24/7 NJ Child Abuse Reporting Hotline:1-877-NJ-ABUSE
24/7 NJ Child Abuse Reporting Hotline:1-877-NJ-ABUSE
Our Services
Deirdre’s House brings specially trained professionals together in one safe, child-focused setting. Children and non-offending 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
Explore clear, practical information designed to help adults recognize concerns, talk about safety, and support children in everyday situations.
Forensic Interviews
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.
Specialized Medical Services
When medical care or an assessment is recommended
Specialized, child-focused medical services help assess the child’s physical health, address any concerns, and reassure them that their body is healthy and safe following suspected abuse or neglect.
Mental Health Services
For children and non-offending caregivers who need continued support
Our mental health services help children and families process traumatic experiences, strengthen coping skills, and move toward hope and healing in a safe, supportive environment.
Family Support
For non-offending caregivers and families
We help caregivers understand the process, identify immediate needs, access helpful resources, and remain connected to support throughout their family’s involvement with Deirdre’s House.
Court Education & Preparation
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.
Behind the scenes
Multidisciplinary Team Coordination
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
Deirdre’s House offers additional assistance to children and families participating in our mental health program. These client-only resources help children focus on being kids, build confidence and self-esteem, and participate in educational, recreational, and community activities. Assistance may also be available for urgent family needs.
Eligibility: These programs are available exclusively to current clients receiving mental health services through Deirdre’s House.
D.E.A.R. Camp Scholarships
Helps clients participate in summer educational, arts, and recreational activities.
S.H.I.N.E. Scholarships
Supports extracurricular activities and community programs throughout the year.
Trish Stewart Healing Fund
Provides temporary assistance for urgent family needs, which may include utilities and medical, dental, vision, or hygiene expenses.
Edna Jarmell Scholarship Program
Provides scholarships for educational opportunities to Deirdre’s House clients.
ACCESSING SERVICES
How does a family come to Deirdre’s House?
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.
01
A concern is reported
Suspected child abuse or neglect in New Jersey must be reported to the NJ Child Abuse Hotline at 1-877-NJ-ABUSE (1-877-652-2873).
02
The concern is reviewed
The appropriate child protection and law enforcement professionals review the information and determine the next steps.
03
A visit may be scheduled
When Deirdre’s House services are appropriate, the family is contacted with information about the appointment and what to expect.
Common questions
No. Every child’s situation and needs are different. The professionals involved will explain which services are recommended and what the next steps may include.
No. All services provided to children and families at Deirdre’s House are free of charge.
Yes. Deirdre’s House provides services and support in English and Spanish. Let the team know about your family’s language needs when an appointment is scheduled whenever possible.
The type and length of support depend on the needs of the child and family. The team will explain available services and help the family understand the appropriate next steps.
Contact Deirdre’s House at (973) 631-5000. Our team can answer questions about available services and an upcoming visit.
Worried about a child?
To report suspected child abuse or neglect in New Jersey, call the NJ Child Abuse Hotline at 1-877-NJ-ABUSE (1-877-652-2873), available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If a child is in immediate danger, call 911.
