HOW WE HELP
Forensic Interviews
A conversation with a trained professional, so a child only has to tell their story once, in a room built to help them feel safe.
Our Forensic Interview Process
Each child's developmental age and cognitive, social, and emotional capacities are taken into account throughout our child-friendly forensic interview. The interview is conducted by a single forensic interviewer trained to ask non-leading questions, and it is observed by a number of our community partners, including law enforcement and child welfare. This reduces the number of times a child has to speak about their experience. Children feel safe and supported throughout their interviews at the Tree House, which are held in a neutral setting rather than a police station.
We work hard to put children at ease and to let them talk about their experiences in an understanding, non-judgmental environment. Children are never forced to talk about anything they do not want to, and they can stop the interview at any time.
A child may draw while talking, and the interviewer may use anatomical drawings or writing to help them share their experiences in a way that feels comfortable and secure.
After the interview is completed, our community partners meet with the child's parents or guardians to discuss the interview and the next stages in the investigation.
Will I be able to watch my child's interview?
No. Only professionals directly involved in the investigation are allowed to observe the interview. This reduces the stress that can be placed on a child and provides a neutral setting for both the child and the investigation.
Many of us working at the Tree House are parents just like you. We understand how being in the same room with our child might influence what the child says or does not say. If our child does not answer quickly enough, we may answer for them. Whenever exceptions to this rule have been made, it simply does not work. It is hard for us as parents to sit quietly, or not to influence the interview with a concerned look or an emotional reaction.
Parents are also not allowed in the observation room during their child's interview. Only professionals are allowed in the observation room.
All interviews at the Tree House are recorded to minimize the number of times a child has to talk about what happened. The recording is turned over to law enforcement and Child Welfare Services as part of the evidence in a potential criminal case or child welfare investigation.
Forensic interviews, like all of our services, are free of charge for families. In FY2025, the Tree House conducted 306 forensic interviews, roughly 90% of all forensic interviews conducted within the county.
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When your family is ready for ongoing support, the Tree House is here, free of charge. If you think a child needs help, we are here. Families and community partners can start a referral, and our team will guide you through w
