Gear Parent Network

August Evening Support Group
2023-08-29 19:30 - 20:30 (America/New_York) | Go-To Meeting
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a program of Crisis & Counseling Centers, is the place where Gaining Empowerment Allows Results. G.E.A.R. is run by parents for parents providing services for parents of children with emotional and behavioral health concerns.
Through parent-to-parent sharing of experiences and knowledge, G.E.A.R. Parent Network empowers parents of children with behavioral health needs to build on their family’s strengths and to advocate for their family’s needs.

“G.E.A.R. Annual Family Picnic”
2023-08-12 10:00 - 13:00 | Tot Lot, Fish Hatchery Rd. (go to the end), Auburn
A light picnic buffet lunch will be provided and picnic tables are available. Feel free to bring your lawn chairs or blankets for additional seating; and if you have special dietary needs please do bring your own food. We will have fun activities too for both kids and adults alike! Registration is required. Parents/caregivers are responsible for watching their kids.
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a program of Crisis & Counseling Centers, is the place where Gaining Empowerment Allows Results. G.E.A.R. is run by parents for parents providing services for parents of children with emotional and behavioral health concerns.
Through parent-to-parent sharing of experiences and knowledge, G.E.A.R. Parent Network empowers parents of children with behavioral health needs to build on their family’s strengths and to advocate for their family’s needs.

“Do You Speak Teen? ‘mnE Ps dnt bleev der is a gNR8N d/c b/t em n thr teen”
2023-08-10 10:00 - 12:00 | Go-To Meeting
Communicating with teens today is more challenging than ever but not impossible! This workshop will explore modern technology and give you some new ideas to peek into your teen’s world. The framework of the 40 Developmental Assets® will also be shared. Minneapolis-based Search Institute® has identified 40 building blocks of healthy development – known as “developmental assets” – that help influence choices young people make and help them become caring and responsible adults.
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a program of Crisis & Counseling Centers, is the place where Gaining Empowerment Allows Results. G.E.A.R. is run by parents for parents providing services for parents of children with emotional and behavioral health concerns.
Through parent-to-parent sharing of experiences and knowledge, G.E.A.R. Parent Network empowers parents of children with behavioral health needs to build on their family’s strengths and to advocate for their family’s needs.

Family Fun Beach Day!
2023-08-05 10:00 - 14:00 | Morgan’s Beach Route 155, Enfield-Lincoln Rd, Enfield, Route 155, Enfield, ME, 04493, United States
Join us at Morgan’s Beach on the western shore of Cold Stream Pond. Entrance is free so join us for this fun and relaxing social event with other parents and their kids! The grounds include a sandy beach, picnic area, playground, changing rooms/bathrooms along with refreshments sold at the Trap Shack. Bring your own sunscreen, blankets, chairs, toys & towels!
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a program of Crisis & Counseling Centers, is the place where Gaining Empowerment Allows Results. G.E.A.R. is run by parents for parents providing services for parents of children with emotional and behavioral health concerns.
Through parent-to-parent sharing of experiences and knowledge, G.E.A.R. Parent Network empowers parents of children with behavioral health needs to build on their family’s strengths and to advocate for their family’s needs.

“How Difficult Can This Be? The F.A.T. City Workshop” Video Presentation by Author Rick Lavoie, M.A., M.Ed.
2023-08-03 10:00 - 12:00 | Go-To Meeting
This unique and interactive program allows participants to experience the same Frustration, Anxiety and Tension that children with learning disabilities face in their daily lives. See how teachers, social workers, psychologists, parents, and friends who have participated in Richard Lavoie’s workshop reflect upon their experience and the way it changed their approach to children who have a learning disability.
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a program of Crisis & Counseling Centers, is the place where Gaining Empowerment Allows Results. G.E.A.R. is run by parents for parents providing services for parents of children with emotional and behavioral health concerns.
Through parent-to-parent sharing of experiences and knowledge, G.E.A.R. Parent Network empowers parents of children with behavioral health needs to build on their family’s strengths and to advocate for their family’s needs.

August Wednesday Support Group
2023-08-02 13:00 - 14:30 | Go-To Meeting
occurs weekly, every Wednesday
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a program of Crisis & Counseling Centers, is the place where Gaining Empowerment Allows Results. G.E.A.R. is run by parents for parents providing services for parents of children with emotional and behavioral health concerns.
Through parent-to-parent sharing of experiences and knowledge, G.E.A.R. Parent Network empowers parents of children with behavioral health needs to build on their family’s strengths and to advocate for their family’s needs.

“What are Family Peer Specialists and how do they Support Maine Families?”
2023-08-01 16:00 - 18:00 | Coastal Recovery Community Center, 11 White Street, Rockland
The Family Peer Specialist (FPS) role has been in Maine to support families who have children/youth with special medical, emotional and behavioral health needs for over 25 years. During the past 10 years this role has quickly evolved to being one of not only providing emotional support and resource sharing to also reducing feelings of isolation by providing opportunities to learn from and support each other; build family protective factors, resiliency and strength; and practice vital parenting skills in an environment free from shame, blame and judgment. Join us to learn about the family organizations in Maine who offer you free parent peer support, the three levels of support, FPS role/credentialing and the benefits to the family and service delivery system when family peer specialists are utilized!
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a program of Crisis & Counseling Centers, is the place where Gaining Empowerment Allows Results. G.E.A.R. is run by parents for parents providing services for parents of children with emotional and behavioral health concerns.
Through parent-to-parent sharing of experiences and knowledge, G.E.A.R. Parent Network empowers parents of children with behavioral health needs to build on their family’s strengths and to advocate for their family’s needs.

July Evening Support Group
2023-07-25 19:30 - 20:30 | Go-To Meeting

“Marijuana in the New Millennium”
2023-07-18 15:00 - 17:00 | Go-To Meeting
Tara’s work is to prevent youth substance use and she supports youth-led and youth-serving programming that builds young people’s resilience and strengthens youth leadership on issues of public health, restorative practices, and social justice.
Marijuana products have significantly changed in the past 10-15 years since medical and retail products have become legal. We will discuss the way new products, trends, and issues are currently presenting, as well as the concerns and risks of marijuana use, legalization, and the impact on the health and wellness of youth, families and communities. Discussion and questions are encouraged during and after the presentation.
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a program of Crisis & Counseling Centers, is the place where Gaining Empowerment Allows Results. G.E.A.R. is run by parents for parents providing services for parents of children with emotional and behavioral health concerns.
Through parent-to-parent sharing of experiences and knowledge, G.E.A.R. Parent Network empowers parents of children with behavioral health needs to build on their family’s strengths and to advocate for their family’s needs.

“Empowering Young Adults with I/DD”
2023-07-14 10:00 - 12:00 | Go-To Meeting
Dan and Jaheim believe the youth self-advocacy movement requires parents who support their young adults in stepping into their own power, and they look forward to working with you!
Young adults with intellectual and developmental disability labels are more capable, more fulfilled, and safer when parents support their empowerment. In this workshop, parents will explore how being an ally to their young adult’s independence can not only support individual development but also the strengthen relationships. Come learn skills and resources for supported decision-making and self-advocacy!
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a program of Crisis & Counseling Centers, is the place where Gaining Empowerment Allows Results. G.E.A.R. is run by parents for parents providing services for parents of children with emotional and behavioral health concerns.
Through parent-to-parent sharing of experiences and knowledge, G.E.A.R. Parent Network empowers parents of children with behavioral health needs to build on their family’s strengths and to advocate for their family’s needs.

“Nurturing Parenting for Families in Recovery”
2023-07-11 15:30 - 17:00 | Go-To Meeting
Register online at: https://kvcap-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZcqd-yprDsoG9W2oUPOu4cXdgWARNTx_Zha or call Jenny at 207-859-2521
Held every Tuesday from 3:30–5 p.m.
If you are a parent, caregiver or working on your recovery and want to learn more about the effects of substance use on your family, parenting style, and your relationship with your child/youth, please join us for this FREE 17 week program. You will explore hands on activities, along with guided discussions to enhance your self-awareness and increase your ability to relate to your child/children in a safe and supportive environment surrounded by parents and caregivers who share similar life experiences. Join us to explore ideas and build skills; strengthen your connection with your child or youth!
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a program of Crisis & Counseling Centers, is the place where Gaining Empowerment Allows Results. G.E.A.R. is run by parents for parents providing services for parents of children with emotional and behavioral health concerns.
Through parent-to-parent sharing of experiences and knowledge, G.E.A.R. Parent Network empowers parents of children with behavioral health needs to build on their family’s strengths and to advocate for their family’s needs.

July Wednesday Support Group
2023-07-05 13:00 - 14:30 | Go-To Meeting

June Evening Support Group
2023-06-27 19:30 - 20:30 | Go-To Meeting
You are NOT Alone! Parenting and raising a child/youth is often challenging, however even more so with a child with an emotional or behavioral health concern. Join us in this safe place with no shame, blame or judgment from the comfort of your home on your tablet or smart phone and chat with other parents who share similar life experiences. If you are a parent wanting support, or a parent/caregiver of a child with behavioral, emotional, or developmental health needs, please consider joining to meet and compare notes with other parents who truly understand the journey you are on. Note: Keep in mind that if there is no support group participation within 30 minutes of start time the virtual platform will be ended.

“Positive Behavioral Supports & Tantrum Management: Self-Preservation & Success in Parenting Children with Behavioral Health Needs”
2023-06-14 10:00 - 12:00 | Go-To Meeting
Do you sometimes feel like you don’t know how to help your child? Children with behavioral health needs do not come with a manual! This workshop will offer a framework to understand the nature of your child’s behavior and methods to flexibly respond to the needs your child presents. Positive behavioral supports emphasize practical ideas about how to meet your child where they are and utilize their motivation to increase success. Understanding and using Stage of Change concepts, maximizing provider involvement, and enhancing natural supports will be emphasized to provide usable tools that can be applied in a variety of real-life situations. Join us to learn more how to manage your child’s tantrums by using positive behavioral supports!
About the G.E.A.R. Parent Network
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a program of Crisis & Counseling Centers, is the place where Gaining Empowerment Allows Results. G.E.A.R. is run by parents for parents providing services for parents of children with emotional and behavioral health concerns.
Through parent-to-parent sharing of experiences and knowledge, G.E.A.R. Parent Network empowers parents of children with behavioral health needs to build on their family’s strengths and to advocate for their family’s needs.

June Afternoon Support Group
2023-06-07 13:00 - 14:30 | Go-To Meeting
You are NOT Alone! Parenting and raising a child/youth is often challenging, however even more so with a child with an emotional or behavioral health concern. Join us in this safe place with no shame, blame or judgment from the comfort of your home on your tablet or smart phone and chat with other parents who share similar life experiences. If you are a parent wanting support, or a parent/caregiver of a child with behavioral, emotional, or developmental health needs, please consider joining to meet and compare notes with other parents who truly understand the journey you are on. Note: Keep in mind that if there is no support group participation within 30 minutes of start time the virtual platform will be ended.
Meets weekly….6/7, 6/14, 6/21 and 6/28

“What are Family Peer Specialists and how do they Support Maine Families?”
2023-06-06 10:00 - 12:00 | Go-To Meeting
The Family Peer Specialist (FPS) role has been in Maine to support families who have children/youth with special medical, emotional and behavioral health needs for over 25 years. During the past 10 years this role has quickly evolved to being one of not only providing emotional support and resource sharing to also reducing feelings of isolation by providing opportunities to learn from and support each other; build family protective factors, resiliency and strength; and practice vital parenting skills in an environment free from shame, blame and judgment. Join us to learn about the family organizations in Maine who offer you free parent peer support, the three levels of support, FPS role/credentialing and the benefits to the family and service delivery system when family peer specialists are utilized!
About the G.E.A.R. Parent Network
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a program of Crisis & Counseling Centers, is the place where Gaining Empowerment Allows Results. G.E.A.R. is run by parents for parents providing services for parents of children with emotional and behavioral health concerns.
Through parent-to-parent sharing of experiences and knowledge, G.E.A.R. Parent Network empowers parents of children with behavioral health needs to build on their family’s strengths and to advocate for their family’s needs.

“Summer Safety: Keeping it Cool, Preventing Heat Related Illness and Sun Safety for Children"
2023-06-05 18:00 - 20:00 | RSU Adult & Community Education , Bucksport High School 102 Broadway #1 and GOTO
Sunburn, heat cramps, heat stroke and skin cancer often are not thought of when you are enjoying the outdoors. Learn about the importance of keeping your children and yourself safe while having fun in the sun! Parents are welcomed in sharing their challenges and ideas how they deal with the sun protection and other summertime problems.
About the G.E.A.R. Parent Network
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a program of Crisis & Counseling Centers, is the place where Gaining Empowerment Allows Results. G.E.A.R. is run by parents for parents providing services for parents of children with emotional and behavioral health concerns.
Through parent-to-parent sharing of experiences and knowledge, G.E.A.R. Parent Network empowers parents of children with behavioral health needs to build on their family’s strengths and to advocate for their family’s needs.

“Recognizing the Signs of Suicide Risk and Navigating the System of Care”
2023-05-24 10:00 - 12:00 | Go-To Meeting
Suicide is a significant concern in Maine and nationwide, and we can do something about it. Join us in learning how to recognize early signs of potential elevated suicide risk, suicide statistics in Maine/Nationally; what risk assessments are and common terms you may hear providers use, in addition to navigating the system of care to effectively gain access to treatment and/or support that is needed. Also, we will discuss how to advocate for a person in your care when you are not satisfied with the process or outcome.
About the G.E.A.R. Parent Network
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a program of Crisis & Counseling Centers, is the place where Gaining Empowerment Allows Results. G.E.A.R. is run by parents for parents providing services for parents of children with emotional and behavioral health concerns.
Through parent-to-parent sharing of experiences and knowledge, G.E.A.R. Parent Network empowers parents of children with behavioral health needs to build on their family’s strengths and to advocate for their family’s needs.

May Evening Support Group
2023-05-23 19:30 - 20:30 | Go-To Meeting

“What is Considered Child Abuse & Neglect in Maine?”
2023-05-22 18:00 - 20:00 | RSU Adult & Community Education , Bucksport High School 102 Broadway #1 and GOTO
Our children are our future and child abuse and neglect is everybody’s business! In this workshop learn what is considered child abuse; state and national statistics; what Maine law is and how to report child abuse or neglect; the difference between “punishment” vs. “discipline”; child behavioral management examples and what are family and child protective factors; in addition to sharing stories of parenting lessons learned.
About the G.E.A.R. Parent Network
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a program of Crisis & Counseling Centers, is the place where Gaining Empowerment Allows Results. G.E.A.R. is run by parents for parents providing services for parents of children with emotional and behavioral health concerns.
Through parent-to-parent sharing of experiences and knowledge, G.E.A.R. Parent Network empowers parents of children with behavioral health needs to build on their family’s strengths and to advocate for their family’s needs.

“ACEs, Being a Trauma-Informed Parent: Linking Childhood Trauma to Long-Term Health & Social Consequence”
2023-05-17 10:00 - 12:00 | Go-To Meeting
Traumatic childhood experiences such as abuse, neglect, domestic violence, or substance abuse in the home can have long-term physical, psychological, behavioral and economic consequences. The Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) Study demonstrates the connection between childhood trauma and a wide array of physical & mental health problems. Despite the trauma in their lives, children can survive and even thrive. Protective factors, including healthy relationships with parents and caregivers, foster resilience in children and help them to overcome early adversity.
About the G.E.A.R. Parent Network
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a program of Crisis & Counseling Centers, is the place where Gaining Empowerment Allows Results. G.E.A.R. is run by parents for parents providing services for parents of children with emotional and behavioral health concerns.
Through parent-to-parent sharing of experiences and knowledge, G.E.A.R. Parent Network empowers parents of children with behavioral health needs to build on their family’s strengths and to advocate for their family’s needs.

“What’s Your Parenting Style? Identifying Your Style and How it Affects Your Interaction with Your Children.
2023-05-15 15:00 - 17:00 | RSU Adult & Community Education , Bucksport High School 102 Broadway #1 and GOTO
This workshop is intended to help you learn and identify your current parenting style and recognize the large impact that it has on your child’s development. We will review each of the four parenting styles. Through sharing of information and discussion you will be given the tools to use to evaluate both positive and negative influences in your lives and how it relates to your parenting style. Parents and caregivers can improve their skills by having and understanding of parenting styles, discipline, cultural influences and environmental issues.
About the G.E.A.R. Parent Network
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a program of Crisis & Counseling Centers, is the place where Gaining Empowerment Allows Results. G.E.A.R. is run by parents for parents providing services for parents of children with emotional and behavioral health concerns.
Through parent-to-parent sharing of experiences and knowledge, G.E.A.R. Parent Network empowers parents of children with behavioral health needs to build on their family’s strengths and to advocate for their family’s needs.

“Understanding Substance Use Disorder and Stigma Effects!”
2023-05-08 18:00 - 20:30 | Go-To Meeting
May 8th and May 10th from 6-8:30 p.m. (a two part Special Event Presentation)
Know the Facts! Substance use among youth and young adults is at its highest level. This disease can cause or increase mental and physical health related issues and can lead to problems at school, home, and work. It can put our youth at risk for involvement with the correctional system or worst of all, lead to loss of life. Substance Use Disorder (SUD) impacts the entire family. This special extended workshop will explore local and national statistics, risk factors, and the effects of SUD on the brain and polysubstance use. A video will be shared, “Pleasure Unwoven” a personal journey about addiction by Kevin McCauley. He turns complex neuroscientific concepts into easy, understandable virtual images that helps explain why SUD is a disease. Also discussed are protective factors, the social and mental impact of stigma and how we can help. This information can be used to start these important conversations with our children and youth. Our kids/young adults are our future, so it is critically important that we parents, family and community members truly understand this disease and learn that recovery is possible! Do not wait to get started!
About the G.E.A.R. Parent Network
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a program of Crisis & Counseling Centers, is the place where Gaining Empowerment Allows Results. G.E.A.R. is run by parents for parents providing services for parents of children with emotional and behavioral health concerns.
Through parent-to-parent sharing of experiences and knowledge, G.E.A.R. Parent Network empowers parents of children with behavioral health needs to build on their family’s strengths and to advocate for their family’s needs.

Join GEAR Parent Network Parent Staff and Maine Families at our CMHA Tailgate Kickoff Event!
2023-05-08 10:00 - 12:00 | Crisis and Counseling Centers 10 Caldwell Rd Augusta
This year’s Children’s Mental Health Awareness/Acceptance Tailgate Kick Off event is organized by parents as a token of our appreciation and to thanks Children’s Behavioral Health Providers and the Office of Child and Family Services for all the hard work you do on behalf of families and youth in Maine. Providers and families please do join us for coffee and refreshments, parents will share their child’s/youth success stories, and receive green ribbons and children’s mental health awareness/acceptance informational resource materials. (no rain date will be held)
Last year, the National Federation of Families took an important step to advance social justice for families: launching the first national Children’s Mental Health Acceptance Week. As an organization focused on families with children who experience mental health and/or substance use across the lifespan, we believe acceptance more directly combats discrimination, prejudice, and subconscious bias. Awareness isn’t enough – but Acceptance demands we advocate and act to change attitudes, behaviors, and systems. Acceptance is social justice. ​
That’s why our 2023 campaign theme for this year is “Accept. Advocate. Act.” We want our children across the lifespan accepted – and that means systemic change in how children’s mental health is viewed. This year, Children’s Mental Health Acceptance Week returns for the second year May 7th – 13th, 2023. Join us to Accept, Advocate, and Act for children’s mental health.

May Afternoon Support Group
2023-05-03 01:00 - 14:30 | Go-To Meeting
You are NOT Alone! Parenting and raising a child/youth is often challenging, however even more so with a child with an emotional or behavioral health concern. Join us in this safe place with no shame, blame or judgment from the comfort of your home on your tablet or smart phone and chat with other parents who share similar life experiences. If you are a parent wanting support, or a parent/caregiver of a child with behavioral, emotional, or developmental health needs, please consider joining to meet and compare notes with other parents who truly understand the journey you are on. Note: Keep in mind that if there is no support group participation within 30 minutes of start time the virtual platform will be ended.
Meets weekly….5/3, 5/10, 5/17, 5/24 and 5/31

“ADHD 101 - What We Want to Know but Forgot to Ask!”
2023-04-26 10:00 - 11:30 | Go-To Meeting
This workshop will offer the framework to help us understand what Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder is, what causes it, how to diagnose and who can diagnose it; the symptoms, what helps, supports; and treatment and management. Come and join in the conversation as we journey together toward greater success.
About the G.E.A.R. Parent Network
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a program of Crisis & Counseling Centers, is the place where Gaining Empowerment Allows Results. G.E.A.R. is run by parents for parents providing services for parents of children with emotional and behavioral health concerns.
Through parent-to-parent sharing of experiences and knowledge, G.E.A.R. Parent Network empowers parents of children with behavioral health needs to build on their family’s strengths and to advocate for their family’s needs.

April Evening Support Group
2023-04-25 07:30 - 20:30 | Go-To Meeting

“Understanding Child Birth Order”
2023-04-24 15:00 - 17:00 | RSU Adult & Community Education , Bucksport High School 102 Broadway #1 and GOTO
Birth order is a fun and interesting topic you may have not have considered. Research shows that a person’s birth order has a direct link with his or her personality. These stereotypes on birth order may sound silly, but there is an interesting degree of scientific accuracy in their foundation. But does birth order influence personality, or is personality shaped based on the ages of siblings around them? Understanding birth order positions allows parents, guardians and teachers to guide and support children and strengthen positive qualities.
About the G.E.A.R. Parent Network
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a program of Crisis & Counseling Centers, is the place where Gaining Empowerment Allows Results. G.E.A.R. is run by parents for parents providing services for parents of children with emotional and behavioral health concerns.
Through parent-to-parent sharing of experiences and knowledge, G.E.A.R. Parent Network empowers parents of children with behavioral health needs to build on their family’s strengths and to advocate for their family’s needs.

“Youth Substance Use Disorder”
2023-04-13 13:00 - 15:00 | Go-To Meeting
Substance use with overdose among youth and young adults in Maine is at its highest level. Knowledge is power so please join us for this presentation on why does it happen in youth and how does it affect our youth, the risk factors; what to look for, what to do about it along with treatment and supports. This information can be used to inform yourself and to begin these important conversations with your children and youth.
About the G.E.A.R. Parent Network
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a program of Crisis & Counseling Centers, is the place where Gaining Empowerment Allows Results. G.E.A.R. is run by parents for parents providing services for parents of children with emotional and behavioral health concerns.
Through parent-to-parent sharing of experiences and knowledge, G.E.A.R. Parent Network empowers parents of children with behavioral health needs to build on their family’s strengths and to advocate for their family’s needs.

“Autism and Strategies”
2023-04-13 10:00 - 11:30 | Go-To Meeting
Participants will gain a basic understanding of autism along with some general strategies to use while interacting with individuals on the spectrum. These strategies relate to sensory, communication, behavioral and social deficits that often interfere with an individual’s ability to process information.
About the G.E.A.R. Parent Network
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a program of Crisis & Counseling Centers, is the place where Gaining Empowerment Allows Results. G.E.A.R. is run by parents for parents providing services for parents of children with emotional and behavioral health concerns.
Through parent-to-parent sharing of experiences and knowledge, G.E.A.R. Parent Network empowers parents of children with behavioral health needs to build on their family’s strengths and to advocate for their family’s needs.
