What Is a Forensic Interview?

A forensic interview is a safe, child-centered conversation designed to help children share important information when there are concerns about abuse or neglect. These interviews are conducted by specially trained professionals in a welcoming, private setting at Ryan’s House Child Advocacy Center.

Why It Matters

Children should never have to tell their story over and over. A forensic interview allows them to speak with one caring adult who listens without judgment, while other team members observe from a separate room. This helps protect the child from further trauma and ensures the information is gathered in a way that supports both healing and justice.

Who Conducts the Interview?

Our forensic interviewers are trained in child development, trauma-informed care, and legally sound techniques. They ask open-ended questions and follow the child’s lead—never pressuring or suggesting answers.

What Families Can Expect

• A calm, child-friendly environment

• A single, respectful conversation with a trained interviewer

• Support from our multidisciplinary team, including law enforcement, child welfare, and medical professionals

• A focus on safety, dignity, and emotional well-being

Our Commitment

At Ryan’s House, we believe every child deserves to be heard, protected, and supported. Forensic interviews are just one part of our mission to provide compassionate care and coordinated services for children and families.

What is a Family Advocate?

A Family Advocate is a trained professional who supports children and their caregivers throughout the investigation and healing process. They offer emotional support, help families understand their rights, and connect them to resources like counseling, legal aid, and emergency assistance.

What kind of support do you offer families?

We provide:

• Emotional support and crisis intervention

• Help navigating the child protection and legal systems

• Referrals to mental health, medical, and social services

• Safety planning and resource coordination

• Assistance with victim compensation applications

Is there a cost for advocacy services?

No. All services provided by Ryan’s House—including family advocacy—are free of charge to children and families.

Will someone help me understand what’s happening in my child’s case?

Yes. Your Family Advocate will walk you through each step of the process, explain what to expect, and answer any questions you have. We’re here to make sure you never feel alone or confused.

Can you help with counseling or therapy?

Absolutely. We work closely with trauma-informed mental health providers and can help you find the right support for your child and family. We’ll assist with referrals and follow-up to make sure your needs are met.

What if I need help with food, housing, or other basic needs?

We understand that families in crisis often face multiple challenges. Our advocates can connect you with local resources for food, shelter, transportation, and more. Just let us know what you need—we’re here to help.

Is my information kept private?

Yes. We follow strict confidentiality protocols to protect your family’s privacy. Information is only shared with your consent or when required by law to ensure your child’s safety.

How do I contact a Family Advocate?

You can call us directly at 918-420-2273 or use our secure contact form on the Contact Us page. We’ll respond promptly and compassionately.

What is a sexual assault forensic exam?

A sexual assault forensic exam is a specialized medical evaluation performed by trained professionals to assess for signs of abuse, collect potential evidence, and ensure the child’s physical well-being. It is non-invasive and designed to feel similar to a regular check-up, with the child’s comfort and consent prioritized throughout.

Is the exam painful or scary for the child?

No. The exam is conducted in a child-friendly room with comforting decor and distraction tools. Children may have a support person present, and they can stop the exam at any time. No restraints are used, and the process is explained in age-appropriate language.

Who performs the exam?

The exam is conducted by nurse practitioners or medical professionals with specialized training in child sexual abuse evaluations. They work closely with our multidisciplinary team to ensure a coordinated and trauma-informed response.

Do parents or caregivers stay with the child during the exam?

Yes, if the child wishes. A trusted adult can remain in the room to provide comfort and support.

Is there a cost for services at Ryan’s House?

No. All services, including forensic interviews and medical exams, are provided at no cost to the child or family.

What happens after the exam?

Findings from the exam are shared with the investigative team to help determine next steps. Families receive follow-up support, referrals, and guidance from our advocates.

Why is mental health support important after abuse?

Children and families impacted by abuse often experience emotional and psychological stress. Trauma-informed therapy can help children process their experiences, build resilience, and begin healing. It also supports caregivers in understanding trauma and fostering recovery.

Do you provide counseling at Ryan’s House?

While we don’t offer therapy on-site, we work closely with trusted, trauma-informed mental health providers in the community. Our Family Advocates will help you find the right fit and guide you through the referral process.

How do I get a referral for mental health services?

Your Family Advocate will talk with you about your child’s needs and help identify appropriate providers. We’ll assist with scheduling, paperwork, and follow-up to make sure your family gets connected to care.

What types of therapy are available?

We refer families to providers who offer:

• Trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT)

• Play therapy

• EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing)

• Family therapy and caregiver support

• Other evidence-based trauma treatments

Is therapy required?

No. Therapy is always voluntary. We encourage it because it can be a powerful tool for healing, but we respect each family’s readiness and choice.

Will my insurance cover therapy?

Many providers accept Medicaid, private insurance, or offer sliding scale fees. If cost is a concern, let your advocate know—we’ll help explore options and connect you to resources like victim compensation.

How long does therapy take?

Every child is different. Some may benefit from short-term support, while others may need longer-term care. Your therapist will work with you to develop a plan that meets your child’s unique needs.

Is my child too young for therapy?

No child is too young to benefit from trauma-informed support. Therapists use age-appropriate approaches—including play and expressive therapies—to help even very young children feel safe and understood.

What if I’m not sure my child needs therapy?

That’s okay. We’re here to talk it through. Your advocate can help you explore concerns, answer questions, and connect you with professionals who can assess your child’s needs.

What is prevention education?

Prevention education teaches children, families, and communities how to recognize, respond to, and reduce the risk of abuse. It empowers individuals with knowledge and tools to stay safe and support others.

Who can participate in your prevention programs?

We offer programs for:

• Children and youth (Pre-K through high school)

• Parents and caregivers

• Educators, school staff, and youth-serving professionals

• Community groups, faith leaders, and first responders

What topics do you cover?

Our education programs include:

• Body safety and boundaries

• Recognizing safe vs. unsafe behaviors

• Internet and social media safety

• Mandated reporting and child protection laws

• Trauma-informed care and resilience building

• Supporting survivors and reducing stigma

Are your programs age-appropriate?

Yes. All content is tailored to the developmental level of each audience. For children, we use engaging, non-threatening language and activities. For adults, we provide practical tools and evidence-based strategies.

Do you offer training for professionals?

We do. Ryan’s House provides continuing education and customized workshops for professionals in education, law enforcement, healthcare, and social services. Topics include trauma-informed response, multidisciplinary collaboration, and best practices in child abuse prevention.

Can you come to our school or organization?

Yes! We offer on-site presentations, virtual trainings, and outreach events. To schedule a session, contact our Prevention & Education Coordinator through the Contact Us page or call us directly.

Is there a cost for these programs?

No. Thanks to grant funding and community support, our prevention and education services are provided free of charge.

How can I help promote prevention in my community?

You can:

• Invite us to speak at your school, church, or workplace

• Share our resources on social media

• Volunteer or donate to support outreach efforts

• Advocate for child safety policies and education in your local schools

An MDT, or Multidisciplinary Team, is a collaborative group of professionals from different fields who work together to respond to cases of child abuse and neglect. The goal is to ensure a coordinated, trauma-informed approach that prioritizes the child’s safety, well-being, and access to justice.

Who’s on an MDT?

Typical members include:

• Law Enforcement – Investigates criminal aspects of abuse

• Child Protective Services (CPS) – Assesses safety and provides protective interventions

• Prosecutors – Evaluate cases for legal action and prosecution

• Medical Professionals – Conduct forensic medical exams and assess health impacts

• Mental Health Providers – Offer trauma-informed therapy and support

• Victim Advocates – Guide families through the process and connect them to resources

• Forensic Interviewers – Conduct neutral, developmentally appropriate interviews with children

What Does an MDT Do?

• Coordinates investigations to avoid duplication and reduce trauma to the child

• Reviews cases collectively to ensure all aspects—legal, medical, emotional—are addressed

• Shares information across agencies to improve outcomes and accountability

• Develops protocols and best practices for child-centered care

Why It Matters

MDTs are the backbone of the Child Advocacy Center (CAC) model. They ensure that no child “falls through the cracks” by combining expertise and compassion across disciplines. In Oklahoma, the Ryan Luke Law made MDTs a legal requirement for serious child abuse cases—turning tragedy into systemic reform.