The SRCAC Exchange

The SRCAC Exchange is a podcast by and for professionals in the field of child abuse prevention and intervention. Created by the Southern Regional Children's Advocacy Center, this show covers a wide variety of topics around the CAC model, child advocacy, multidisciplinary teams, and emerging trends in the field.

S2E7: Unlocking the Secrets: A Q&A on developing forensic interviewers 08/01/2023

S2E7: Unlocking the Secrets: A Q&A on developing forensic interviewers Season 2: Forensic Interviewer Growth Continuum Episode 1: Unlocking the Secrets: A Q&A on developing forensic interviewers Forensic interviewers play a crucial role in gathering information from victims, especially when it involves vulnerable populations like children. But what does it take to become a skilled forensic interviewer? How do we develop their expertise and ensure their techniques adhere to the highest professional standards? Forensic interviewing requires a unique blend of skills, empathy, and the ability to work with the multidisciplinary team. In this episode, we offer a Q&A with the National Children’s Advocacy Center’s Director of Forensic Interview Training and Services, Linda Cordisco Steele, and explore the strategies and approaches used to develop skilled forensic interviewers, whose work can make a profound difference in the lives of children and families. Show Notes: Prepare yourself for an insightful deep dive on this episode, as Christina Rouse has an engaging conversation with Linda Cordisco Steele, the Director of Forensic Interview Training and Services at the National Children’s Advocacy Center. These experts draw from their wealth of experience to shed light on the vital role of continuous skill development, mentorship, and support for new forensic interviewers. They stress the importance of initial observation before formal training, consistent practice post-training, and the necessity of continual development skills. Christina and Linda distinguish between administrative and skills-based supervision, emphasizing the need for a safe a supportive environment for interviewers to reflect on their experiences and build resilience when their administrative supervisors lack the same forensic interviewing experience. Our discussion goes beyond training, touching on the multidisciplinary collaboration and peer review in the development and support of interviewers, and they suggest a comprehensive approach involving facilitated discussions, feedback, and ongoing training. Christina and Linda delve into the challenge of balancing interviewer development with high service demands, offering creative solutions for those with limited resources. The conversation closes with a call to action for those with limited resources to explore innovative solutions for interviewer support, reinforcing the idea that the development of interviewers is a continuous, lifelong learning process. Tune in to uncover the fascinating, complex world of forensic interviewing, and gain a newfound appreciation for this crucial profession. Hit the subscribe button now! Host: Christina Rouse, MSW Guest: Linda Cordisco Steele, M.Ed., LPC Links: Contact Host: Support Programs: National Children’s Alliance: Connect to your Chapter: Connect to your Region: Follow SRCAC on and for more learning content! /episode/index/show/thesrcacexchange/id/27628827

S2E6: Building Resilience: Empowering forensic interviewers for sustainable success 08/01/2023

S2E6: Building Resilience: Empowering forensic interviewers for sustainable success Season 2: Forensic Interviewer Growth Continuum Episode 6: Building Resilience: Empowering forensic interviewers for sustainable success As forensic interviewers bear witness to the harrowing narratives of children who have experienced trauma, these stories can have profound effects on the well-being of interviewers. The cumulative toll of this work can contribute to many facets of secondary traumatic stress. In this episode, we will explore the impact of this work on forensic interviewers and shed light on the crucial role supervisors play in supporting their well-being. Discover how supervisors can be champions of retention, creating environments that prioritize well-being and equip forensic interviewers with the tools to cultivate their resilience. Show Notes: Step into the complex world of forensic interviewing in this insightful conversation between Christina Rouse and Lisa Conradi, Executive Director of the Chadwick Center. In this episode, they discuss the challenging roles forensic interviewers play in child abuse investigations, providing healing and support to victims while acting as witnesses for significant legal proceedings. This demanding role comes with both physical and emotional burdens, but the interviewers’ resilience and deep-seated concern for the well-being of children and families keep them going. We’ll also explore the profound personal impact on these forensic interviewers. From personal life intrusions and heightened safety awareness to emotional exhaustion, the demanding nature of their work leaves deep imprints. However, through organizational support, open conversations, self-care, and finding fulfillment in their vital work, they navigate these hurdles. This conversation also highlights leadership strategies, support mechanisms, and useful resources for addressing secondary traumatic stress among interviewers. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the child welfare system, trauma-informed care, and the resilience of those working on the frontlines. Hit the subscribe button now! Host: Christina Rouse, MSW Guest: Lisa Conradi, Psy.D. Quote: “Resilience represents a constellation of characteristics that protect individuals from the potential negative effects of stressors.” – Ivan Robertson Links: Contact Host: Contact Guest: Other Resources: Follow SRCAC on and for more learning content! /episode/index/show/thesrcacexchange/id/27628791

S2E5: Nurturing Growth: Mentorship and supervision in forensic interviewing 08/01/2023

S2E5: Nurturing Growth: Mentorship and supervision in forensic interviewing Season 2: Forensic Interviewer Growth Continuum Episode 5: Nurturing Growth: Mentorship and supervision in forensic interviewing In the realm of forensic interviewing, mentorship and supervision are not mere luxuries—they are indispensable pillars of growth and development. A mentor’s steady guidance and a supervisor’s watchful eye can make all the difference in developing interviewers. In this episode, we will discuss the possibilities of what mentorship and supervision can look like at your CAC. Through check-ins, constructive feedback, opportunities for self-reflection, and continuous learning opportunities, we acknowledge the significance of these relationships in shaping the future of forensic interviewing. Show Notes: In this episode, host Christina Rouse is joined by guests Kelly Bober and Lydia Johnson Grady to discuss the critical role of mentorship and supervision in the field of forensic interviewing. Kelly is the Executive Director of the ChildSafe Center-CAC and Lydia is the Program Manager for MDT Development at SRCAC. Drawing form their extensive experience in the field, they delve into the nuances of these two roles, highlighting the importance of guidance and support for interviewers. They also share personal stories about their own experiences with mentorship, emphasizing the profound impact it had on their professional development. The conversation further explores the current state of mentorship and supervision in the field, stressing the need for a balance between productivity and ongoing professional development. The discussion then shifts to practical aspects of implementing mentorship and supervision in Child Advocacy Centers (CACs). Lydia and Kelly offer insights on how to create a conducive environment for mentorship, emphasizing the need for dedicated time, purposeful sessions, and mentors who are not only skilled but also enjoy teaching. They also touch upon the role of peer review in supervision, viewing it as a valuable tool that complements but does not replace mentorship or supervision. They also discuss the challenges of learning from inappropriate sources, such as team members who are not well-versed in the discipline. Christina ends the episode with a powerful quote from J. Loren Norris, noting the importance of seeking guidance in the field of forensic interviewing. This episode promises to be a deep dive into the nuances of mentorship and supervision, offering valuable insights for both new and experienced professionals in the field. Hit the subscribe button now! Host: Christina Rouse Guests: Kelly Bober Lydia Johnson Grady Quote: “If you cannot see where you are going, ask someone who has been there before.” -J. Loren Norris Links: Contact Host: Connect to Guests: Follow SRCAC on and for more learning content! /episode/index/show/thesrcacexchange/id/27628743

S2E4: Unleashing Potential: Exploring cutting-edge programming for forensic interviewer skill enhancement 08/01/2023

S2E4: Unleashing Potential: Exploring cutting-edge programming for forensic interviewer skill enhancement Season 2: Forensic Interviewer Growth Continuum Episode 4: Unleashing Potential: Exploring cutting-edge programming for forensic interviewer skill enhancement In a world where forensic interviewers are yearning to enhance their skills, building innovative programs is necessary. These programs equip forensic interviewers with the tools they need to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of their work. In this episode, we are featuring two remarkable guests who have revolutionized the landscape of forensic interviewing in their states. Join us as we dive into a captivating discussion with these trailblazers, uncovering the inspiration behind their programs and the transformative impact they’ve had on forensic interviewer skill development. Show Notes: On this episode, join Christina Rouse and her guests, Josh Bissell and Kristina Taylor-Porter, as they share their experiences in developing innovative programming for forensic interviewers in Children’s Advocacy Centers (CAC). Josh is the Program Director for Children’s Advocacy Centers of Michigan and Kristina is a Board Member and Education Committee Chair, Consultant, and Contract Forensic Interviewer at Children’s Advocacy Centers of Pennsylvania. Today, they discuss the importance of networking, support, and mentorship for interviewers, especially in rural areas. Kristina and Josh highlight the challenges faced with programming in Pennsylvania and Michigan and the initiatives implemented to address them, including peer review sessions and personalized coaching. They emphasize the significance of creating a strong professional network and providing ongoing development opportunities for interviewers. The conversation further explores the value of networking at the organizational level, collaboration among CAC directors, and the benefits of monthly forensic interviewer support circles. They discuss the importance of recognizing the emotional toll of the work and the development of resources to address bias and cultural sensitivity. Kristina shares insights from the FI Preceptorship Program in Pennsylvania, which pairs new interviewers with seasoned mentors for support and growth. Joshua emphasizes the need to understand interviewers’ needs and provides guidance on developing programming that goes beyond technical skills. The episode concludes with a reflection on the long-term impact of investing in the growth and support of forensic interviewers for the benefit of children and families. Don’t miss this captivating episode as Christina, Josh, and Kristina share their expertise, ignite innovation, and inspire collaboration among forensic interviewers in the field. Hit the subscribe button now! Host: Christina Rouse Guests: Josh Bissell Kristina Taylor-Porter Quote: “The true meaning of life is to plant trees, under whose shade you do not expect to sit.” -Nelson Henderson Links: Contact Host: Contact Guests: Follow SRCAC on and for more learning content! /episode/index/show/thesrcacexchange/id/27628674

S2E3: Strength in Unity: The crucial role of MDT and forensic interviewer alignment 08/01/2023

S2E3: Strength in Unity: The crucial role of MDT and forensic interviewer alignment Season 2: Forensic Interviewer Growth Continuum Episode 3: Strength in Unity: The crucial role of MDT and forensic interviewer alignment Oftentimes a case is referred to the Children’s Advocacy Center (CAC) without formal structure or policies in place to support the alignment between the multidisciplinary team (MDT) investigators and the forensic interview. How the forensic interviewer and MDT investigators collaborate is imperative to ensure a positive experience for the child and family. In this episode, we will discuss how your CAC can achieve alignment from the forensic interview referral all the way through MDT case completion. Show Notes: Get ready for an eye-opening episode as host Christina Rouse, Tony DeVincenzo, and Greg Flett dive into the crucial topic of alignment between multidisciplinary teams (MDTs) and forensic interviewers in child abuse investigations. Tony emphasizes the power of shared goals, understanding tasks, and a unified vision within the team, while Greg compares alignment to working from a blueprint with everyone on the same page. They highlight the need for intentional onboarding of new team members and the transfer of knowledge between forensic interviewers and investigators. They discuss the significant impact of alignment on engagement and trust with families, as well as the importance of effective information sharing within the multidisciplinary team. The conversation also explores practical strategies for MDT investigators to align with the forensic interview process. Building relationships, establishing a foundation of connection, and enhancing communication and trust among team members are emphasized. They address the challenges posed by COVID-19 and suggest approaches to reconnect and strengthen teamwork. Training team members on effective observation and support during the forensic interview is discussed, along with the value of cross-education and skill-building within the team. They highlight the uniqueness of each case and child, emphasizing the value of team members’ diverse skills and experiences. The episode concludes with highlighting the long-term benefits of alignment, improved information gathering, and a smoother experience for children and families involved. Stay tuned for an insightful conversation and hit the subscribe button now! Host: Christina Rouse Guests: Tony DeVincenzo Greg Flett Links: Contact Host: Contact Guests: Follow SRCAC on and for more learning content! /episode/index/show/thesrcacexchange/id/27628590

S2E2: Unveiling the NCAC Pathways Model: Building deeper understanding of forensic interviewer training 08/01/2023

S2E2: Unveiling the NCAC Pathways Model: Building deeper understanding of forensic interviewer training Season 2: Forensic Interviewer Growth Continuum Episode 2: Unveiling the NCAC Pathways Model: Building deeper understanding of forensic interviewer training Forensic interviewers have a responsibility to stay up to date with best practices to guarantee that they are providing the best forensic interview possible. They can do this by participating in relevant and ongoing training. This spans from their first core training to advanced, specialized topics and everything in-between. In this episode, we will explore the National Children’s Advocacy Center new PATHWAYS approach to developing forensic interviewers, answering; What is PATHWAYS, how will it shift mindset in the field about training, and share some key takeaways for supervisors of forensic interviewers. Show Notes: In today’s insightful episode, we’re joined by Christina Rouse and a distinguished team of trainers from the National Children’s Advocacy Center (NCAC) - Andra Chamberlin, Kim Madden, and Linda Cordisco Steele. The NCAC has an esteemed history, training over 200,000 child abuse professionals since 1985, and they are now developing a revolutionary approach to forensic interviewer training. Recognizing a need to bridge the gap between basic and advanced interviewing skills, they’re introducing a new training model called “Pathways.” This model aims to improve integration of basic skills, preparing interviewers for more complex, topic-specific situations, and caters to different learning styles and levels of experience. In their discussion, Andra, Kim, and Linda underline three critical skills for effective interviewing: the skillful use of a continuum of questions, providing social support, and exercising critical thinking. These skills are key in eliciting narrative responses from children, supporting their unique needs, and guiding the direction of the interview. But Pathways doesn’t stop there; it also tackles challenges faced by both new and experienced interviewers, emphasizing skill development, case-specific training, and collaboration with multidisciplinary teams. Andra previews their upcoming ‘Beyond the Basics’ curriculum, Kim explores the vital role of collaboration within investigative teams, and Linda stresses the importance of supportive supervision for the professional growth and wellbeing of interviewers. Stay tuned for an illuminating conversation about the future of this vital profession. Hit the subscribe button now! Host: Christina Rouse Guests: Andra Chamberlin, MA Kim Madden, MEd, LCMHC Linda Cordisco Steele, MEd, LPC Quote: “It is just not possible to “re-wire” our brains and change long-standing habits through one-week of instruction and a short episode of practice.”-Linda Cordisco Steele Blog Links: Contact Host: Connect with the NCAC Trainers: National Children’s Advocacy Center Trainings: Follow SRCAC on and for more learning content! /episode/index/show/thesrcacexchange/id/27628500

S2E1: Building Strong Foundations: The importance of onboarding forensic interviewers 07/31/2023

S2E1: Building Strong Foundations: The importance of onboarding forensic interviewers Season 2: Forensic Interviewer Growth Continuum Episode 1: Building Strong Foundations: The importance of onboarding forensic interviewers Forensic Interviewing has advanced drastically since its development in the 1980s and continues to evolve every day. We recognize that effective onboarding for forensic interviewers is more than just a checklist - it's a transformative process that shapes the trajectory of forensic interviewers' careers. In this episode, we explore the impact of having a comprehensive and thoughtful onboarding process, so that organizations and professionals can establish a culture of excellence, nurturing the next generation of forensic interviewers. Show Notes: In the first episode of Season 2 of The SRCAC Exchange, Christina Rouse, Program Manager for CAC Development at the Southern Regional Children’s Advocacy Center, is joined by experts Liz Ghilardi, Heather Stewart, and Julie Kenniston to discuss the criticality of proper onboarding for forensic interviewers. They stress the movement towards professionalism in the field and the necessity for a comprehensive onboarding process to prepare interviewers for their roles. Key onboarding components are highlighted, including observation, practice, immediate feedback, learning to code interviews, and initiating cases involving child disclosures. The experts also discuss potential repercussions of inadequate onboarding, emphasize mentorship and continual improvement, and underline the importance of a peer review system and individualized coaching. Despite the challenges of time, resources, and expertise required to create an effective onboarding program, they urge new interviewers to connect with others in the field for learning and support. Each expert shares their early-career insights and their advice for CAC leaders, emphasizing the need for new interviewers to be patient with themselves and trust the process. Hit the subscribe button now! Host: Christina Rouse, MSW Guests: Liz Ghilardi, MSW, LCSW Heather Stewart Julie Kenniston, MSW, LISW Links: Connect to your Chapter: Connect to your Region: Contact Host: Contact Guests: Follow SRCAC on and for more learning content! /episode/index/show/thesrcacexchange/id/27614187

S1E1: Conversations on  PSB with the Experts - Jane Silovsky 01/30/2023

S1E2: Conversations on PSB with the Experts - Michelle Miller 01/30/2023

S1E2: Conversations on PSB with the Experts - Michelle Miller Season 1: It Takes A Podcast: Conversations on PSB with the Experts Episode 2: Michelle Miller Jimmy Widdifield Jr. hosts a conversation with Michelle Miller, Director of Mental Health Programs at the National Children’s Alliance. Miller discusses why effectively treating children with problematic sexual behavior is so critical, the specific challenges around providing this treatment, changing perceptions in this field, and current resources developed by NCA on this topic. Miller also talks about the future goals and hopes of her continued work in this area. Michelle Miller, PhD, LCSW, LCPC, is the Director for Mental Health Programs at the National Children’s Alliance. She has over 25 years’ experience working in the child welfare field and 18 years’ experience providing mental health care and clinical supervision to mental health practitioners, in addition to training and implementation of evidence-based practices and treatments. Miller specializes in providing CFTSI and TF-CBT and has been instrumental in the Mental Health Initiatives at NCA since 2016. Resources: PSB Whitepaper: “Children with Problematic Sexual Behavior: Recommendations for the MDT and CAC Process” PSB Training Series from NCA: PSB Webinars from NCA: PSB-centered Community on NCA Engage: Episode Transcript: Credits: Music credits: "Airport Lounge" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License This podcast is funded through a grant from the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, Office of Justice Programs, U.S. Department of Justice. Neither the U.S. Department of Justice nor any of its components, operate, control, are responsible for, or necessarily endorse, this podcast (including, without limitation, its content, technical infrastructure, and policies, and any services or tools provided). /episode/index/show/thesrcacexchange/id/25739163

S1E3: Conversations on PSB with the Experts - Carrie Jenkins and Julia Grimm 01/30/2023

S1E3: Conversations on PSB with the Experts - Carrie Jenkins and Julia Grimm Season 1: It Takes A Podcast: Conversations on PSB with the Experts Episode 3: Carrie Jenkins and Julia Grimm Jimmy Widdifield Jr. hosts a conversation with Carrie Jenkins and Julia Grimm of the Dee Norton Children’s Advocacy Center in Charleston. This conversation focuses on the catalyst for the Dee Norton CAC to address the issue of PSB, the MDT approach to the program that they have developed, the various therapeutic options for children with PSB and their families, the barriers and successes that they have experienced, and how handling these cases is different with this program versus prior to its development. Carrie Jenkins and Julia Grimm of the Dee Norton Children’s Advocacy Center in Charleston, South Caroline, developed a program within the CAC focusing on treating not only children who initiate PSB but also the impacted children and their families. The Dee Norton CAC was the first agency outside of Oklahoma to offer all three PSB-CBT programs. Additionally, Jenkins and Grimm are consultants with the National Center on the Sexual Behavior of Youth Training and Technical Assistance Program, providing training on the school-age and adolescent PSB-CBT models. Resources: PSB Whitepaper: “Children with Problematic Sexual Behavior: Recommendations for the MDT and CAC Process” National Center on the Sexual Behavior of Youth: Episode Transcript: Credits: Music credits: "Airport Lounge" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License This podcast is funded through a grant from the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, Office of Justice Programs, U.S. Department of Justice. Neither the U.S. Department of Justice nor any of its components, operate, control, are responsible for, or necessarily endorse, this podcast (including, without limitation, its content, technical infrastructure, and policies, and any services or tools provided). /episode/index/show/thesrcacexchange/id/25739223

S1E4: Conversations on PSB with the Experts - Paula Condol 01/30/2023

S1E5: Conversations on PSB with the Experts - Matthew Roberts 01/30/2023

S1E6: Conversations on PSB with the Experts - Julie Donelon 01/30/2023

S1E6: Conversations on PSB with the Experts - Julie Donelon Season 1: It Takes A Podcast: Conversations on PSB with the Experts Episode 6: Julie Donelon Jimmy Widdifield Jr. hosts a conversation with Julie Donelon, President and CEO of MOCSA (Metropolitan Organization to Counter Sexual Assault) in Kansas City, Missouri. In this episode, Donelon talks about her background as a child abuse and neglect investigator and forensic interviewer and what the impetus was for her to identify and get children with PSB referred into the system. She discusses utilizing her existing relationships with community partners to develop an effective response once a child is referred and witnessing firsthand the overwhelming benefits to treating children with PSB and their families as opposed to adjudicating these cases in family courts. Donelson also talks about how a change in state statute changed the way these cases were reported and how agencies responded. Julie Donelon, MSW, is the current President and CEO of the Metropolitan Organization to Counter Sexual Assault (MOCSA) in Kansas City, Missouri. Donelon was instrumental in MOCSA obtaining a grant through OJJDP to provide education and training around PSB to mandated reporters, Child Protective Services, and MDTs throughout the state of Missouri. She has more than 20 years experience in the field of child abuse and sexual violence, including a background in social work and experience as a Forensic Interviewer at the Child Protection Center CAC in Kansas City. Resources: PSB Whitepaper: “Children with Problematic Sexual Behavior: Recommendations for the MDT and CAC Process” MOCSA: Episode Transcript: Credits: Music credits: "Airport Lounge" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License This podcast is funded through a grant from the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, Office of Justice Programs, U.S. Department of Justice. Neither the U.S. Department of Justice nor any of its components, operate, control, are responsible for, or necessarily endorse, this podcast (including, without limitation, its content, technical infrastructure, and policies, and any services or tools provided). /episode/index/show/thesrcacexchange/id/25739424

Episode 3: Perspectives from the Field: The Role of Team Facilitator 04/26/2022

Episode 2: Rural and Resourceful 09/02/2020

Episode 1: Transitioning CAC Services During COVID-19 05/26/2020

The SRCAC Exchange

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