Our Services
Deirdre’s House brings specially trained professionals together in one safe, child-focused setting. Children and nonoffending caregivers can receive coordinated care, clear information, and ongoing support without having to navigate the process alone.
Every child’s needs are different. Our team helps families understand which services and next steps may be appropriate.
One child-focused team
Deirdre’s House is Morris County’s Child Advocacy Center. Instead of requiring children and families to visit multiple unfamiliar places, the Child Advocacy Center model brings professionals together to coordinate the response to suspected abuse or neglect.
This approach helps reduce confusion, supports informed decision-making, and keeps the child’s safety, comfort, and well-being at the center of the process.
How we help
Services are recommended and coordinated according to each child’s individual needs. Not every child or family will receive every service listed below.
For children and young people referred for an interview
A specially trained professional speaks with the child in a safe, child-focused interview room using developmentally appropriate, non-leading techniques. The interview is digitally recorded so authorized professionals involved in the case can review it.
When medical care or an assessment is recommended
Specialized, child-focused medical services can help address health concerns, answer questions, and support a child’s well-being following suspected abuse or neglect.
For children and nonoffending caregivers who need continued support
Evidence-based counseling helps children and families process traumatic experiences, strengthen coping skills, and move toward healing in a supportive environment.
For nonoffending caregivers and families
Family advocates help caregivers understand the process, identify immediate needs, access helpful resources, and remain connected to support throughout the family’s involvement with Deirdre’s House.
When a child or caregiver may need to participate in the legal process
Age-appropriate information and preparation may help children and caregivers better understand what to expect if their case involves court proceedings.
The coordinated work that happens behind the scenes
Deirdre’s House provides a setting where professionals from child protection, law enforcement, prosecution, medicine, mental health, and advocacy can share appropriate information and coordinate their response.
Beyond the appointment
Healing also depends on the opportunities and stability a family has after an appointment. Deirdre’s House has offered additional assistance to help current clients participate in community activities and manage urgent needs.
Helps current clients participate in summer educational, arts, and recreational activities.
Supports extracurricular activities and community programs throughout the year.
Provides temporary assistance for urgent family needs, which may include utilities and medical, dental, vision, or hygiene expenses.
Accessing services
Deirdre’s House is generally involved after a concern has been reported and the appropriate professionals determine that Child Advocacy Center services may be helpful. The exact referral and scheduling process can vary.
Suspected child abuse or neglect in New Jersey must be reported to the State Central Registry at 1-877-NJ-ABUSE (1-877-652-2873).
The appropriate child protection and law enforcement professionals review the information and determine the next steps.
When Deirdre’s House services are appropriate, the family is contacted with information about the appointment and what to expect.
Deirdre’s House does not receive or investigate the initial report of suspected abuse.
Common questions
This work is made possible through the support of Morris County, donors, grants, community partners, and people who believe every child deserves a safe path toward hope, healing, and justice.
