Surviving Parenting: Self-Care is NEVER Selfish
2024-11-05 10:00 - 12:00 (America/New_York) | Zoom
REGISTER NOW
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.
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a Crisis & Counseling Centers 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/tJcoceCsqDMtEt0izaVjI_fhxGNlROXShx_P

Parent Support Group
2024-11-06 13:00 - 14:30, 2024-11-13 13:00 - 14:30, 2024-11-20 13:00 - 14:30, 2024-11-27 13:00 - 14:30, 2024-12-04 13:00 - 14:30, 2024-12-11 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 Crisis & Counseling Centers 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/tJ0vd-GhqTgoGN3HN4ps2tFbq-2AP0I7_c_g

Managing Stress During the Holidays
2024-11-06 17:30 - 19:30 | Bangor Housing Boys and Girls Club, 161 Davis Rd, Bangor
In person only
The holiday season will quickly be here! While it is meant to bring feelings of love and cheer, it’s also the harbinger of much stress for many of us. Join us and learn a few simple tips you could try to help reduce holiday stress before it begins so that it remains at a positive level rather than an overwhelming one.
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
2024-11-14 18:00 - 20:00 | Sanford Pride Elementary library, 708 Main St Sanford
Virtual and in person
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.

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.

Positive Behavioral Supports & Tantrum Management: Self-Preservation & Success in Parenting Children with Behavioral Health Needs
2024-11-21 10:00 - 12:00 | Zoom
REGISTER NOW
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!
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a Crisis & Counseling Centers 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/tJYkc-CtqjsiE9TJ7WZTr2xEmnJsKmnfXQKF

Impulsivity & Disruptive Behaviors in Children & Youth
2024-12-02 16:00 - 18:00 | Zoom
REGISTER NOW
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 impulsive and disruptive behaviors including oppositional defiant disorder (ODD), conduct disorder (CD), and impulse control disorder (ICD). In this workshop you will learn more about the disorders defined in the chapter on disruptive, impulse-control, and conduct disorders by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), what treatments are available, and what parents/caregivers can do to better respond to impulsive and disruptive behavior.
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a Crisis & Counseling Centers 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/tJModO6hrDooHtBCW5zxdbHXlmQqcaR369Tw

Managing Stress During the Holidays
2024-12-04 10:00 - 12:00 | Zoom
REGISTER NOW
The holiday season will quickly be here! While it is meant to bring feelings of love and cheer, it’s also the harbinger of much stress for many of us. Join us and learn a few simple tips you could try to help reduce holiday stress before it begins so that it remains at a positive level rather than an overwhelming one.
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a Crisis & Counseling Centers 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/tJArf-yoqD4pHdUM0cVHeRg1kfVF3VEZWZIM

Ho-Ho-Ho Holiday Family Movie Night with your Kids!
2024-12-06 17:30 - 19:30 | Ginny’s Natural Corner, 217 North Ave in Skowhegan, 217 North Ave
In person only
Moms, dads, grandparents and kids of all ages! Join us for an evening social event family holiday movie night! Kids, wear your PJ’s and bring your favorite toy, pillow and blanket and join other families to watch a classic holiday movie together! Snacks will be offered.
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.

Ho-Ho-Ho Holiday Fun! Creating Ornaments!
2024-12-07 10:00 - 12:00 | Windham Public Library, 217 Windham Center Rd, Windham
Virtual and in person
Join us for creating easy ornament designs for the holidays by recycling your old ornaments! Use any items or materials you wish to use that may be used such as: wrapping paper and ribbon, pictures, wrapping tissue paper, hair ribbons, beads, glitter, sequins and liquid glue. Let’s have fun together, be creative and leave you with a little personalized memory to hold on to or create a personal gift to give this holiday season!
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.

Disaster Preparedness 101: Families Prepare & Empower Themselves to Persevere Through Traumatic Events and Unexpected Disaster
2024-12-09 18:00 - 20:00 | Zoom
button link=” https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJEucOusqTkiG9YloZfaicTTeXSOW3AUbQJA” type=”big” color=”purple” newwindow=”yes”] REGISTER NOW[/button]
When disaster strikes will you be ready? Flooding, blizzards, high wind, and intense storms with power outages are common disasters in Maine. This workshop focuses on the reactions and needs of children and adolescents in times of unexpected disaster – even a pandemic. This workshop focuses on the reactions and needs of children and adolescents in times of unexpected disaster. Participants will learn how to become prepared, engage their communities and emergency teams to effectively respond to the unique health and well-being needs of their children and youth. You will learn begin to plan and prepare for an emergency evacuation and learn strategies to make the unforeseen event more bearable and less traumatic.
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a Crisis & Counseling Centers 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/tJEucOusqTkiG9YloZfaicTTeXSOW3AUbQJA

Ho-Ho-Ho! Holiday Family Activities!
2024-12-11 17:30 - 19:30 | Bangor Housing Boys and Girls Club, 161 Davis Rd, Bangor
In person only
Join us as we celebrate the season with some holiday fun activities that the whole family can enjoy, so gather your family and join us in having some fun!
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.

Parent Support Group
2024-12-18 13:00 - 14:30 | Zoom
REGISTER NOW[/button
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 Crisis & Counseling Centers 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/tJ0vd-GhqTgoGN3HN4ps2tFbq-2AP0I7_c_g

Support Group
2025-01-08 13:00 - 14:30, 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

Support Group
2025-01-15 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

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.

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 | 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
