This workshop examines the research showing that truly fabricated child maltreatment allegations are rare. Participants learn to distinguish fabricated claims from suggestive questioning and coerced recantations, and to avoid premature conclusions that undermine investigations.

This session follows survivor Melanie’s journey through the CAC and court process, showing how forensic interviewing and MDT support helped her find her voice and begin healing. Drawing on two decades of recovery and advocacy, she offers a firsthand perspective on the lasting impact of coordinated, survivor-centered practice.

This session examines how legal, medical, psychological, and survivor-centered perspectives intersect in child abuse cases and how effective MDT collaboration drives successful outcomes. Through cross-disciplinary discussion and case examples, participants learn to use medical evidence, expert testimony, and coordinated communication to support survivors and strengthen prosecution.

This workshop explores how sexual trauma can impact the body long after abuse, often beyond conscious awareness. Through Melanie’s story and Dr. Saar’s clinical insight, participants examine the mind–body connection, non-linear healing, and the vital role of trauma-informed medical care in survivor recovery.

This workshop uses survivor-advocate Melanie’s story to show how sexual trauma can manifest physically years later, including pelvic pain and dysfunction. Participants explore the non-linear nature of healing and the critical role of trauma-informed medical care in a survivor’s path to recovery.

This session follows survivor Melanie Barton’s case from disclosure through trial and long-term impact, presented in conversation with forensic psychologist Dr. Timothy Saar. Together, they examine prosecution missteps, the effects of trial on victims, effective testimony preparation, and post-trial support.

This workshop focuses on presenting pediatric sexual assault exams—especially “normal” findings—as powerful corroboration in child sexual abuse trials. Participants learn to prepare and use medical experts to clearly explain anatomy, exam results, and penetration elements in ways juries understand.

Children are more likely to disclose and less likely to recant when they have a safe adult—but that role sometimes falls to the MDT itself. Using a rural incest case study, this session examines how professionals can step into that role through coordinated advocacy, caregiver education, and strategies that reduce recantation and strengthen outcomes.

This training focuses on how CPS and law enforcement can strengthen child protection through clear communication, defined roles, and strategic collaboration. Participants gain practical strategies for navigating case barriers and maintaining effective MDT coordination—even when one agency closes its case—so safety and investigative goals remain aligned.

When a child discloses abuse, premature or poorly framed questions can compromise both the child and the case. This session offers forensic-interview–informed guidance on when and how to gather minimal facts while protecting the child, preserving evidence, and strengthening MDT coordination.

Adult narratives can protect the truth—or quietly distort it—in child abuse cases. This session examines Guardians, Gaslighters, and the Gullible, equipping participants to spot bias, challenge misleading narratives, and keep the child’s voice central to the investigation.

This two-day, courtroom-based simulation course equips forensic interviewers and prosecutors to present and defend testimony in child abuse cases. Participants practice examinations, anticipate defense strategies, and refine coordinated trial approaches for introducing forensic interviews and child statements into evidence.

CaseReady MDT delivers realistic, scenario-based mock exercises in a low‑stakes setting—designed to sharpen investigative, prosecutorial, and multidisciplinary coordination skills. Each simulation is tailored to your jurisdiction's needs, ensuring relevance and impact.

This workshop, hosted in a game show format by a former prosecutor and a forensic psychologist, equips attendees to address and refute defenses frequently encountered in child abuse cases. Participants will gain insights into identifying and addressing common defenses in child sex trafficking, online sexual exploitation, and child sexual abuse, and explore practical countermeasures tailored for MDT members.

Build courtroom confidence and credibility with a workshop tailored for MDT members—especially law enforcement, social services, and forensic interviewers. You’ll learn practical strategies for cross-examination, avoid common testimony pitfalls, and sharpen clear, effective communication with judges and juries.

Despite the presence of corroborating evidence in every child sexual abuse case, child protection professionals often miss the full potential of this vital component. This workshop taught by a former prosecutor equips attendees to maximize various underutilized avenues of corroboration, focusing on forensic interviews, internet of things (IoT) devices, numerous other forms of digital evidence, and tools for practitioners.

Cases involving youth with problematic sexual behavior are tragically common for prosecutors, forensic interviewers, and other MDT members. However, addressing these cases effectively presents complex challenges and considerations. This workshop, taught by a former prosecutor, offers relevant research and tactics for appropriate intervention and prosecution.

Darkest Before Dawn cuts through the unrelenting challenges of child abuse work—online exploitation, AI-driven threats, strained systems—to show what’s actually shifting and why hope is warranted. It delivers grounded strategies, systemic clarity, and practical steps to move child advocacy from perpetual crisis toward lasting impact.

Religious or spiritual themes are often weaponized by perpetrators to justify the abuse of children, and are invoked to avoid accountability and consolidate power within faith communities. This workshop provides best practices, recent trends, and practical tips and corroboration strategies for MDTs to navigate these issues.