Forensic Interviews
Helping Children Find Their Voice
Forensic interviews are a critical part of the child abuse response process. At Nashville Children's Alliance, specially trained forensic interviewers provide children with a safe, supportive environment to share information about possible abuse or exposure to violence. These interviews help reduce trauma, support investigations, and connect children and families to the services they need to heal.
What is a Forensic Interview?
A forensic interview is a conversation with a child about something they may have experienced or witnessed.
The interview is led by a specially trained professional who knows how to talk with children in a safe, age-appropriate way without suggesting what they should say.
The goal is to give the child a safe place to share what happened while gathering information that can help with the investigation. The interview is also designed to reduce the number of times a child has to tell their story.
Supporting Children, Families, and Investigations
Forensic interviews are part of NCA's multidisciplinary approach to child protection. Through collaboration with child protective services, law enforcement, medical professionals, prosecutors, and mental health providers, we help ensure children receive coordinated care and support.
Services provided at no cost to families
English and Spanish support available
What to Expect
For families referred to NCA, our team works to make the experience as comfortable and supportive as possible.
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When you arrive at Nashville Children’s Alliance, you and your child will be welcomed into a safe, comfortable, and child-friendly environment. Our team will greet you, help you get settled, and walk you through what to expect during your visit.
We know that coming to NCA may feel unfamiliar or overwhelming. Our staff is here to answer questions, explain each step of the process, and make sure you and your child feel supported throughout your time with us.
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our child will meet one-on-one with a specially trained forensic interviewer in a private, child-friendly setting. The interviewer uses age-appropriate, trauma-informed techniques to help children feel comfortable and share information in their own words and at their own pace.
The interviewer remains neutral and does not suggest answers or pressure a child to talk. The interview is recorded and observed by members of the investigative team, which helps reduce the number of times a child may need to talk about their experience.
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While your child’s interview is taking place, you may meet with a Family Support Specialist. They are there to support you, answer questions, and help you understand what may happen next.
Your Family Support Specialist can connect you with helpful resources, explain available services, and provide referrals based on your family’s needs. They can also offer ongoing support and help you navigate the process following your child’s visit.
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After the interview, members of the multidisciplinary team review the information gathered and work together to determine the appropriate next steps. Depending on your family’s needs, this may include continued investigation, medical care, or other services.
Your family may also be connected with advocacy, therapy, and community resources for additional support. NCA staff will help answer questions, provide guidance, and connect your family with resources throughout the process.
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NCA’s support does not end after the forensic interview. Our team is here to help children and families throughout the process and connect them with services and resources that support healing and recovery.
Depending on your family’s needs, this may include therapy, family advocacy, crisis support, referrals to community resources, and help accessing basic needs. Our team will continue to provide guidance, answer questions, and help families feel supported as they move forward.
Report Suspected Abuse
Every adult in Tennessee is a mandated reporter. You do not need to have facts or proof to make a report, just suspicion.
Tennessee Child Abuse Hotline: 1-877-237-0004 (24/7)
Emergency: Call 911 if a child is in immediate danger
If you are unsure, report anyway. Trained professionals will assess the concern. Mandated reporters are required by law to report suspicions of abuse.