Parent Resources

Programs for Parents & Children

The Developmental - Behavioral Health team at Albany Medical Center offers specialized programs to help you engage with other parents or children, discuss concerns, ask questions, and more. Below you'll find a list of group programs with a brief description.

Registration is required. To register, use the links provided under each program. You will receive more information after you register regarding the new start date.

For more information, call 518-262-5401 or email [email protected].

Referral Needed for Developmental - Behavioral Pediatrics

A completed referral form is required before an appointment can be made with one of our providers.

To obtain the referral form, call our office at 518-262-5401 or email [email protected]

Thursday @Noon Parenting Program

Parents are invited to participate in an ongoing weekly virtual program that provides information on parenting, and the opportunity to speak to others with similar concerns. Topics for these group meetings vary each week, and you are welcome to participate in any or all of the meetings.

Initial registration is required. Once we receive your information, you will receive a link for the next scheduled program. Your insurance will be billed for each meeting you attend.

Friendship Group

The Friendship Group is designed for kids aged 7-12 to connect with peers, build social skills, and learn about friendship. Each week, there will be activities related to different topics including kindness, big feelings, conflict resolution, and more.

Registration is required. Once we receive your registration, you will receive an email with more information. Insurance will be billed for sessions attended.

Neurodivergent Teen Girls' Mental Health Group

Teens who identify as girls with neurodivergence are invited to join us to talk about social skills, social responsiveness, and mental health. Each week, there will be an interactive activity related to various topics, including non-verbal communication, conflict resolution, and self-esteem.

Registration is required. New series start frequently. Once you have registered to participate, you will receive more information regarding the next start date. Insurance will be billed for sessions attended.

New Diagnosis Parent Support Group

This program is for parents whose child has recently been diagnosed with autism and/or ADHD. You will receive information on the diagnosis and strategies to address behavior concerns.

Registration is required. New series start frequently. Once we receive your registration, you will receive an email with more information. Insurance will be billed for sessions attended.

Postpartum Support Group

This group is for parents who recently had a baby and would like to connect with other new parents.

Caregivers who have concerns for perinatal mood and anxiety disorders can ask questions, and our clinicians can connect you to resources as needed.

The group will meet virtually once a month, on an ongoing basis. Please join as your schedule permits. Insurance will be billed for sessions attended.

Grandparents Raising Grandchildren

Grandparents who are the child's primary caregiver are invited to attend an in-person educational support group.

Raising grandchildren can be difficult, especially if the child also has ADHD, autism, or other behavioral challenges. This program offers parenting tips and information on accessing community-based supports.

New series start frequently. Once we receive your registration, you will receive an email with more information. Insurance will be billed for sessions attended.

Education Consultation

Our education consultant meets virtually with parents to help you:

Understand the special education system
Learn how to request an evaluation from school
Understand how services are added or removed

You can request an education consultation through your child's provider, or by contacting Gloria Jean at [email protected]

Consultations are billed through your insurance.

Referral to Developmental Behavioral Pediatrics

A completed referral form is required before an appointment can be made to see one of our providers.

To obtain the referral form for our specialty department, you can call our office at 518-262-5401 or email [email protected]

Additional Support

Navigating a diagnosis, illness, or a range of emotions can be difficult, and you may be looking for some additional reading materials or resources at home. Below you'll find a list of provider-recommended organizations and websites for a variety of topics.

Mental Health Resources for Parents & Children

General Mental Health Resources:

ADHD/Autism Resources:

Suicide/Trauma/Abuse/Self-Harm Resources/Eating Disorders:

Bullying Resources:

LGBTQ+ Resources:

Hotlines & Helplines

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255 or text 838255
Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: Call 988
Girls & Boys Town National Hotline: 1-800-448-3000
National Hopeline Network: 1-877-8-HOPENY (467369) or text HOPENY
National Youth Crisis Hotline: 1-800-442-HOPE (4673)
National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233 or text “START” to 88788
RAINN Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-656-4673
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Helpline: 1-800-950-6264 or text “helpline” to 62640
American Autism Association: 1-877-654-4483
Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration (SAMSHA) Helpline: 1-800-662-4357
National Helpline for Substance Use: 1-844-289-0879
National Eating Disorders Association Helpline: 1-800-931-2237 or text “NEDA” to 741741
Trans Lifeline: 877-565-8860 10 AM- 4AM EST
Trevor Lifeline (LGBTQ Support): 1-866-488-7386
Albany County Mobile Crisis Phone Number: 518-549-6500
Text Crisis Line: Text 741741