Visiting the Children’s Advocacy Center

Where is the Children’s Advocacy Center (CAC) located?

3450 Third Street, Building 2, Suite 300, San Francisco CA 94124
(415) 694-5840 or after hours: (415) 206-8386

How should I prepare my child for a visit to the CAC?

You can explain to your child that this is a place where children come to talk to someone about what may have happened to them. Children should be instructed to tell the truth and should be told that it is safe to talk to the interviewer. Parents are encouraged to explain to their children that they might have a medical check-up by a medical provider.

Will my child require counseling from this experience?

After the interview, the team will sit down with a safe parent or caregiver and discuss appropriate mental health referrals.

Do I need to bring anything with me to the appointment?

No, you don’t need to bring anything. However, it’s helpful to know your insurance, and information about your medical care provider so that the team is able to refer to appropriate mental health and follow up for primary care.

Can I stop in or do I need an appointment?

The CAC is by appointment only. Appointments are attainted by referral from another organization or agency. Forensic interview referrals can be initiated by the San Francisco Police Department or by Children and Family Services. The forensic medical exams are requested by the San Francisco Police Department, Children and Family Services, or medical provider in the community.

How long will a forensic interview take?

The length of the interview is determined by the needs of the child. On average an interview will last about 30-60 minutes depending upon the child’s age and development.

Who will conduct the forensic interview?

Your child will be interviewed by a trained Forensic Interviewer in the language requested.

Can I watch my child’s interview?

Only the forensic interviewer and the child are allowed in the interview room. This ensures that the interview will be objective and non-threatening. Additionally, only members of the multidisciplinary team — such as police, district attorney, child protective services — are allowed in the observation room. After the interview is over team members meet with a safe parent or caregiver to explain the process and discuss next steps.

What can I do to help my child through this process?

• Be understanding. This experience is like no other. It may bring out reactions and behaviors that leave both of you feeling angry, uncertain, or out of control.
• Be patient. For a time, the child may feel unsafe and insecure in the world. As you gain resources and information, you can help to restore a sense of safety.
• Be loving. Spend time with the child, doing things that they enjoy, without any pressure. Reassure them of your love and respect.
• Keep it simple. For a time, you and the child may find it difficult to concentrate. Even simple things may be hard to remember. Do not make any major life changes or introduce unnecessary challenges.
• Keep it real. Whatever you and the child are feeling is normal and understandable. Help the child understand what to expect as their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors change over time.

Does the CAC charge a fee?

No. Additionally, families may qualify for the Victim’s Compensation Program.

How can I help keep my child safe in the future?

Be willing to talk about anything. As a trusted adult, establish open and honest communication with the child. Create a relationship where they feel safe sharing real-life situations with you. Let them know that they can always come to you for help, without fear of judgment. Talk with the child directly about the risks and dangers in both the real world and online.