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 Morristown. The setting is designed to feel welcoming and child-focused, not like a police station, courtroom, or hospital.

Watch our videos explaining how we work with children and their caregivers, and what you can expect during your visit.

What to Expect from a Medical Exam

A short explanation for caregivers about the purpose of the exam, what happens during the visit, and how the child’s comfort and choices are protected.

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 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

Your child can receive a medical exam from a specially trained pediatric abuse specialist, no matter how long ago the incident happened. The exam helps you and your child understand that their body is healthy and safe. It also gives your child an opportunity to ask questions or talk about any concerns they may have after what happened. The exam is gentle, external, and non-invasive. Your child is always in control. They will never be forced to do anything and can stop any part of the exam at any time. The exam is optional, but it is recommended for children who have disclosed abuse. If you have any questions, please ask. We are here to support you and your child.

06

The team discusses next steps

After the interview, the appropriate professional explains the next steps. Deirdre’s House can help connect your family with mental health and 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.

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.

Common Questions

Questions families often ask before a visit

Who will interview my child?

Your child will speak with a law enforcement professional who has specialized training in child-focused, developmentally appropriate forensic interviewing. The interviewer will explain their role to your child before the conversation begins.

Will the interview be recorded?

Yes. Forensic interviews are digitally recorded so authorized professionals involved in the case can review the conversation. This is intended to reduce the number of times a child may be asked to describe what happened.

Will my child have a medical examination?

If specialized medical care is recommended, the team will explain why, what it may involve, and answer your questions before moving forward.

How long will the visit take?

The length of a visit can vary depending on the child’s needs and which services are involved. The person scheduling your appointment can provide the best estimate for your family’s visit.

What should I tell my child before the appointment?

Use simple, reassuring language. You can tell your child that they are going to a safe place to meet someone whose job is to listen and help. Avoid coaching, rehearsing answers, or asking your child to repeat what happened.

What should we bring?

Follow the instructions provided when the appointment is scheduled. We recommend bringing a snack and a comfort item for your child. If you are unsure whether you need to bring identification, documents, medication information, or anything else, contact the person coordinating your visit.

What if we need support in Spanish?

Deirdre’s House provides services and support in English and Spanish. Let the team know about your family’s language needs when the appointment is scheduled whenever possible.

Is everything we say confidential?

Information is handled with care and shared only as permitted or required as part of the coordinated response and legal process. Because confidentiality may depend on the circumstances, ask your advocate or another member of the team to explain who may receive information about your child’s case.

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.

Deirdre’s House

(973) 631-5000

Monday to Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.