If you need immediate support, call or text 988 any time.
Empowering families to be a strong voice for their children.
The Support Network walks beside families whose children have mental health needs. Practical support, from real people who have been there.
The Support Network is a program of the Western Massachusetts Training Consortium. We are a community of educators, parents, caregivers, and mental health providers who champion children’s mental health. Together, we work to reduce mental health stigma and strengthen our community.
Raising a child with behavioral, emotional, or mental health needs is hard, and no family should do it alone.
Here is how we support.
Peer Support Groups
Parents and staff come together in a safe, welcoming environment to share experiences, information, and resources. Peer support groups build resilience, hope, and healing through connection.
Workshops and Trainings
Workshops and trainings that give guardians tools to work collaboratively with their child’s school, increase awareness of special education regulations, and stay updated on children’s mental health and wellness research. We also provide referrals for mental and emotional health supports for children and guardians.
1-On-1 Support
Our team is made up of parents, caregivers, educators, and specialists in the medical field. We work together to empower parents and their children on their mental health journeys and advocate for supports that work.
Resources & Referrals
Discover resources and strategies that reduce stigma and amplify families’ voices. Learn how to engage in local, state, or national campaigns to raise awareness of children’s social, emotional, and behavioral well-being.
Upcoming Events
No parent or caregiver should have to navigate challenges alone. Our groups are free, confidential, and welcoming. Get in touch and we will send you the meeting details.
Second Monday of the month, 6:00 PM
Virtual Parent & Caregiver Support Group
On Zoom. Contact Margery Jess, 413-530-5488 or mjess@wmtcinfo.org, or Gretchen Emond, 413-530-4689 or gemond@wmtcinfo.org.
First Tuesday of the month, 11:00 AM
Franklin County Parent & Caregiver Support Group
In person at The Brick House, 24 Third Street, Turners Falls. Contact Gretchen Emond, 413-530-4689 or gemond@wmtcinfo.org.
Third Thursday of the month, 9:30 AM
Early Childhood Virtual Coffee Hour
For parents of children starting preschool or kindergarten. On Zoom with Gretchen and Shawna. Next one: November 19. To RSVP, email sosman@wmtcinfo.org or gemond@wmtcinfo.org.
Waitlist
Parenting Well When You Are Not Feeling Well
This group is for caregivers that identify as having a chronic health or mental health condition. This is an opportunity to meet others that are struggling with similar experiences. Contact Gretchen Emond for the current waitlist information: gemond@wmtcinfo.org.
Questions about school, services, or advocating for your child? A member of the Support Network team can meet with parents, caregivers, or providers on Zoom. Email gemond@wmtcinfo.org or submit a referral.
Our families’ voices, heard where it matters
At The Support Network, we believe in the efficacy of partnership with our families and communities. Through the sharing of our own lived experiences, we strive to enlighten our local, state and national authorities about the difficulties families encounter while working to access the best possible care for their children.
In Their Words
Through countless workshops, trainings and support groups, I have gained not only knowledge but also the confidence to find and use my own voice. With the guidance of Family Support Specialists, I learned how to navigate complex systems, access critical resources, and stand firmly in advocating for my children within school districts and mental health settings.
Jessica Rose, parent and group member
The Support Network has been my primary source of information regarding mental health services available for my child. My Family Support Specialist has been a knowledgeable, compassionate and caring source of support. At the monthly support group meetings I have met other parents who struggle with similar challenges and I have learned from their experience.
A parent in our support groups