A. The Parental Stress Line is a toll-free, confidential helpline for parents who need to discuss issues related to their children.  Trained volunteer counselors answer the Parental Stress Line and offer support, empathy, encouragement, information, referrals, and crisis intervention. We are here for you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

“Thank you so much for the encouragement. I have some good ideas to work with now."

A. Any parent or caregiver raising children 18 and under may call the Parental Stress Line.

A. Trained volunteer telephone counselors who are sympathetic and non-judgmental.

A.Building rewarding relationships with children is a tremendous but worthwhile challenge. At times it can feel frustrating and overwhelming. Many parents find it helpful to call the Parental Stress Line to vent feelings, discuss next steps or find local resources. Many parents feel nervous when calling the Parental Stress Line for the first time, but quickly realize that the Parental Stress Line is a helpful resource to help sort out parenting issues without being judged or criticized.Just remember that your courage and commitment to reach out for support will improve your family’s life.

“I really can’t tell you how much talking has saved my sanity”

A. No. The Parental Stress Line is a toll-free service

A. Yes.However, a counselor may ask you to call back at a certain time when a translator will be available.

A. At Parents Helping Parents we feel that parents are the experts -- at least when it comes to their own families. Parental Stress Line counselors help parents to identify their own strategies based on their own strengths. Rather than advice, the Parental Stress Line offers information, resources, support and a listening ear when times get rough.

“I needed someone who would just listen to me without telling me what I should have done or what I have done wrong. Thank you so much for listening. I feel a lot better.”

A. Appropriate child discipline; babies who won't go to sleep; single parent stress; constant yelling at home; an ADHD child; marital problems; out of control child; children who won't listen; disagreement with a spouse about household rules; rebellious children; D.S.S. involvement; teens who are skipping school; a belief in the myth of the "perfect parent;" and no one to talk to who could possibly understand....just for a start.

"Thank you for easing my mind. I was so upset, but I feel calmer now."

A. The Parental Stress Line is not a substitute for long-term therapy; it is a helpline for dealing with immediate parenting issues. Telephone Counselors will help callers process their feelings surrounding the issues and assist in problem solving. Many parents find that the Parental Stress Line can be a supplement to ongoing therapy and services.

A. Absolutely. You will never be asked to divulge personal information such as name and phone number unless there is an immediate threat of harm. To learn more about our policy, read our Statement of Confidentiality.

A. Yes.However, our list of services is limited to Massachusetts. If you call from out-of-state, a counselor may offer you information on a helpline in your state.