CHILD PROTECTION CENTER OF ROSS COUNTY

In Ross County, there had been a lack of local services and large gaps in the services that were available for children in Ross and surrounding who had been sexually abused. So, in 1995 the Child Protection Center was formed to ensure that Ross County and surrounding county children who had been sexually or physically abused received appropriate attention in a timely and family-friendly manner without regard for ability to pay. The Center utilizes a multi-disciplinary, multi-agency approach to care and meets the strict standards of a Children’s Advocacy Center set by the National Children’s Alliance. The clinic opened its doors in 1996 and became incorporated and tax exempt as a non-profit organization in October 1997. Since then, we have seen hundreds of children and families in the clinic for child abuse assessments. A typical assessment includes an interview and a physical examination. Closed circuit TV is used during the interview with the child so that members of the team can observe the interview without distracting the child. The physical exam consists of a complete head to toe examination. The physician utilizes specialized equipment that is non-invasive to document any evidence of abuse. ? The child therapist is available at the visit to talk with the child and caretaker. Families are more likely to continue with therapy when the therapeutic relationship has started at the clinic. At the visit, the therapist supports the caretaker as well as the child.