Frequently Asked Questions

The only agency of its kind in Montgomery County, Tree House CAC provides a coordinated, multi-disciplinary approach to the investigation, prosecution, and treatment of child abuse cases and cases where a   child has witnessed a violent crime. The Tree House’s partner agencies include Montgomery County Department of Police, DHHS Montgomery County Department of Child Welfare Services (CWS), Montgomery County State’s Attorney Office, and the Montgomery County Office of the County Attorney.

The mission of the Tree House Children’s Advocacy Center is to help break the cycle of child maltreatment and to assure that children live in a healthy safe environment where they can develop to their full potential. The highest standard of care is provided through a coordinated, timely, comprehensive, and multidisciplinary response to children who may have suffered any form of maltreatment. All of us at the Tree House believe that the cycle of child abuse can be broken and know that child abuse and neglect is preventable.

Child abuse can result from physical, emotional, or sexual harm. Children are often abused by someone that they know, love, and trust including people in positions of authority, such as teachers, coaches, church leaders, volunteer leaders, etc.

Most children do not disclose abuse immediately. There are many reasons why children might not tell:

1.    They were told to keep it a secret

2.    A threat was made

3.    They feel embarrassed, guilty, or ashamed

4.    They feel powerless to stop it

5.    They worry about what will happen

6.    They still care about the alleged offender and do not want to get them in trouble, even if they want the abuse to stop

7.    They may not understand that what was happening to them was wrong

8.    They are afraid that they might get in trouble

9.    They worry that no one will believe them.

10. They want to protect their parent/caregiver

Your acceptance and support are important to your child’s healing.

Be sensitive to your child’s needs. They will need a great deal of encouragement, reassurance, and com fort. You are the most important person to your child during this time.

REMEMBER TO:

• Stay calm.

• Listen without judgement or question.

• Acknowledge their feelings and how difficult it must be.

• Be thoughtful about what you share with family and friends.

• Protect your child from any further contact with the alleged offender.

• Never confront the alleged offender or their family.

• Surround yourself with supportive people.

• Lean on trusted adults in your life for support, not the child.

• Be mindful of your emotional reactions in front of the child.

Children Who Have Experienced Trauma May Have the Following Symptoms:

• Crying
• Sadness
• Fearfulness
• Nightmares
• Anger
• Changes in mood
• Aggressive behavior
• Changes in sleep habits
• Withdrawal from others
• Clinging to parents
• Anxiety
• Changes in school performance
• Sexually inappropriate behaviors
• Changes in appetite, eating patterns
• Bed-wetting or soiling
• Temper tantrums
• Daydreaming
• Difficulty concentrating
• Complaints of stomachaches or headaches
• Poor self-esteem
• Running away
• Self-harm, cutting
• Suicidal thoughts
• Substance abuse
• Perfectionism
• Avoidance of people, places, thoughts, or feelings

It’s also possible your child will exhibit no symptoms at all. It is important to be aware of any changes in your child’s behavior and seek professional counseling if needed.