Assessment

Through this process, it is determined if an individual meets the criteria for a diagnosis of compulsive gambling. During the process, collateral data is collected from spouses, significant others, family members and other pertinent sources in order to make an accurate recommendation and referral. If a compulsive diagnosis is made, then we will determine which level of care will best meet the individual’s needs.

If the individual does not meet the dependency criteria, we will recommend what the individual may do in response to the circumstances that required assessment.

Individual Therapy

The first step in individual therapy is to develop an individualized treatment plan. Individual sessions may also be used to discuss issues that are sensitive and not for the group setting. Family sessions and discharge planning may occur in individual therapy as well.

Group Therapy

Led by a licensed counselor, group therapy is the primary method used to bring about awareness of the destructiveness of compulsive gambling. Peer support is a major force in helping someone recover. Groups usually consist of 8 to 10 members, all of whom have been diagnosed as compulsive gamblers. Sessions usually run ninety minutes to two hours, and groups meet four evenings per week for six weeks.

Family Therapy

Compulsive gambling involves each family member. In our experience, recovery can be achieved with the consistent, active involvement of all family members.

To help foster this involvement, a special family program is offered on Wednesday night for two hours. Lectures and groups are designed to help families understand compulsive gambling and to guide families toward recovery.

Phase II Recovery Management

Sustaining recovery is a life-long process. This continuation of the treatment process meets on a biweekly basis once the client has been discharged from the primary treatment program. Studies have shown that the longer an individual can maintain a relationship with the treatment program, the better the chances are for recovery.

Phase II recovery groups usually involve the primary treatment counselor and other clients who have completed the program. Focusing on the recovery process, Phase II is invaluable in helping clients maintain the progress they made in primary treatment. The treatment plan that was previously started will continue through Phase II, and new goals and plans of action that are focused on present situations will be added.