Season 2: Forensic Interviewer Growth Continuum Episode 1: Unlocking the Secrets: A Q&A on developing forensic interviewers Forensic interviewers play a crucial role in gathering information from victims, especially when it involves vulnerable populations like children. But what does it take to become a skilled forensic interviewer? How do we develop their expertise and ensure their techniques adhere to the highest professional standards? Forensic interviewing requires a unique blend of skills, empathy, and the ability to work with the multidisciplinary team. In this episode, we offer a Q&A with the National Children’s Advocacy Center’s Director of Forensic Interview Training and Services, Linda Cordisco Steele, and explore the strategies and approaches used to develop skilled forensic interviewers, whose work can make a profound difference in the lives of children and families. Episode Transcript Show Notes: Prepare yourself for an insightful deep dive on this episode, as Christina Rouse has an engaging conversation with Linda Cordisco Steele, the Director of Forensic Interview Training and Services at the National Children’s Advocacy Center.  These experts draw from their wealth of experience to shed light on the vital role of continuous skill development, mentorship, and support for new forensic interviewers. They stress the importance of initial observation before formal training, consistent practice post-training, and the necessity of continual development skills. Christina and Linda distinguish between administrative and skills-based supervision, emphasizing the need for a safe a supportive environment for interviewers to reflect on their experiences and build resilience when their administrative supervisors lack the same forensic interviewing experience.   Our discussion goes beyond training, touching on the multidisciplinary collaboration and peer review in the development and support of interviewers, and they suggest a comprehensive approach involving facilitated discussions, feedback, and ongoing training.  Christina and Linda delve into the challenge of balancing interviewer development with high service demands, offering creative solutions for those with limited resources. The conversation closes with a call to action for those with limited resources to explore innovative solutions for interviewer support, reinforcing the idea that the development of interviewers is a continuous, lifelong learning process.  Tune in to uncover the fascinating, complex world of forensic interviewing, and gain a newfound appreciation for this crucial profession. Hit the subscribe button now!   Host:  Christina Rouse​, MSW​  Guest:  Linda Cordisco Steele, M.Ed., LPC   Links:  Contact Host:  Christina Rouse  Linda Cordisco Steele, M.Ed., LPC  The SRCAC Exchange  SRCAC Facebook  SRCAC LinkedIn  National Children’s Advocacy Center (NCAC) Mentoring and Consultation Groups for Child Forensic Interviewers  NCAC’s Consultation Group for Supervisors of Forensic Interviewers Continuing Education  National Children’s Advocacy Center  Support Programs:  Peer Review  National Children’s Alliance:  Standards for Accredited Members for CACs  Connect to your Chapter:  Midwest Region  Northeast Region  Southern Region  Western Region  Connect to your Region:  Regional Children’s Advocacy Centers    Follow SRCAC on Facebook and LinkedIn for more learning content!