Tri County CMO of New Jersey .:. Providing Family Care Services, Parenting Education, Interdisciplinary Support, and Community Assistance

Fathering in a Family With a Child With Behavioral and Mental Health Challenges

The Tri-County CMO (TCCMO), as part of its community outreach mission, initiated a Fathering Group.  Its focus was on the overall role of fathers in parenting and specifically on how fathers can best support children with mental health and behavioral issues.  With priority given to fathers of children in the NJ System of Care Initiative, the group welcomed men caring for children with behavioral and mental health challenges in the Tri-County region (Hunterdon, Somerset, Warren).

Two consistent need themes emerged:  1) strengthening parenting skills through peer support, and 2) recognition of and expressed need for a safe and nurturing space enabling men to discuss fulfillment of their needs and wants relative to the many roles they hold.  Thus began the search for a venue which would meet these needs, as well as lend support and direction in navigating challenges and celebrating strengths inherent in men’s multiple roles.  A local not-for-profit organization “Men Mentoring Men (M3)” was identified and assessed as meeting these needs.  Following is the What→Who→Where→More Info of M3:

What:  M3 is a non-profit organization that provides a safe and supportive venue for men to discuss and explore fulfillment and expression of their needs, wants and capabilities unique to their multiple roles as fathers, husbands/partners, friends, caregivers, defenders, protectors, healers, creators, builders, visionaries and wise elders.

Who*:  M3 invites men who are healthy and searching for more meaning, connection and growth in their lives.  Though it does not provide therapy or is appropriate for men with psychological issues best addressed by clinical resources, it serves as an effective support for men in therapy.

Where:  M3 offers four ongoing groups in two locations:  Somerville, NJ and Lambertville, NJ.  Bi-monthly meetings are self-supporting, peer led by experienced leaders and include time for appreciations, conversation pertinent to members present, individual focus and opportunity for group feedback.  Additional information about the organization can be accessed via its website www.mthree.org.

More Info:  For inquiries or to participate in M3, please contact Dr. Richard Horowitz, Executive Director of the TCCMO, at 908-526-3900 x114 or email rhorowitz@tricountycmo.org. 

*Priority given to fathers of youth in the New Jersey System of Care Initiative and also welcomes men caring for children with behavioral and mental health challenges in the Tri-County region (Hunterdon, Somerset, Warren).