Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational purposes only! It’s not a substitute for talking to a counselor. So that means that if you are experiencing a crisis right now – meaning you really need to talk to someone or if you are experiencing an emergency – please call the Kids’ Helpline immediately at 716-834-1144,  toll free at 1-877-KIDS-400, or dial 911.

Counseling can help lots of people, including kids and teens. Everyone has problems in their lives,and talking to someone can be really helpful. The most important job of the Kids’ Helpline is to listen to you!

What Type Of Help Can I Expect If I Call The Kids’ Helpline?

 We help you sort out facts about your situation.
 We can help you consider practical approaches for dealing with your immediate situation.
 We listen to your thoughts and feelings.
 We are here to support you while you tell your story.
 We will accept you as the valuable human being that you are.
 We treat what you share with us as important, honest, and sincere.
 No one will judge or ridicule you.

Almost everything that you share will be kept private and confidential. The only time we have to disclose any information about you is when you could harm yourself, someone else, or if someone is hurting you.

What Are The Benefits Of Reaching Out For Help By Telephone?

 Telephone peer helping offers a unique opportunity to discuss questions and concerns.
 It’s done from the privacy and comfort of your own home, and on your own schedule.
 Sensitive topics can be easier to discuss on the telephone, rather than in person.

The service is available at any time, day or night. We’re here for you twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week!

What Can I Expect From Counseling If I’m Referred To A Professional?

Does Telephone Support Like Calling The Kids’ Helpline Really Work? Here’s what kids just like you have to say about the Kids’ Helpline:

Terrence, Age 11

I called the Kids’ Helpline when I was upset by a friend at my school that for a while was nice to me, but then started talking bad about me to other people. It seemed that no one wanted anything to do with me. I was so upset at school that I went to talk to the school counselor. I was still feeling bad at the end of the day and didn’t believe I could go to school and deal with it again tomorrow. I was afraid what people might be whispering about me. I called the Kids’ Helpline and talked with someone about my problem. The peer counselor listened to what I was feeling and offered some ideas. I was able to try them out when I was in school. It was helpful to get another kid’s perspective on a problem and to learn that it happens to others too, so I didn’t feel I was the only one.

Carla, Age 14

I heard about the Kids’ Helpline through my school and thought it might be a place I could get some help sorting through some of my personal problems. I asked the phone counselor about the confusion I had about having sex with my boyfriend. She listened to my worries about this and didn’t lecture me on sex. After talking with the counselor, I began to understand that my body is mine. I used to worry that I would lose my boyfriend because I am not ready for sex. Any guy that only wants me for sex really doesn’t care about me anyhow. He’s just using me to get what he wants. I’m really glad I called. It was nice to be able to chat with someone about this who doesn’t know me and won’t blab my business all over school.

Amanda, Age 16

I called the Kids’ Helpline because I was really confused about feelings that I was having. I think I might be gay, but I’m not sure. I didn’t want to talk to my parents about it yet, and my friends at school all expect me to be dating boys just like them. I felt weird and alone. Like nobody could understand me. After speaking with a phone counselor about my feelings, he suggested a few other resources I could contact, such as the local gay and lesbian youth group. I was able to hook up with another counselor there to talk about my identity issues and sexual orientation. They even helped me join a support group for other young people who were exploring their sexual orientation. I really appreciated talking to someone who was non-judgmental and really wanted to help me.

Why not call us today and find out about us for yourself! The Kids’ Helpline is available 24 hours a day at                  716-834-1144 or toll free at 1-877-KIDS-400.