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 who have kids ages 0-21 with emotional and behavioral health concerns.
We are parent-to-parent support. Here is how we can help you.
No parent should suffer alone and in silence when a child is struggling with his or her mental health.
Parenting can be challenging under the best of circumstances. But when a child, teenager, or young adult struggles with emotional, mental or behavioral health problems, parenting can be overwhelming and isolating.
We provide parents and caregivers who are concerned about their children’s mental health with an opportunity to find and support each other in a confidential and safe space.
We provide NO COST support to parents and families who have kids ages 0-21. Our supports include:
- 1:1 parent-peer support to parents/caregivers
 - Emotional support and family-centered training
 - Educational workshops and conferences
 - Positive parenting skills education and peer mentoring
 - Social and networking events to reduce isolation, enhance natural supports, and promote resiliency factors
 - Increased awareness of children’s behavioral health needs
 - Advocacy in the Maine’s system of care for comprehensive, coordinated, community-based, trauma-informed and family/youth-driven services.
 
Download our guide for how we help.
Are you a parent of a child/youth who has behavioral health concerns and you are looking for employment as a parent/family peer specialist?
I learned that the approach from G.E.A.R. is different than the typical behavioral help that we began to know. What I liked most about my parent partner was that she came from a place of understanding and knowledge that no book could teach you. Having someone who has been there, or if not, knows parents who have, gives me a little bit more hope than I had in the beginning. To be honest, sometimes it is just nice to have a regular person, a peer, because sometimes a person with a big degree, credentials, fancy car, fancy clothes and preconceived expectations is not 100% what we need.
Administrative Offices
67 Eustis Parkway
Waterville, ME 04901
Kennebec Behavioral Health
visit kbhmaine.org
