Programs & Services

Forensic Interviews

The Gingerbread House employs forensic child interviewers trained in obtaining the details necessary to conduct effective and complete investigations of child sexual and severe physical abuse cases in a non-threatening manner. Children ages 2-14 from all social, economic and ethnic backgrounds are served.

Multidisciplinary Investigations

The Gingerbread House has established a Multidisciplinary Team (MDT) approach for responding to child abuse cases. The MDT consists of members from law enforcement, the Office of Community Services, the District Attorney's Office, and medical and mental health agencies. All cases are coordinated, reviewed, and tracked by the MDT.

Mental Health Therapy Interventions

Follow-up counseling services for child victims interviewed at the Center and their non-offending caregivers are offered at the Gingerbread House by a Ph.D., Licensed Professional Counselor at no cost to the victim's family.

Family Advocacy & Supportive Services

The Gingerbread House offers referral services for child abuse victims and their families. Educational support groups for both child victims and their non-offending family members are offered year-round. Adult groups are facilitated by the Counselor and children's groups are facilitated by the Family Advocate. In addition, the Gingerbread House coordinates annual outreach programs in the local community.

Community Education & Prevention Services

The Gingerbread House coordinates local efforts in child abuse education and awareness. Services include Knowledge is Power , a body safety/sexual abuse risk-reduction program with components for children (preschool through elementary school level), school personnel and other mandated reporters, and parents. In addition, the Gingerbread House conducts numerous presentations for community organizations on topics related to child abuse.

Professional Development & Training Opportunities

The Gingerbread House provides ongoing training for members of the Multidisciplinary Team and local agencies working in the field of child abuse. Events include Spring MDT Training, Cultural Diversity workshops, Videoconferences (through partnership with local agencies), national conferences such as National Symposium on Child Abuse (Huntsville , AL) and Crimes Against Children (Dallas , TX ), and a number of other training opportunities.

For more information, contact the Gingerbread House at (318) 674-2900.