(1) The ALJ must give special consideration to any request by a party for the alleged abused or neglected child to testify in order to protect the physical and emotional well being of the child. For the protection of the child, the ALJ must determine:

(a) If compelling reasons exist to have the child testify. If compelling reasons do exist, the ALJ must consider alternative methods to in-person testimony by the child. Such methods may include, but are not limited to, having the child testify by telephone or videotape; or

(b) If the rights of a party (either the appellant or DSHS) would be prejudiced by not having the child testify in person. If a party's rights would be prejudiced, the ALJ must consider other methods to hear the child's testimony without having the child directly confront the alleged perpetrator.

(2) If the child does testify at the hearing, the ALJ must include a written finding in the administrative hearing decision regarding the compelling reasons for the child's testimony and what alternative methods to in-person testimony the ALJ considered.