Forensic Assessments
A trained and licensed therapist interviews the child and family members to assess what has occurred and to provide recommendations on protection and treatment. The goal of this assessment is to answer the question, “What has the child and family experienced that resulted in a concern about abuse?” All of DNLCC’s therapists are trained in “Child First,” a semi-structured forensic interview protocol. When DNLCC opened in March of 1991, it was anticipated that 200 children and their families annually from Charleston, Berkeley and Dorchester Counties would be seen. Currently, DNLCC serves over 1,300 children and their families each year.

Medical Examinations
DNLCC believes that all children who have been abused or neglected must have access to a medical exam. Two of the four pediatric child abuse physicians in South Carolina, along with pediatric nurse practitioners, from the Medical University of South Carolina provide comprehensive forensic medical exams on site at DNLCC. The medical exams identify any medical issues that need attention and provide reassurance to the caregiver and the child regarding any concerns they might have about the child's body. The cost of the medical exams are provided to the patient's at no cost to the family.