Services

Medical Evaluations
   A medical exam is provided to determine if any physical signs of trauma exist, to complete necessary lab work or other tests, and to provide assurance to children when they are healthy.  Pediatricians or physician extenders with highly specialized training in assessing abuse conduct the exams.

Forensic Interviews
   A verbal child is provided a one-on-one interview to obtain accurate information.  This is conducted while considering the cognitive development and emotional needs of the child by a trained interviewer.  The interview is monitored by professionals involved in the investigation.  Information is also obtained from the caregiver accompanying the child prior to the interview.

Child Advocacy
     With the child remaining the focus, support is provided during a visit to the center.  Children and their caregivers are provided informational sessions by a child life specialist to ensure they understand the process to lessen their anxiety.

Individual, Family and Group Therapy
     Specialized therapy services are provided to children and their non-offending caregivers.  Licensed therapists provide therapy for children of all ages to assist in their healing process.

Professional Training
     TEDI BEAR staff provide formal and informal training about child abuse to professionals including medical providers and residents, human service professionals, law enforcement, as well as graduate and undergraduate students.  In addition, the staff train public community groups about child abuse and neglect.

Prevention Education
     We have expanded our education and prevention efforts for parents, caregivers and professionals in the community who work with children using the "Stewards of Children" curriculum. This primary prevention training program encourages adults to be proactive in protecting children from sexual abuse.

Community Outreach
     Community-based multidisciplinary teams are being developed to serve children who are alleged victims of child sexual abuse in Eastern NC. This team approach facilitates collaboration among professionals from various disciplines within respective communities. The goal is to enhance the system response to child abuse concerns, as well as outcomes for child abuse victims in our region.

ECU Child Life Internship 
     For the Fall, Spring and Summer semesters, we are offering an Internship opportunity for ECU students that are majoring in Child Life to do a 480 hour internship with TEDI BEAR Children’s Advocacy Center and the Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Clinic.  For more information please click on this "ECU Child Life Internship Application Information" link.

ECU Child Life Practicum
    For the fall, spring, and summer semesters, we are offering a Practicum opportunity for ECU students that are majoring in Child Life enrolled in CDFR 4210 Child Life Practicum with TEDI BEAR Children’s Advocacy Center. If you are interested, please contact Katie Wood at woodk@ecu.edu.
 

Please note:  Students who complete a practicum with either TEDI BEAR or Hem/Onc will not be eligible for an internship with us.