Speak The Voice in Me: Finding Life and Life-Giving Breath After Sexual Trauma
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.
Suggested Audience: All CAC & MDT members, particularly forensic interviewers and victim advocates
Full Description: Melanie will share her experience as a survivor going through the Child Advocacy Center and court process through personal pictures and descriptions, detailing the impact of the Child Advocacy Center model and forensic interview in empowering her to find her voice and break the silence for the very first time. She will highlight the deep and ongoing connection and value of her Multi-Disciplinary Team (MDT).
Melanie will discuss the journey that unfolded over the past 20 years—a path of healing, faith, and determination to use her pain for purpose and to become an advocate. This includes a look into her 10+ year career in Victim Services and Advocacy. She will break down the crucial impact of an MDT in New Hampshire. She will share the Hope and Healing she walks in now as the result of putting in the hard work as a survivor, and the crucial support and encouragement she received from fellow survivors and providers. Melanie will leave participants with a real and tangible survivor story to inspire, encourage, and empower their work. Ultimately, she provides a powerful message for all victims that hope and healing are possible.
Learning Objectives:
Gain insight into the emotional trauma and experience of survivors from a firsthand perspective.
Empower professionals working with survivors by demonstrating that the small details make a significant difference.
Appreciate the critical value of the forensic interview and the CAC model in providing empowerment and support to survivors of crime.
Speaker(s): Melanie Barton
