Gear Parent Network

Support Group
2025-01-15 13:00 - 14:30 (America/New_York) | Zoom
REGISTER NOW
For parents or caregivers of children/youth with emotional or behavioral health concerns, it is held virtually on Wednesdays from 1-2:30 p.m.
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a Kennebec Behavioral Health, is where Gaining Empowerment Allows Results. G.E.A.R. is run by parents for parents and supports parents of children with emotional and behavioral health concerns.
Through parent-to-parent sharing of experiences and knowledge, the 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.
Follow the link to register to join us for this no-cost educational session:https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJ0vd-GhqTgoGN3HN4ps2tFbq-2AP0I7_c_g

Seasonal Affective Disorder
2025-01-15 17:30 - 19:30 | Bangor Housing Boys and Girls Club, 161 Davis Rd, Bangor
This is an in person event only. You will not get an confirmation when you register. Please sign in at the location when you arrive.
Seasonal Affective Disorder can impact adults, teens, and children. It is estimated about 5% of the people experience SAD in the US and 4 out of 5 are women. One US study found rates of SAD were 7 times higher in New Hampshire then in California suggesting the farther we are from the equator, the more likely we are to develop SAD. Join us for an educational and STRESS-LESS time learning about SAD and how to deal with it.
About the G.E.A.R. Parent Network
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a program of Kennebec Behavioral Health, 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.

Support Group
2025-01-22 13:00 - 14:30, 2025-01-29 13:00 - 14:30 | Zoom
REGISTER NOW
For parents or caregivers of children/youth with emotional or behavioral health concerns, it is held virtually on Wednesdays from 1-2:30 p.m.
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a Kennebec Behavioral Health, is where Gaining Empowerment Allows Results. G.E.A.R. is run by parents for parents and supports parents of children with emotional and behavioral health concerns.
Through parent-to-parent sharing of experiences and knowledge, the 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.
Follow the link to register to join us for this no-cost educational session:
https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJ0vd-GhqTgoGN3HN4ps2tFbq-2AP0I7_c_g

Team Up for Your Child – Family Roadmap
2025-02-01 09:00 - 14:00 | Zoom
REGISTER NOW[/butt
Families of children and youth with autism, ADD/ADHD, behavioral and developmental disorders, or any type of special health needs will find practical strategies in this step-by-step guide designed by parent and Author Wendy Besmann Lowe to help families navigate confusing service systems and work smarter with doctors, schools, agencies and insurers. When a child has serious behavioral health issues, you suddenly have a team of professionals in your life who provide a variety of services and supports. This team could include doctors, therapists, health workers and teachers but remember that the coach of this team is you – the parent. You are the only one who takes care of the whole child. Learn how to identify your child’s strengths and needs, make sense of reports and evaluations, understand your child’s treatment plan, track your child’s progress and translate the Individualized Education Program.
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a Kennebec Behavioral Health program, is where Gaining Empowerment Allows Results. G.E.A.R. is run by parents for parents and supports parents of children with emotional and behavioral health concerns.
Through parent-to-parent sharing of experiences and knowledge, the 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.
Follow the link to register to join us for this no-cost educational session:
https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJIvde-vrDIoGtEmVD6_qa1RNz3wziR5No-W

Support Group
2025-02-05 13:00 - 14:30 | Zoom
REGISTER NOW[/butt
For parents or caregivers of children/youth with emotional or behavioral health concerns, it is held virtually on Wednesdays from 1-2:30 p.m.
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a Kennebec Behavioral Health, is where Gaining Empowerment Allows Results. G.E.A.R. is run by parents for parents and supports parents of children with emotional and behavioral health concerns.
Through parent-to-parent sharing of experiences and knowledge, the 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.
Follow the link to register to join us for this no-cost educational session:
REGISTER NOW[/butt
For parents or caregivers of children/youth with emotional or behavioral health concerns, it is held virtually on Wednesdays from 1-2:30 p.m.
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a Kennebec Behavioral Health, is where Gaining Empowerment Allows Results. G.E.A.R. is run by parents for parents and supports parents of children with emotional and behavioral health concerns.
Through parent-to-parent sharing of experiences and knowledge, the 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.
Follow the link to register to join us for this no-cost educational session: https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJ0vd-GhqTgoGN3HN4ps2tFbq-2AP0I7_c_g

Support Group
2025-02-12 13:00 - 14:30, 2025-02-19 13:00 - 14:30, 2025-02-26 13:00 - 14:30, 2025-03-05 08:00 - 17:00, 2025-03-12 13:00 - 14:30, 2025-03-19 13:00 - 14:30, 2025-03-26 13:00 - 14:30 | Zoom
REGISTER NOW[/butt
For parents or caregivers of children/youth with emotional or behavioral health concerns, it is held virtually on Wednesdays from 1-2:30 p.m.
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a Kennebec Behavioral Health, is where Gaining Empowerment Allows Results. G.E.A.R. is run by parents for parents and supports parents of children with emotional and behavioral health concerns.
Through parent-to-parent sharing of experiences and knowledge, the 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.
Follow the link to register to join us for this no-cost educational session: https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJ0vd-GhqTgoGN3HN4ps2tFbq-2AP0I7_c_g

Do You Speak Teen? ‘mnE Ps dnt bleev der is a gNR8N d/c b/t em n thr teen
2025-02-12 17:30 - 19:30 | Bangor Housing Boys and Girls Club, 161 Davis Rd, Bangor
This is an in person only workshop. You will not receive an confirmation email after registering. Please sign in after arriving at the venue.
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 Kennebec Behavioral Health, 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 Tobacco and Substance Use and What We Can Do About It
2025-02-13 13:00 - 14:30 | Zoom
REGISTER NOW[/butt
We will explore the latest data on youth tobacco and substance use from the Maine Integrated Youth Health Survey (MIYHS), learn about the effects of these substances on brain development, learn how to answer tough questions from a child about substance use, and more!
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a program of Kennebec Behavioral Health, 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.
Follow the link to register to join us for this no-cost educational session: https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJ0vceuorTgpH9dKUnjRrEDZ8rhNS3EsgtuG

Building Stronger Families Through Effective Communication
2025-02-25 18:00 - 20:00 | Zoom
REGISTER NOW
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 the heart of good communication.

The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a Kennebec Behavioral Health program, is where Gaining Empowerment Allows Results. G.E.A.R. is run by parents for parents and supports parents of children with emotional and behavioral health concerns.
Through parent-to-parent sharing of experiences and knowledge, the 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.
Follow the link to register to join us for this no-cost educational session:
https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJEqf-ispz0rGtBx2WOH-4K6uHSi8hWKFGtx

Perspectives on Youth with Problematic Sexual Behavior
2025-03-06 18:00 - 19:30 | Zoom
REGISTER NOW[/button
Join us in addressing the prevalence of child sexual abuse, problematic sexual behaviors, prevention, and safety. In this workshop we will define problematic sexual behaviors and why they occur, treatment, safety, and hope for the future.
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a program of Kennebec Behavioral Health, 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.
Follow the link to register to join us for this no-cost educational session: https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJUvfumqqzIpHNdSizQb9wobbN34FIPwtPbS

Sexual Behavior – Age Appropriate vs. Potentially Problematic Sexual Behavior in Youth
2025-03-10 18:00 - 19:30 | Zoom
REGISTER NOW[/butt
Join us in addressing the prevalence of child sexual abuse, problematic sexual behaviors, prevention, and safety. In this workshop we will learn what behaviors to expect at different ages and how to respond to concerning behavior.
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a program of Kennebec Behavioral Health, 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.
Follow the link to register to join us for this no-cost educational session: https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJArdeygrD0jGNSKF0HNBoVdrZjY12FXHNWd

Success in Co-Parenting and Blended Families
2025-03-12 17:30 - 19:30 | Bangor Housing Boys and Girls Club, 161 Davis Rd, Bangor
This is an in person only workshop. You will not get an confirmation email when you register. Please sign in when you arrive at the venue.
Co-parenting can be very stressful and emotional. Join us to learn more about what some blended families encounter such as significant parenting differences, having false expectations as to what the relationships and family life will look like, how to manage the emotions and work on challenges, as well as seek outside help when needed. We will discuss ways to create a more unified and harmonious family unit truly setting your family up for success to ensure the best outcomes for your children.
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 Consequences
2025-03-20 13:00 - 15:00 | Zoom
REGISTER NOW[/butt
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.
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a program of Kennebec Behavioral Health, 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.
Follow the link to register to join us for this no-cost educational session: https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJMkduqtqjwrE9Uatrne0B-GmpAsX3WzpV3N

Understanding Substance Use Disorder and Stigma Effects!
2025-03-30 10:00 - 13:00 | Zoom
REGISTER NOW[/butt
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 and young adults are our future, so it is critically important that parents, family and community members truly understand this disease and know that recovery is possible! Do not wait to get started!
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a Kennebec Behavioral Health, is where Gaining Empowerment Allows Results. G.E.A.R. is run by parents for parents and supports parents of children with emotional and behavioral health concerns.
Through parent-to-parent sharing of experiences and knowledge, the 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.
Follow the link to register to join us for this no-cost educational session:https://kbhmaine-org.zoom.us/j/93920223733?pwd=[REDACTED]

Support Group
2025-04-03 13:00 - 14:00, 2025-04-09 13:00 - 14:00, 2025-04-16 13:00 - 14:00, 2025-04-23 13:00 - 14:00, 2025-04-30 13:00 - 14:00, 2025-05-07 13:00 - 14:00 | Zoom
REGISTER NOW[/butt
For parents or caregivers of children/youth with emotional or behavioral health concerns. This group is held on Zoom every Wednesday from 1-2p.m
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a program of Kennebec Behavioral Health, 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.
Follow the link to register to join us for this no-cost educational session: https://kbhmaine-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJ0vd-GhqTgoGN3HN4ps2tFbq-2AP0I7_c_g

“What’s Your Parenting Style? Identifying Your Style and How it Affects Your Interaction with Your Children”
2025-04-09 17:30 - 19:00 | Bangor Housing Opportunity Center, 161 Davis Rd, Bangor
This Event Is In Person Only!
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.
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a program of Kennebec Behavioral Health, 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 Consequences”
2025-05-05 13:00 - 15:00 | Zoom
REGISTER NOW[/butt

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.
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a program of Kennebec Behavioral Health, 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.
Follow the link to register to join us for this no-cost educational session: https://kbhmaine-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/5dd5tNmdQ7G3uaAFKF_hyQ

“Reactive Attachment Disorder/RAD”
2025-05-08 10:00 - 12:00 | Zoom
REGISTER NOW[/butt
Join us for this special Children’s Mental Health Action Week event, where Dr. Walker will discuss the implications of making a home for an Attachment Disordered child. He will discuss the effects of such a placement on the environment of the family and the implications of RAD on the parenting methods that must be employed in an effort to help the child overcome the effects of their early life trauma. Dr. Walker believes that by increasing your understanding of the true nature of the deficits caused by early life trauma, parents can more easily address those needs and by doing so, improve the climate within their families.
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a program of Kennebec Behavioral Health, 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.

Follow the link to register to join us for this no-cost educational session:https://kbhmaine-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/F_1zbGqOQz6xI28CA24ADQ
