What Is Problem Gambling?

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Finding the most effective gambling treatment isn’t about choosing the “best” program — it’s about choosing the program that fits you. Taking time to explore your options, your preferences, and what you need to feel supported can empower you to take the next step toward control, confidence, and lasting recovery.

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Questions to Ask When Choosing a Problem-Gambling Treatment Program

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1. What types of gambling-specific treatment services do you offer?
   • Do you provide individual counselling, group therapy, peer-support meetings, family therapy, financial counselling, or other specialised services tailored to problem gambling?
   • How is support adapted to different needs (e.g. severity of gambling behaviour, co-occurring issues, life situation)?

2. Is the program accredited or certified — and are the counsellors/therapists licensed?
   • Has the program been accredited or certified by relevant authorities or recognised organisations?
   • What are the qualifications, credentials, and licensing of the therapists or counsellors who will be working with me?

3. What is the treatment approach or philosophy?
   • What therapeutic methods do you use (e.g. Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, 12-step model, Motivational Interviewing, or others)?
   • How do you assess and adapt the treatment plan over time to reflect progress, changing needs, or relapse risk?

4. What is the format and duration of the program?
   • Is the program inpatient/residential, outpatient, or structured as day treatment?
   • What is the expected length or duration of treatment, and how flexible is scheduling to accommodate work, family, or personal commitments?
   • Do you offer online or tele-health sessions for greater accessibility or convenience?

5. Is the treatment covered by insurance — or are there payment/financial-assistance options?
   • Does the program accept health insurance or other funding?
   • What are the out-of-pocket costs, and do you offer payment plans or financial assistance for those with limited means?

6. Is family involvement allowed or encouraged?
   • Do you provide family therapy or support for loved ones affected by gambling addiction?
   • Are there educational or support resources for family members, to help them understand and participate in the recovery process?

7. Is the program culturally sensitive and inclusive?
   • Does the program respect and accommodate cultural background, language, identity, or other diversity factors?
   • Are there staff or support services that understand and work effectively across different cultural or social contexts?

8. What after-care or relapse prevention support is provided?
   • Do you offer after-care services, follow-up counselling, peer-support, or relapse-prevention planning once the formal program ends?
   • How do you support long-term recovery and help prevent relapse?

9. What success rates or outcome data can you share?
   • Do you track and report outcomes — such as reductions in gambling behaviour, sustained abstinence, quality-of-life improvements, or relapse rates?
   • Are former clients available or willing to share testimonials (anonymously, if needed)?
   • How do you define “success,” and what range of outcomes have past participants experienced?

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