Treatment programs
The center treated men, women, older adults and teens. Every new client started with an individual assessment and a look at the family or social support around them. An individual treatment plan followed, and the client was referred to the program that matched the level of care needed.
Assessment services
Although problem gamblers and families affected by gambling have certain experiences in common, each client is unique. Recovery began when the client met a trained staff member who evaluated the client's issues, needs and functioning in several areas. The assessment included an interview, a gambling screen and a psychological and psychometric evaluation. If the results showed a need for further help, referrals could be made for medication evaluations or other specialized services.
Individualized treatment
Staff tailored treatment plans to each client. Many clients took part in intensive treatment for several weeks; others needed less frequent sessions. Counseling typically ran over six months, and programs were offered at more than one location.
Programs
Assessment
A clinical interview, a gambling screen, a psychological and psychometric evaluation and, where indicated, an interview with family members. Special attention went to the nature, progression and severity of the gambling problem and to possible cross addiction or co-occurring problems. Assessment was treated as an ongoing process, and plans changed as needs changed.
Individual therapy
One-to-one counseling built on a treatment plan tailored to the client's needs and level of care.
Family therapy
Problem gambling can have tragic consequences for the entire family, and family members may also need treatment; they were involved in counseling when appropriate.
Group therapy
Weekly group therapy as part of the treatment plan.
Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)
Intensive treatment over several weeks for clients who needed a higher level of care.
Psycho-educational group
Education about compulsive gambling and recovery in a group setting.
Relapse prevention training
Training to recognize early relapse indicators and to stay in recovery.
Referral to self-help groups
Introduction to self-help groups such as Gamblers Anonymous: freedom from problem gambling was seen as best achieved through individualized care combined with self-help.
Community consultation and education
Besides clinical services, the center offered community consultation and education programs.
Research
Center staff conducted basic and applied research to further the knowledge, understanding and treatment of problem gambling.
Are you losing your life to gambling?
- Are you frequently gambling longer than planned?
- Are you lying to others about your gambling?
- Are you wanting to go back as soon as possible or continue gambling and win back your money?
- Are you gambling with increasing amounts of money?
If your answer is "yes" to any of these questions, you may have a gambling problem.
Forms of gambling the center treated
- Casino gambling
- Playing the lottery
- Sports betting
- Day trading
- Racetrack betting
- Playing Bingo