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.

Interview Location

145 Columbus Road, Suite 100
Athens, OH 45701

Medical Assessment Location

Nationwide Children’s
Athens Close to Home Center
26 Hospital Drive, Suite 2300
Athens, OH 45701

CAC Coordinator

(740) 583-4596

CALL NOW

How the Child Advocacy Center Helps 

Forensic Interviews

Trained professionals 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 to ensure a comprehensive, child-centered response. 

Counseling & Follow-Up Support

Referrals to mental health and social services to support healing and recovery.

What to Expect at the Athens CAC

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. 

Medical Assessments 

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

  • The provider will check for any injuries, discuss overall health, and address medical concerns. 
  • No procedures are conducted without caregiver and child consent.

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.

How to Prepare Your Child for a CAC Visit 

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

CALL NOW

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 and let the professionals guide the conversation.

Listen if your child wants to talk, but do not press for details.

Reporting Child Abuse & Seeking Help

If you suspect a child is being abused or neglected, you should report it as soon as possible. If a child is in immediate danger, call 911. 

JOIN OUR

newsletter

Name
Consent

Safety Exit