Since its launch in fall 2010, the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey’s Mom2Mom peer support initiative has been caring for the mental and emotional health of mothers of children with special needs in Essex, Union and Morris counties, reaching 958 families.
And now, thanks to a partnership with the New Jersey Department of Children and Families (DCF), the 24/7 Mom2Mom helpline (877-914-MOM2) and related services are available to parents of children with special needs statewide.
By dialing the Mom2Mom helpline, a caller receives the following services:
Mom2Mom peer counseling support: Mothers of children with special needs trained in peer counseling and crisis support will offer peer support, explain resources and explore the needs of helpline callers. Mom2Mom peer support is also available via live chat online through www.mom2mom.us.com, and the Mom2Mom Facebook page offers a forum for mothers and counselors to connect and share resources.
Mom2Mom clinical assessment: Mom2Mom clinicians assist as part of the team of clinical professionals available for telephone assessment, and gauge the depression, anxiety and family and marital issues, etc., that may be impacting their lives.
Mom2Mom network: A Mom2Mom database of specially trained service providers is available for referrals for callers’ mental health needs.
Mom2Mom support groups: Mom peer supporters are available for monthly Mom2Mom support group meetings in local communities.