Child Advocacy Center

The Athens Child Advocacy Center (CAC) provides trauma-informed, child-focused services for children and teens who have experienced abuse, neglect, or exposure to violence. Our goal is to ensure that children receive support, medical care, and advocacy in a compassionate, safe environment while minimizing additional trauma.
We use a multidisciplinary team approach that brings together medical providers, law enforcement, child protective services, and victim advocates to ensure each child receives the care and resources they need.

How the Child Advocacy Center Helps

  • Forensic Interviews – Conducted by trained professionals to allow children to share their experiences in a child-friendly, non-leading, and trauma-informed manner.
  • Medical Assessments – Specialized pediatric medical exams to ensure children’s health, well-being, and safety.
  • Family Support & Advocacy – Emotional support for non-offending caregivers, crisis intervention, and resource referrals.
  • Multidisciplinary Collaboration – A team approach that includes law enforcement, medical professionals, child protective services, and mental health specialists to ensure a comprehensive, child-centered response.
  • Counseling & Follow-Up Support – Referrals to mental health and social services to support healing and recovery.
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What to Expect at the Athens CAC

(i) Forensic Interviews:

A forensic interview is a structured conversation with a trained professional that allows children to share their experiences in a safe, neutral setting.

  • The interview is recorded to minimize the need for children to repeat their story.
  • Parents and caregivers do not sit in on the interview to ensure the child feels comfortable.
  • The goal is to provide support, validation, and accurate information to assist with any investigations.

(ii) Medical Assessments:

Children may receive a specialized medical exam conducted by trained pediatric professionals at Nationwide Children’s Athens Close to Home Center.

  • Exams are designed to be reassuring, not painful.
  • The provider will check for any injuries, discuss overall health, and address medical concerns.
  • No procedures are conducted without caregiver and child consent.

(iii) Support for Families & Caregivers:

When a child experiences abuse, their caregivers often feel overwhelmed. The Athens CAC provides:

  • Supportive counseling and advocacy for non-offending caregivers.
  • Guidance on next steps, including safety planning and legal options.
  • Connections to counseling, housing, and victim support services.

(iv) How to Prepare Your Child for a CAC Visit:

  • Tell your child they will talk to someone whose job is to help keep kids safe.
  • Reassure them that they are not in trouble and they can tell the truth.
  • Avoid asking leading questions about what happened—let the professionals guide the conversation.
  • Listen if your child wants to talk, but do not press for details.

If you need help with transportation or have any concerns, call the CAC Coordinator at 740-583-4596.

Reporting Child Abuse & Seeking Help

If you suspect a child is being abused or neglected, you should report it as soon as possible.

A Community Commitment to Child Safety

The Athens Child Advocacy Center, in partnership with The Survivor Advocacy Outreach Program (SAOP) and The Center for Family Safety and Healing at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, is dedicated to ensuring the safety, health, and healing of children who have experienced abuse or trauma. CAC Coordinator: 740-583-4596