Gear Parent Network

“Understanding Substance Use Disorder and Stigma Effects!”
2023-05-08 18:00 - 20:30 (America/New_York) | 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
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.

“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.

“The Motivation Breakthrough: Six Secrets to Turning on the Tuned Out Child” Video Presentation by Author Rick Lavoie, M.A., M.Ed
2023-04-10 18:00 - 20:00 | RSU Adult & Community Education , Bucksport High School 102 Broadway #1 and GOTO
This workshop explores proven techniques, strategies, and scripts – based on six possible motivational styles – that will revolutionize the way teachers and parents inspire children to succeed and achieve. Rick Lavoie explodes common myths and gives specific advice for motivating children. With empathy and understanding, he offers parents and teachers the key to unlocking enthusiasm and responsiveness, proving any child can be motivated to learn.
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 is Considered Child Abuse & Neglect in Maine?”
2023-04-06 10:00 - 12:00 | Go-To Meeting
April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month! 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 behavior 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.

April Afternoon Support Group
2023-04-05 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, 4/5, 4/12, 4/19 and 4/26

“Nurturing Parenting for Families in Recovery”
2023-04-04 15:30 - 17:00 | Go-To Meeting
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!
Held every Tuesday from 3:30–5 p.m.
Register online at https://kvcap-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZcqd-yprDsoG9W2oUPOu4cXdgWARNTx_Zha
or call Jenny at 207-859-2521

Evening Support Group
2023-03-28 19:30 - 20:30, 2023-02-28 19:30 - 20:30 | Go-To Meeting

“Last One Picked – First One Picked On: Learning Disabilities and Social Skills”
2023-03-27 18:00 - 20:00 | RSU Adult & Community Education , Bucksport High School 102 Broadway #1 and GOTO
Do you watch your child struggle with social isolation and rejection? This workshop will provide parents, caregivers, and teachers with strategies for teaching our kids the social skills they will need for success in social interaction. Participants will learn about positive traits for peer acceptance, student traits that teachers like, and the “hidden curriculum”
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
2023-03-21 10:00 - 12:00 | Go-To Meeting
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.

“It’s So Much Work to Be Your Friend: Helping the Child with Learning Disabilities Find Social Success”
2023-03-13 18:00 - 20:00 | RSU Adult & Community Education , Bucksport High School 102 Broadway #1 and GOTO
Are you concerned that your child has no friends? Do you watch your child struggle with social isolation and rejection? This workshop will identify specific reasons why children with learning disabilities have difficulty with social interaction. Parents and caregivers will learn practical strategies to assist children in gaining peer acceptance and developing age appropriate social skills.
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.

“Toxic Chemicals and Our Children’s Developing Brains”
2023-03-09 18:00 - 20:00 | Go-To Meeting
Why is environmental health so important? Consider the following information: Twelve million American children or 17 percent of all Americans under the age of 18 have one or more developmental, learning or behavioral disabilities; more than 1.5 million Americans are autistic. In the 1970s, autism was estimated to have affected about 1 in 2,500 to 5,000 children; studies show that in Maine it occurs today in 1 in 59 children; 127,000 adults and children in Maine are identified as having learning disabilities; and 37 percent of the children receiving special education services in our public schools have learning or attention disabilities. Learn why it is important to protect your family from toxic chemical exposures.
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.

“Non-Toxic Housekeeping Class”
2023-03-07 18:00 - 20:00 | Go-To Meeting
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 home; how to save money and time with simple cleaning technique; easy and inexpensive recipes to make safe and effective homemade household cleaners.
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.

“Basic Advocacy! How to Advocate for what your Kids Need!”
2023-03-07 10:00 - 12:00 | Go-To Meeting
What does it mean being a good advocate? Many parents and caregivers have faced challenges in getting their child’s behavioral health and education needs met. Having your heart in the right place is very important, but is only the beginning. Learning to communicate and advocate effectively with service providers, doctors and teachers is one of the best ways to ensure that your child’s needs are being met. It is also important to know that the advocacy process doesn’t need to be confrontational. You can have ongoing, collaborative and constructive relationships with others. Developing your advocacy skills is the next step to forming your own strategies about how to solve problems, resolve conflicts and become a more effective advocate.
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.

March Afternoon Support Group
2023-03-01 13:00 - 14:30 | Go-To Meeting

“Surviving Parenting: Self-Care is NEVER Selfish”
2023-02-27 15:00 - 17:00 | RSU Adult & Community Education , Bucksport High School 102 Broadway #1 and GOTO
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 and tools will be shared to create positive thinking. Join us to discover how to cope when your life is full but your energy tank is running on empty.
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.

February Afternoon Support Group
2023-02-22 13:00 - 14:30 | Go-To Meeting

“Building Stronger Families Through Effective Communication
2023-02-22 10:00 - 12:00 | Go-To Meeting
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.
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.

"Ask an Occupational Therapist"
2023-02-16 18:00 - 20:00 | Go-To Meeting
Do you have a child with special developmental, emotional, or educational needs? Your child may benefit from occupational therapy services. Join us to learn more about what occupational therapy is and to discuss the various ways it can address the challenges children are facing.
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.

“Helping Your Child Manage Their Meltdowns”
2023-02-08 10:00 - 12:00 | Go-To Meeting
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 help your child better manage these meltdowns.
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.

“The Motivation Breakthrough: Six Secrets to Turning on the Tuned Out Child”
2023-02-07 13:00 - 15:00 | Go-To Meeting
This video workshop explores proven techniques, strategies and scripts – based on six possible motivational styles – that will revolutionize the way teachers and parents inspire children to succeed and achieve. Rick Lavoie explodes common myths and gives specific advice for motivating children.
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.

“How Difficult Can This Be? The F.A.T. City Workshop”
2023-02-06 18:00 - 20:00 | RSU Adult & Community Education , Bucksport High School 102 Broadway #1 and GOTO
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
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.

“Success in Co-Parenting and Blending Families”
2023-02-04 09:00 - 12:00 | Go-To Meeting
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.
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 Peer Supports in Maine”
2023-01-25 18:00 - 20:00 | Go-To Meeting
Join us to learn about how youth in Maine can receive support from other peer youth! The Youth Peer Support Statewide Network (YPSSN) of Maine Behavioral Healthcare joins us to share how they serve youth ages 14-26 who self-identify with a history of mental health and/or substance use challenges. They offer one-on-one youth peer support, drop-in/support groups, recreational activities, advocacy opportunities, and more. Because they are grant-funded, the peer support services are free – and don’t bill insurance or the participants. Referrals are accepted from anyone (not just within the Maine Behavioral Healthcare network), as long as the youth gives permission to have their information shared with YPSSN.
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.
