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?
My parent peer support helped me immensely. Not only was she knowledgeable in resources, but she was someone who could relate to what I was going through. That alone helped me more than anyone could ever realize. There were very difficult days and she would be there to talk me through it, help me understand and answer questions. She wasn’t a stranger I went to see at an office every once in a while. She became a friend, who sat with me in the comfort of my home. I think people forget parents need someone too. For me, G.E.A.R. Parent Network was an essential piece to helping my family learn, understand and grow.
Administrative Offices
67 Eustis Parkway
Waterville, ME 04901
Kennebec Behavioral Health
visit kbhmaine.org
