PROGRAMS & SERVICES
Ralston House provides a warm atmosphere that is less intimidating than a police department.
Our child-friendly environment enables children and teens to tell their stories without being re-traumatized in the process. Services are available at locations in Arvada, Lakewood and Northglenn for youth through the age of 18. Accredited by the National Children's Alliance, Ralston House adheres to best practice policies and procedures to serve the best interest of children.
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Video series about Ralston House's services -- click to watch here.
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Forensic Interview Services:
A trained, experienced forensic interviewer/therapist conducts investigative interviews of children suspected of being sexually, physically and/or emotionally abused on behalf of law enforcement (including the District Attorney's office) and human services to get detailed information that can help them in their investigations. Forensic interviews garner information from a child or teen that either corroborates or refutes allegations of abuse or a witnesses account of a crime.
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Forensic interviews are conducted at child advocacy centers to ensure a child or teen is not retraumatized in an interview and to ensure collaboration between investigative agencies.
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Medical Services:
A Child Abuse Pediatrician provides complete physical examinations, treatment, evidence collection and referral for treatment for children who are suspected of being sexually or physically abused. Medical clinics are located in Lakewood and Northglenn. Families can choose to schedule a medical exam at Ralston House
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Family/Victim Support Services:
Advocates provide crisis counseling, support, follow-up and referrals for children and families interviewed or receiving a medical exam at Ralston House throughout the investigative and court process.
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Following a forensic interview and/or sex assault medical exam at Ralston House, all children and non-offending family members are referred to specialized trauma-focused mental health services within the community. These services are designed to meet the unique needs of children who have undergone abuse and trauma. Ralston House conducts rigorous screening of therapists on the referral list and helps families schedule therapy appointments as part of the recovery and healing process.
Multi-Disciplinary Case Review Team:
Professionals in the community review crimes against children cases that may be unique or challenging. The multi-disciplinary team is made up of representatives from the following areas: Human Services, District Attorney's Office, Law Enforcement, Victim Advocacy, Mental Health, Medical Profession, Ralston House staff, County School District, and County Attorney's Office.
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Prevention/Training:
Educational outreach to civic groups, churches, parents, teachers, daycare providers, other caregivers and youth-serving organizations raises awareness about the dangers of child abuse, recognizing perpetrator behaviors and ways to help keep children safer. Ralston House also provides trainings to law enforcement, social services, district attorneys and other professionals about child sexual abuse, bringing in national trainers, webinars and experts to benefit community safety.