Get Help

We are parents that have walked in your shoes and truly understand the complex and unique challenges that families who have children with behavioral health concerns face. We offer unconditional support – no blame, no shame and no judgement. We are only a phone call away. You can reach us, toll free in Maine, at (800) 264-9224.

We offer parents and caregivers free support, resource information, participation in educational supportive workshops, support groups, learning more about your child’s diagnosis or tips around child behavior management; advocacy mentoring or help in navigating the child serving systems. 


If you feel you would like more direct personalized support that includes education, advocacy, coaching and mentoring, we also offer this support to parents in their homes for up to six months. We are a statewide team of parents and as Nationally Certified Family Peer Specialists we are committed to improving the quality of life for children, youth and families in Maine. If you would like to talk to or receive support from another parent who knows what you are going through then you have found the right place!

Weekly Support Groups

We offer a weekly support group on Wednesday afternoons for anyone who is parenting a child with emotional or behavioral health issues. If you have any questions or would like to sign up for this support group, please call us at (800) 264-9224.

We know that children with behavioral and emotional disabilities are often misunderstood and may:

  • have difficulties building relationships in their communities
  • act out at home
  • have difficulty meeting educational requirements at school
  • start misusing substances
  • sometimes end up in the criminal justice system.

We provide critical support to parents/caregivers and families who may otherwise be isolated and overwhelmed dealing with these issues. We empower parents and families by offering parent-to-parent support, advocacy, education and meaningful participation in all aspects of the services children and families receive.

We pride ourselves in being leaders in the State of Maine in developing family voice by helping to ensure that parents and families are involved in the planning and delivery of behavioral health services for children.

We want you to know that you are not alone. If you need support now, call our statewide team at 800-264-9224

Our regional family support coordinators and family peer specialists are available to help you. Reach out now or when you feel in need of extra support.

Statewide Support Staff

Cindy Seekins, CFPS

Director, G.E.A.R. Parent Network

Email Cindy Seekins, CFPS

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Regional Family Support Coordinators

Diane Bouffard, CFPS

Team Leader/Regional Family Support Coordinator, supporting families in Franklin, Kennebec & Somerset counties.

Email Diane Bouffard, CFPS

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Shannan King, CFPS

Regional Family Support Coordinator, supporting families in Hancock, Waldo, Knox, Lincoln and Sagadahoc counties

Email Shannan King, CFPS

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Heather Williams, CFPS

Regional Family Support Coordinator, supporting families in Androscoggin, Cumberland, Oxford, & York counties.

Email Heather Williams, CFPS

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Family Peer Specialist Staff

Email Robert Boulier, CFPS

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Suzanne Gagne, CFPS

Family Peer Specialist - Penobscot County

Email Suzanne Gagne, CFPS

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Ashley Emery

Family Peer Specialist - Cumberland and York counties

Email Ashley Emery

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Administrative Offices

10 Caldwell Road
Augusta, Maine 04330

Crisis and Counseling Centers

visit crisisandcounseling.org

Proud member of the National Federation of Families