Our trained, volunteer crisis responders
Are you looking for someone to talk to about something on your mind? Maybe it’s about school, family, work or friends, and you just don’t want to say it out loud. Kids Help Phone’s crisis responders are here for you 24/7. Below, you can get to know our crisis responders and find out how you can access their support through text whenever you need it.
It’s an unmatchable feeling knowing how many people we help as crisis responders.
— Taylor, crisis responder
Who are Kids Help Phone’s crisis responders?
Our crisis responders are trained, dedicated volunteers who are passionate about helping young people from coast to coast to coast. Our crisis responders have diverse identities and come from communities throughout the country. They include professionals, students, teachers or anybody with an Internet connection and a willingness to learn how to support people over text.
Before starting their first texting conversation, crisis responders complete 36 hours of online training. They’re trained to recognize that everyone experiences the world differently. This can be because of different identities, culture, social factors, access to mental health support and many other things. They use this understanding to move through the conversation with dignity and respect. Their number one goal is to create a safe space for you to share whatever you’d like to.
How can they support me?
To me, being a crisis responder means being compassionate and listening without judgment.
— Jessica, crisis responder
Crisis responders help support you from a hot moment to a cool calm. You can talk to them about any issue — big or small. Crisis responders show empathy and listen to you without judgment. They work with you to identify strategies to help you cope and reflect on sources of strength and community in your life. They can also share free or low cost mental health services and self-care resources with you.
To me, being a crisis responder means that you help someone feel a little less alone in the crisis or pain they are experiencing, while also empowering them to recognize their inner strength.
— Diana, crisis responder
Crisis responders are supervised by professional Kids Help Phone staff. Our supervisors have graduate or post-graduate degrees in a relevant field (e.g. social work, etc.) or they have extensive experience in crisis intervention. Everyone behind our texting service works together to help ensure you get the support you need, when you need it most.
Where can I learn more and get support?
Our crisis responders recognize that it’s brave to reach out for help. It can be scary to take the first step. When you’re ready, our crisis responders are here to provide non-judgmental support with whatever you’re going through.
Crisis responders are available 24/7 for mental health support in English or French. To get in touch, text CONNECT to 686868.
Do you identify as First Nations, Inuit or Métis? You can ask to be matched with an Indigenous crisis responder (if one is available) as you begin your conversation.
Crisis responders provide a confidential service. You can read more about what that means in our privacy policy.
