Child & Family Evaluation
I have assessed children for abuse and neglect for over 21 years as a forensic interviewer for both the Child Medical Evaluation (CME) and CFE programs. My 30 years experience with CME has provided me with a knowledge base which is unparalleled in our area in a CFE provider. I've interviewed over 10,000 kids!
I believe that all too often, the focus of CFE is to identify what is wrong rather than what is right with families. My strengths-based CFE both pinpoints what has and has not occurred in terms of abuse and neglect, but more importantly, clearly identifies what must occur to create optimal emotional and physical safety for the child. A solution-focused approach to CFE is used to identify and harness the strengths of each family in establishing specific recommendations. I am an optimistic person and join with the family to reach higher.
As a psychologist, I am able to provide insight into the emotional needs of each child and family and make specific diagnostic recommendations, particularly with regard to emotional abuse and neglect. My comfort and experience with being an expert witness provides a strong platform for substantiation and establishment of concrete future goals for the family.
Background & Techniques
I utilize a number of validated techniques in interviewing children and am credentialed in the use of anatomical dolls. Each child is different, as is each CFE, and I have the depth of resources to tailor each interview with an approach to fit each child.
I have a Master's Degree in Clinical Psychology and am licensed to practice in NC. I have attended numerous conferences both locally and nationally, and have taught at many conferences as well! I am a member of APSAC and adhere to all standards of practice. I have co-authored 3 pieces of research regarding the epidemiology of STDs in children and I was a member of the SAFEchild steering committee in development of a much needed Child Advocacy Center for the children of Wake County.
I have served as a instructor with the Jordan Institute, teaching the Sexual Abuse and Child Mental Health courses several years, and I collaborated in writing the manual for their sexual abuse curriculum.
That experience, coupled with my 9 years on the Wake County Multidisciplinary Team, allows me to "speak the language" of DSS and law enforcement and to be sensitive to the needs of all professionals in the investigative process.