Child Protect is the children’s advocacy center for Montgomery County, Alabama.
When there are allegations of abuse, neglect, or trauma, Child Protect works hand in hand with law enforcement, the Department of Human Resources (DHR), and Office of the District Attorney. This partnership ensures the child and non-offending caregivers receive the services they need, in a child-friendly environment.
Everything we provide is free. Child Protect is a 501c(3) non-profit. Funding for direct services comes from grants, fundraisers, corporate partners, and private donors.
How Children Come to Us
Children come to Child Protect through the Alabama Department of Human Resources (DHR) and law enforcement. While individuals cannot refer directly to Child Protect, report child abuse and neglect allegations to DHR or law enforcement to coordinate a forensic interview with a Child Protect professional. Children are accompanied by a non-offending caregiver and/or DHR caseworker.
Forensic Interviews
A forensic interview is a single, recorded conversation between a child and a professional trained in a supportive, child-centered approach. The investigators involved in the case watch from another room so the child only has to speak to one person. Some children need more than one session, and for them we offer extended forensic interviews across multiple visits.
Counseling
We provide free, confidential counseling for children ages 3 to 18 who have been seen at our agency. Counselors are trained in the trauma informed counseling approach, ensuring the child receives personalized care. In addition, Child Protect counselors will work with child witnesses and non-offending caregivers to ensure they have the tools needed to care for the child and family. On average counselors will provide 12 - 18 hour-long counseling sessions, each child is different and care plans are prepared and re-evaluated based on progress. Child Protect counselors will also help children prepare for grand jury or trial testimony when a case moves forward.
Family Advocacy
The court process is long and unfamiliar. Our family advocate walks alongside caregivers and child victims through every step: explaining what comes next, coordinating with the team, and connecting families to resources available to them.