What to Expect
Knowing what happens next can make the day feel easier.
If your family has an appointment at Deirdre’s House, this page will help you understand where you are going, who you may meet, and what generally happens during a visit.
Every child’s situation is different, and our team will guide you through each step.
Before you arrive
See where you’re going before you arrive
Deirdre’s House is located in a converted home in Morristown. The setting is designed to feel welcoming and child-focused, not like a police station, courtroom, or hospital.
Watch our brief walkthrough to see the entrance, waiting areas, interview rooms, and other spaces your family may visit.
- A child-focused, welcoming environment
- Support for children and nonoffending caregivers
- Services available in English and Spanish
Preparing for your visit
A few things to know before you come
The professional who schedules your appointment will explain when to arrive, where to go, and whether you need to bring anything. If you have questions or need language support, let the team know before your visit whenever possible.
Talk with the person who scheduled your visit
Appointment instructions can vary. Follow the information provided by the professional or agency coordinating your visit.
Use simple, reassuring language with your child
Let your child know they are going to a safe place where they can talk with someone whose job is to listen and help. Avoid rehearsing answers or asking them to repeat what happened.
Questions are welcome
You do not need to understand every part of the process before arriving. The team will explain the visit and answer your questions.
Your visit, step by step
What generally happens during a visit
The exact process depends on your child’s needs and the circumstances of the referral, but a typical visit may include the following steps.
- 01
Your family arrives
A child or family advocate welcomes you, helps you get settled, and explains what to expect before anything begins.
- 02
The professionals prepare
The professionals involved in the case meet before the interview to review available information and coordinate the process. Your advocate remains available to support you and answer questions.
- 03
Your child meets the interviewer
A specially trained interviewer introduces themselves and brings your child to a quiet, child-focused interview room. The conversation is adapted to your child’s age and developmental needs.
- 04
The interview takes place
Your child speaks with the interviewer without the caregiver in the room. Authorized professionals involved in the case may observe from a separate room. The interview is digitally recorded to help reduce the number of times a child may need to describe what happened.
- 05
A medical exam, if needed
Our clinicians perform a child-focused medical examination in a room designed to feel safe. The exam is external and non-invasive. A child is never forced to participate and may decline any part of the exam. Most exams find no physical evidence, and that is a normal, expected result.
- 06
The team discusses next steps
After the interview, the appropriate professional explains what they can about the next steps. Your advocate can help connect your family with counseling, medical services, practical resources, and continued support when appropriate.
Not every visit includes every service. Recommendations and next steps are based on each child’s individual needs.
Support beyond the visit
Care does not end when the appointment does
Depending on your child’s needs, Deirdre’s House may help connect your family with specialized services and ongoing support.
Forensic Interviews
Child-focused interviews conducted by specially trained professionals.
Specialized Medical Services
Child-focused medical care and information when recommended.
Trauma-Focused Counseling
Evidence-based counseling designed to support healing and recovery.
Family Advocacy & Support
Information, referrals, practical assistance, and continued guidance for nonoffending caregivers.
Virtual tour
See the space before you step inside
Seeing the center in advance may help children and caregivers feel more familiar with the environment. Explore the spaces your family may encounter during a visit.
The virtual tour is not available yet.
Common questions
Questions families often ask before a visit
Still have questions about your visit?
It is okay to ask. Contact Deirdre’s House if you need help understanding an upcoming appointment, available services, or what your family can expect.