Gambling Addiction Counseling: Find Mental Health Support
In This Article
Gambling addiction counseling is a therapeutic approach aimed at helping you overcome compulsive gambling behaviors. The primary goals of this counseling are to reduce or eliminate gambling activities, address the underlying issues contributing to the addiction, and support you in rebuilding your life.
If you struggle with gambling addiction, counseling can help get things back on track.
Let’s take a look at the various types of counseling approaches, how to find a good counselor, and what to expect during sessions.
What Is Gambling Addiction Counseling?
Gambling addiction counseling provides a structured environment where you can explore the root causes of your addiction and develop effective coping strategies.
Counseling helps you recognize the severity of your condition. This aids in removing the misconception that gambling addiction is merely a lack of discipline.
Through counseling, you learn to identify and manage emotions previously numbed by gambling. You develop healthier responses to anger, anxiety, and other feelings.
Additionally, gambling addiction counseling supports you in rebuilding your life. It can lead to having a balanced and fulfilling existence beyond the grip of gambling addiction.
Types of Gambling Addiction Counseling
There are different types of gambling addiction counseling. You can even choose to undergo a combination of the counseling approaches.
See the table below to learn which one would work best for you:
| Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) | Group Therapy | Family Therapy | Individual Counseling | |
| Description | A structured, time-limited therapy that aims to change negative thought patterns and behaviors. | Therapy with a group of people who share similar issues or experiences. | Therapy involving family members to address issues impacting the family unit. | One-on-one therapy sessions are tailored to the person’s specific needs and goals. |
| Benefits | Effective for various mental health issuesFocuses on practical solutions and skills | Provides support and feedback from peersReduces feelings of isolation | Improves communication and relationshipsAddresses family dynamics | Highly personalized approachBuilds a strong therapist-client relationship |
| Typical Duration | 12-20 sessions, typically once a week | Ongoing or set duration (e.g., 8-12 weeks) | Varies, typically short-term (6-12 sessions) | Varies, can be short-term or long-term |
| Cost | Moderate to high, depending on the therapist and location | Generally lower per session than individual therapy | Moderate to high, depending on the therapist and location | High, due to personalized, one-on-one sessions |
How to Find a Gambling Addiction Counselor
A person addicted to gambling often has a preoccupation with the activity. They’re unable to stop, use gambling as an escape, and lie about gambling activities.
If you recognize these signs in yourself, finding the right addiction counselor can be crucial to having a successful recovery. They have a huge impact on your recovery.
Here’s where you can find a qualified professional who can provide the necessary support and treatment:
- Online therapy services: Online platforms offer connections to licensed therapists specializing in gambling addiction. These therapy services are convenient and can be accessed from the comfort of your home.
- Local directories: Websites allow you to find local gambling therapists. You can describe your needs, receive a list of potential therapists, and get free quotes. This platform simplifies the process by contacting suitable experts on your behalf.
- Online directory: The National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) offers a Gambling Counselor Directory that lists professionals certified by the International Gambling Counselor Certification Board (IGCCB).
- National helplines: Helplines such as the National Problem Gambling Helpline (1-800-GAMBLER) offer immediate support and referrals to local therapeutic resources.
- Local mental health clinics: Some clinics may provide outpatient, inpatient, or residential treatment programs tailored for gambling addiction.
- State-funded programs: Some states fund treatment services for compulsive gamblers through fees collected from casino properties.
- Peer support groups: Gamblers Anonymous (GA) offers a community of people who have experienced gambling problems and provides mutual support through structured programs.
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What Should You Look for in a Gambling Addiction Counselor?
A good gambling addiction counselor should offer a comprehensive plan that includes acute intervention, rehabilitation, and maintenance. This ensures that the treatment addresses immediate issues, helps in long-term recovery, and provides ongoing support to prevent relapse.
Here are some factors you can consider when choosing an addiction counselor:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) expertise: A counselor skilled in CBT can effectively reduce gambling behavior and its associated financial and emotional impacts
- Credentials and certifications: A counselor has undergone specialized training and has met rigorous standards in the field of gambling addiction when they have relevant credentials, such as the National Certified Gambling Counselor (NCGC) or the International Certified Gambling Counselor (ICGC).
- Experience with co-occurring disorders: A qualified counselor should have experience treating these co-occurring conditions to provide a more holistic approach to recovery from gambling addiction.
- Ethical and confidential practice: These are paramount in addiction counseling to create a safe and trusting environment.
- Continuous education and training: A competent counselor should engage in ongoing education and training to stay updated with the latest treatment methods and best practices. This commitment to continuous learning is often reflected in the requirement for periodic recertification.
- Support for legal and social issues: A good counselor should be equipped to help you navigate these issues, providing support and resources to address the broader impacts of your addiction.
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What to Expect During Gambling Counseling Sessions?
When seeking counseling for gambling addiction, it is helpful to know what to expect during the sessions. Here is an overview of the process, techniques used, and ongoing support:
1. Overview of Initial Sessions
The initial sessions with a gambling addiction counselor typically involve a comprehensive assessment to understand the extent of the gambling problem and its impact on your life.
You can expect to provide information on the following topics:
- Your feelings and triggers
- Your attempts to resist the urge to gamble
- Key personal information, including major stresses, recent life changes, and any other physical or mental health problems
- Any medications, vitamins, herbs, or other supplements you take, along with their dosages
2. Set Goals and Create a Treatment Plan
Based on the initial assessment, the counselor will help you set specific, attainable goals for your recovery. You will learn to identify situations that pose a high risk of relapse and develop strategies to cope with these triggers.
For long-term recovery, you’ll build a collaborative relationship with the counselor to ensure mutual trust and commitment to the treatment plan.
3. Plan for Ongoing Support
Long-term support is crucial for sustained recovery. This may include:
- Regular follow-up sessions: Periodic check-ins with the counselor to monitor progress, address any new challenges, and adjust the treatment plan as needed.
- Support groups: Participation in support groups like Gamblers Anonymous can provide ongoing peer support and accountability.
- Relapse prevention: Developing and maintaining strategies to cope with high-risk situations and prevent relapse is a key component of long-term support.
The frequency of counseling sessions for ongoing support can vary based on your needs. Typically, sessions may start weekly and then decrease in frequency as progress is made.
Remember, seeking help is the first step toward recovery. Gambling addiction counseling can offer a safe and supportive environment to address the root causes of your addiction and develop effective strategies to regain control of your life.
If you or a loved one are struggling with gambling addiction, reach out to a qualified counselor today.
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Related Articles
- “Gambling Addiction and Problem Gambling.” Helpguide.org, 2024.
- “What Is Gambling Disorder?” American Psychiatric Association, 2024.
- “What Are the Consequences of Problem Gambling?” National Council of Problem Gambling.
- Fong, T. W. ”Types of Psychotherapy for Pathological Gamblers.” Psychiatry (Edgmont), 2005.
