Robert is an adoptive parent of two special needs children (now adults). Dr. Walker has almost forty years of experience training and supporting parents and professionals in the areas of adoption, foster care, and attachment related trauma. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology, and a Master’s Degree in Mental Health Counseling. His Ph.D. work […]

Effective communication skills are vitally important for thriving family relationships. Using tools such as non-violent and non-verbal communication can improve our ability to resolve conflicts that arise and strengthen bonds within families. As parents, we can master these skills and model them for our children. Join us in learning the various strategies that are at […]

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 […]

KNOW the facts! Substance use with overdose among our 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 […]

Join Disability Rights Maine’s Youth Self-Advocacy Team in an activity-based Leadership Training! We will explore what makes influential leaders successful, practice strategies become leaders in our everyday life, and set goals to start thinking about the future! Young Mainers aged 14-25 encouraged to attend! Our training provides several opportunities for discussion to build connection between […]

Self-care often becomes an afterthought for parents and caregivers. The ability to treat and understand oneself with respect and kindness can be especially elusive when raising a family. In this workshop, you will learn how stress and anxiety affect all of us and what you can do about it. You will do a self-care checkup […]

All children and youth have outbursts from time to time, however some do have much difficulty in their ability to regulate their emotions and behaviors even when adverse consequences may occur. This lack of self-control can cause significant distress or impairment in a child’s or youth’s life. A number of different diagnoses are unified by […]

Sunburn, heat cramps, heat stroke and skin cancer often are not thought of when you are enjoying the outdoors. Come learn about the importance of keeping your children and yourself safe while having fun in the sun! Parents may share their challenges and some ideas how they deal with the sun protection and summertime issues. […]

held virtually every Wednesday from 1-2:30 p.m. 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 […]

From air fresheners to window and floor cleaners and beyond, many everyday cleaning supplies can be hazardous to the health of you and your family. Save money and reduce your family’s exposure from toxic household cleaners! Join us and learn how to avoid using toxic cleaning chemicals and still provide a clean, healthy and comfortable […]

Are you feeling like you are always walking on eggshells when dealing with your young child’s meltdowns? (Professionals sometimes call these behaviors “dysregulation”) Are you at a loss about how to help your child to be successful? You’re not alone! Join in the discussion about what meltdowns are and strategies that can be used to […]