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?
The support groups and trainings that G.E.A.R. offers are wonderful, but they don’t compare to the personal relationship that can occur from one-on-one interactions. I know for me, often times I don’t feel comfortable airing my “bad laundry” to a group, especially where I am from a small community and will see these people in other venues. The staff at G.E.A.R. are REAL. They are parents who have experienced trouble with schools, the heartache of having a child hospitalized and/or jailed, medication changes and other issues that arise when dealing with a child with SED (serious emotional disturbance). Having someone with lived experience to talk about my child is so important.
Administrative Offices
67 Eustis Parkway
Waterville, ME 04901
Kennebec Behavioral Health
visit kbhmaine.org
Proud member of the National Federation of Families
