A New York program was developed in response to a written request by a prison inmate to WISH (Women-In-Self-Help), a volunteer telephone support program. Of 14 inmates who have participated in the program, incarceration upon entering the group ranged from 6 months to 13 years. The women represent all ethnic and socioeconomic groups, although most are poor and black and range in age from 20 to 54 years. Motives for each woman's crime differ but for all participants the common denominator is that they have suffered the loss of a child. The most striking effect upon a woman entering the group is her surprise and relief to discover that she is not the only one in prison responsible for the death of a child. Case studies of some of the women indicate that the peer self-help program enabled them to confront their loss, a negative self-image, and destructive behavior patterns. Five identifiable phases in the group process resulting in these gains were isolation reduction, emotional acceptance of responsibility for the crime, mourning the loss, identification of destructive patterns in dealing with negative feelings, and development of constructive alternatives for negative patterns. Follow-up of paroled women indicates their positive community adjustment. 8 references. (Author abstract modified)