexual abuse, neglect and/or maltreatment. The short and long term affects of violence are often dependent on the type, the length of exposure and the age in which the child witnessed violence. Whether the violence is seen, heard or experienced, it impacts the health and sense of well-being of children and their families.
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Services Offered
Before the existence of CACs, children who had suffered abuse had to retell their stories multiple times. Repeated interviews were conducted by caregivers, DCFS investigators, State’s Attorneys, local law enforcement officers and others. Children were forced to constantly relive some of the most terrifying moments of the lives.
CACs provide forensic interviews so that children only need to tell their stories ONE TIME. Our professionally trained forensic interviewers record the interview which can then be used for the case. This allows the child to begin their healing sooner.
We also offer compassionate support services for children and non-offending care givers. CAC is a 501 (c) (3) not-for-profit organization, and a fully accredited member of the National Children’s Alliance. CAC provides all services free of charge in both English and Spanish.
Fees and Payment
All services are offered in English and Spanish and are free of charge. This is a nonprofit organization.
Services Offered To: Teens Children
Special Groups: Bilingual
Payment: Sliding Scale Pro-bono
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Qualifying for assistance from Illinois' program usually depends on the severity of your condition and financial circumstance. Read our full guide to Illinois' 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.