Start Here
Last updated October 19, 2026
If someone you love is struggling with addiction or a mental health condition, and you are not sure what to do next, start here. This page walks you through where to begin, what we offer, and what to expect. Everything we offer is free.
Jump to: Who this is for | Three first steps | What we offer | Your first group | Common questions | Get help now
You are in the right place
This page is for anyone who loves a teen, young adult, or adult child who is struggling. That includes parents, grandparents raising grandchildren, foster and adoptive parents, aunts, uncles, guardians, and siblings who stepped in.
Maybe you just found something in a backpack or a car. Maybe you got a phone call you never expected. Maybe this has been going on for years and you are worn out. Wherever you are, you do not have to carry this alone.
We are parents too. Pacer and Julie Cordry lead Prodigal Child Ministries because one of their own children struggles with addiction and a mental health condition. The people you will meet here understand, without you having to explain.
Three first steps
1. Talk to a parent. Call 678-878-8324 or email info@prodigalchildministries.org. You will reach a parent who has walked this road. There are no forms and no pressure.
2. Find a group. Our faith-based support groups meet in person and on Zoom. There are groups for parents, for brothers and sisters, and for families grieving a loss. Groups are free, and most ask you to register with the facilitator first. See support groups →
3. Come hear a speaker. Wisdom in the Waiting brings counselors and other professionals to Browns Bridge Church in Cumming, usually twice a month. It is free, and you do not need to register. Just come. Learn about Wisdom in the Waiting →
What we offer
Parents of Prodigals support groups. In person and on Zoom, built around our For Parents By Parents curriculum.
Hope After a Prodigal Loss. A Christ-centered grief group for families who have lost someone they love.
Supporting Our Siblings (S.O.S.). An online group for anyone with a brother or sister affected by addiction.
Wisdom in the Waiting. A speaker series where professionals teach on topics parents need to know.
Weekend retreats. A weekend to rest, refocus, and refuel with other parents, offered at no cost. See retreats →
Resources. Drug Trends, Counselors & Programs, Recommended Reading, and Stories from other families.
All of it is free to families. People who care about this work give so that it stays that way.
What to expect at your first group
Walking into a room of strangers is hard, especially when you are hurting. Here is what usually happens:
A facilitator, often a parent who has been where you are, welcomes you.
Most meetings include a short lesson and time to talk.
You can share as much or as little as you want, or simply listen.
This is a place without judgment, for you or for your child.
For many parents, it is the first time they realize they are not alone.
Wondering about cost, faith, or privacy? Read our answers to common questions →
Get help now
PCM is a support ministry, not a crisis service. If you are worried about someone’s safety right now:
Emergency: call 911.
Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: call or text 988.
SAMHSA National Helpline: call 1-800-662-4357. Free, confidential, 24/7 treatment referral and information.
When the crisis has passed, we are here. Call 678-878-8324 or email info@prodigalchildministries.org.