Frequently Asked Questions
What can I expect at Dearing House?
Usually when you come to Dearing House, you will have already met either a Law Enforcement Officer (LE) or a Department of Human Services (DHS) caseworker, who have arranged for a forensic interview of your child. Our interviewers are trained to speak with children regarding concerns of abuse or neglect and are very kind and gentle. These interviews are designed to maximize the information gained, while minimizing contamination of the information and minimizing the trauma that is sometimes associated with the investigative process.
During your child’s interview, Dearing House staff will meet with you to:
- Explain details about the services of the Center
- Give you educational brochures to better understand the abuse
- Help guide you and your family to the path of healing
- Always be available to answer questions and concerns
- Help you set up a medical exam or therapeutic assessment
My child is coming to Dearing House for a forensic interview. What should I tell him or her?
Explain to your child that he or she is going to a place where children can talk to a person who can help with what has happened. Do not tell your child that she is going to the Center to play or to meet a special friend. Be truthful, but be brief. Do not suggest to your child what he or she is to say and do not coach or rehearse your child ahead of time. It is also very important that you not offer any bribes or rewards to your child for telling. Encourage your child to be truthful and honest with the person to whom he or she is going to speak.
Can I watch my child’s interview?
Parents and caregivers are not allowed in the interview or observation rooms during the interview. A law enforcement agency and/or child welfare cases worker will discuss the interview with you after the interview and answer your questions.
How long does the interview last?
The length of the interview depends on the child and nature of the allegations and can range from ten minutes to two hours. The average length of time an interview takes is 40-60 minutes.
Does doing a forensic interview prevent my child from having to go to court?
The Forensic Interview is the first step in a complex investigation involving law enforcement, child welfare and prosecution. The information gathered during the investigation will determine next steps in the process, and there are many factors and laws which must be considered when a child has to go to court. However, if a child is involved in court, staff at Dearing House and the courthouse will work with you and the child to support and prepare them. In many situations, having a voice in the court can help child feel valued and respected and helps them heal. Dearing House is focused on the needs of the child above all else and will support you for as long as needed.
Healing Starts Here at The Dearing House
The Dearing House in Ponca City provides a safe, supportive environment for children who have experienced abuse. Our team is dedicated to helping every child heal, recover, and thrive. Guided by our vision: to end the effects of abuse suffered by every child who comes through our doors. We offer compassionate care, advocacy, and resources to empower young survivors and their families.