No, I haven't tried it, but next time I am drunk and weepy at midnight (let's see, that's about 12 hours from now) I might.
I think you just call and if there is someone there, you've got them.
As for skill--I don't know, but really--it comes down to someone asking the questions and making you answer them. Not allowing the "buts". I think they would be skillful enough to be at least helpful, and not hurtful.
Good for you to dig into your past and see what is resonating now in your life. Painful, but I guess it is necessary. I'm glad your mom is able to open up about it.
