​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​The Crisis Unit is the NJCC’s 24-hour unit. We provide a multitude of services to survivors of sexual violence and those impacted from it. Some of the services offered are:

Each member of the Crisis Unit receives the Advocacy Core Training from the Florida Council Against Sexual Violence. As sexual assault advocates, they greet survivors and their non-offending caregivers or loved ones, upon their arrival and immediately escort them to a private waiting area. Their rights and options are explained. Services available are offered and an action plan is developed with the survivor. Should they choose to move forward with a forensic medical exam, the exam is thoroughly explained, and their rights are reiterated. The advocate will accompany them throughout their visit at NJCC, including in the forensic medical exam, and will advocate for the survivor every step of the way. The advocate can also serve as a liaison between the survivor and law ​enforcement. However, the advocate is protected by FL Statute, and anything that survivor says to the advocate is confidential, unless consent is explicitly obtained from the survivor. Our advocates respond with our medical providers offsite for forensic medical exams at hospitals, mental health facilities, and detention facilities.

The Crisis Unit also oversees the 24/7 helpline that provides on the spot crisis intervention and other services, to survivors, or anyone impacted by sexual violence who are experiencing difficult moments as a result of their, or a loved one’s, victimization.

Our team of Behavior Health Clinicians also conduct forensic interviews of children and vulnerable adults who are believed to have been abused or who may have witnessed a crime. These are conducted at the request of law enforcement. The forensic interviewers receive extensive training including a 40-hour course from the National Children’s Advocacy Center. Interviewers participate in ongoing peer review and ongoing training throughout the year.

Our model follows a multidisciplinary approach, as such the interviewers collaborate with the involved investigators, our medical professionals, and the State Attorney’s Office to make the best decision for the client we are serving.