Intended Audience

This module is intended for child abuse professionals who participate on a multidisciplinary team (MDT) in the investigation of child abuse.

• MDTs are composed of representatives from law enforcement, child protective services, prosecution, medical providers, mental health providers, victim advocates, forensic interviewers, and Children’s Advocacy Center staff including MDT coordinators, victim advocates, and forensic interviewers.

Purpose

The purpose of the MDT Orientation Module is to assist with onboarding new MDT members.

MDT Orientation ensures its members will have a mutual understanding of how the multidisciplinary team functions, the code of conduct, what is expected of their roles, and how each member of the team contributes to the case and the best possible outcomes for children.

For MDTs that are affiliated with a Children’s Advocacy Center, per the 2023 National Children’s Alliance Standards for Accreditation, MDT Orientation is an Essential Component of the Multidisciplinary Team Standard.

This module is designed to provide an overview of the MDT approach. Your MDT will have a slightly different approach to various elements. While this module can be customized for each MDT, you should speak with your director regarding any additional items.

Learning Objectives

On completion of this module, you will be able to:

• Discuss the history of the CAC Movement and the purpose of the MDT approach to child abuse.
• Identify the roles and responsibilities of each of the core disciplines of the MDT as they relate to the investigation of child abuse.
• Review the National Children’s Alliance’s Standards for Accreditation for CACs.
• Discuss the value of the MDT response, MDT collaboration, and cultural considerations throughout the investigative process, and case review.