AN INFORMATION RESOURCE FOR MEMBERS OF THE NATIONAL COUNCIL ON PROBLEM GAMBLING SPRING 2011 • VOL. 14, ISSUE 1 President’s Message: Some Closing Thoughts This will be my last message to our membership as and money) is critical to this process. On a parallel level, the Mem president of the NCPG Board of Directors. As we bership Committee has been busy surveying your wants and needs. prepare for the 25th anniversary of our national We have ambitious goals for increasing our membership base so that conference in Boston a few thoughts and more we can expand our services, both internally and with the world beyond than a few feelings come to mind. the NCPG. We wish that we could celebrate the enactment of Keith recently shared a link to the U.K. Responsible Gambling the Comprehensive Problem Gambling Act that Strategy Board (www.rgsb.org.uk) that can serve as a template for we have worked on so hard for so long. It would expanded NCPG efforts to bring together all stakeholders to develop have been nice to watch President Obama sign a new piece of legisla a nationwide strategy to ensure prevention, education, treatment and tion that would further reinforce our mission. But these are challeng research programs and services for problem gamblers and their families ing economic and political times, especially for new programs on are widely available. Obviously passage of our legislation would stigmatized issues. Despite those difficulties, we have come a good have been a wonderful start, but we still need to expand our vision distance to finally attaining Federal recognition, bolstering efforts at and efforts. We are setting a more powerful stage and the various the state level and more directly impacting the lives of those negatively elements are falling into a great place. Again we need your involvement affected by gambling. We will continue to press ahead with hopes of at and energy. least finding our place in SAMHSA and other Federal programs. As I move off the Board, I would like to thank our staff for their in We have taken a significant step in hiring Barbara Rollins as our new credible efforts, energy and commitment. If you will not be able to Director for Development and Membership. She has been interview attend our conference in Boston, take a moment to send an email to ing Board members and emphasizing that relationships are fundamen staff and thank them for their being there and for giving more than we tal to any development and membership program. We need all of you can know. I would also like to thank all the current and past Board to be open to Barbara’s requests for perspective, history and relation members and committee chairs and members for making this a ships. We are on the cusp of moving in a more dynamic direction and smooth year and a half. The collective energy and spirit of all has made your involvement in helping us identify support (passion, energy, skills (President, continued on page 2)
Executive Director’s Letter: The Path of Progress The 25th National Con learn from our history, we must also focus on special membership prices and activities; ference on Problem the future. Even as gambling is rapidly ex unprecedented hotel rates extending through Gambling will be held panding it is significantly evolving. The prob the July 4th weekend in one of America’s July 1 – 2, 2011 at the lem gambling field must continue to innovate most historic cities; and extensive social events Park Plaza Hotel in as well, finding new ways to provide ever- and family activities including a Friday night Boston, MA. The vision more effective prevention, education, treat authentic New England clambake on Georges ary band of pioneers who ment, enforcement and research programs. Island in Boston Harbor. I look forward to met at John Jay College The only guarantee is that in 25 years our seeing you in Boston! in New York City for the field will look completely different. I hope first national conference on problem gam you will make plans to come to the National bling could hardly have imagined the twists Conference and take advantage of the 60 and turns along the road to Boston a quarter pre- and regular-conference sessions; unparal Keith Whyte century later. But while we must honor and leled networking with peers and pioneers; Executive Director
NPGAW CPGTSP Adolescent E-Tool Grief, Self- 2011 Launched Longitudinal Identifies Esteem and Update Study Gambling Gambling
inside 3 6 8 10 Disorders 13 (President, continued from page 1) Join Us at the Annual National Conference my service well worth the few moments of Submitted by: Barbara Rollins frustration. I really appreciate the support that Please join us for the 25th National Conference on Problem Gambling, July 1 – 2, 2011 in you have all given to sustain the mission and Boston, MA. For a quarter of a century, the conference has brought together leaders in preven vision of the NCPG. tion, education, treatment, responsible gaming, research and recovery to present the latest More than a footnote, we are all saddened by developments in their fields. Whether you are a seasoned professional or a newcomer to gam the recent passing of G. Alan Marlatt, PhD. bling issues, you will find more than 75 presentations — from plenaries to posters — packed As you all know he took many courageous with high-quality information. steps as Director of the Addictive Behaviors Based on popular demand we’ve added two full days of intensive skill-building pre-conference Research Center, University of Washington, workshops. The Live Learning Center option offers synchronized audio and PowerPoint access to help us all understand the recovery process to over 40 hours of content so you won’t miss a session. There are several registration options, in a sensitive and compassionate fashion. He (www.ncpgambling.org/registration) including pre-conference workshops only and one-day spoke at several of our national conferences conference rate. Please note: NCPG members receive reduced rates for conference registration. and we will miss his wry humor and incisive judgment. We had the opportunity to share Special attractions: “the gambling piece” over the years and he • NCPG National Awards will be missed. Fortunately he has left us with • Friday Keynote speaker: a living legacy with several top notch con Howard Shaffer, PhD tributors to the field here at the University of • Saturday: Members-Only Washington (Mary Larimer, PhD, Ruby Reception with Board of Takushi, PhD and Ty Lostutter, PhD). For Directors a nice summary, please go to this link: (http:// • Saturday Lunch Plenary depts.washington.edu/abrc/marlatt.htm). Speakers: Pioneers in the I look forward to seeing you in Boston! Field – Chuck Maurer, PhD, Kathy Scanlan, Marvin Steinberg, PhD Charles Maurer, PhD Boston is an attractive, President, NCPG Board of Directors accessible and affordable destination. We look for ward to seeing you during the 4th of July weekend for four days of exciting speak National News ers, practical solutions, NATIONAL COUNCIL ON PROBLEM GAMBLING serious networking and great fun (clambake, anyone?) The National News is published by the with leaders and stakehold National Council on Problem Gambling ers from across the country. 730 11th Street, NW, Suite 601 Register by May 31 to get Washington, DC 20001 the specially-arranged dis 202-547-9204 count hotel rate. To register for the conference, visit www.ncpgambling.org/conference or to Fax 202-547-9206 reserve your room, visit www.ncpgambling.org/2011hotel. [email protected] Sign up on our discussion forum for ‘Boston Buzz’ postings — we welcome thoughts and www.ncpgambling.org advice from conference veterans, Boston travelers, and new colleagues along with all stake holders. Executive Director Keith Whyte Have you renewed your membership? Director of Administration Become a member of NCPG or renew your membership now in order to take full advantage of Linda Abonyo the $100 discount on conference rates that is available exclusively to members. In addition, you receive an invitation to the Members’ Lunch (Thursday, June 30, during the Pre-Confer Director of Development/Membership ence Workshops), full voting rights, a subscription to Addiction Professional, discounts on other Barbara Rollins literature, and a member certificate suitable for framing — in addition to knowing that you are Program Manager supporting the national unified voice on problem gambling. Your membership pays for itself Megan Larsen with the discount on the conference alone, providing a savings of $100. Join or renew now! To join, see form on page 7 or visit www.ncpgambling.org/membership. Administrative Assistant Melissa Eckenrode
2 National Council on Problem Gambling NPGAW 2011 Report One of the most successful campaigns to date; reaching international level Submitted by: Megan Larsen National Problem Gambling Awareness Week (NPGAW) is a grass activities supporting NPGAW. For example, the Colorado Lottery held roots campaign designed to educate the general public and health care an online campaign, reached out to the public through their retailers professionals about the warning signs of problem gambling and raise and distributed PSAs. Potawatomi Bingo Casino provided activities for awareness about the help that is available both locally and nationally. their guests related to Problem Gambling and distributed information, did a postcard mailing, and distributed PSAs. the Florida Council on NPGAW 2011 was one of the most successful campaigns to date. Compulsive Gambling had over two dozen Florida municipalities join National press release and television and radio PSAs were distributed them in their campaign, created a website dedicated to NPGAW, by the National Council on Problem Gambling, and many other distributed a press release and much more. Eastern Connecticut State organizations created their own grassroots campaigns. A National University declared their Spring semester “National Gambling Aware release was published 232 times in the days leading up to, during, and ness Semester.” There were many additional participants and each just after NPGAW. There was a spike in attention to the issue of Prob one’s efforts were wonderful. We are thrilled with the support of lem Gambling before and during NPGAW, which leads us to believe NPGAW 2011! that the week was being promoted well by all of its supporters. The PSA was broadcast 194 times in 21 different states. NPGAW is also If you have not yet shared your NPGAW 2011 activities with us, reaching an international level. Six different countries were reached please do so at www.ncpgambling.org/activities. To view a full list of through the National release. activities and participants for the week, please visit the Participants page at www.NPGAW.org. Over 27 Councils, lotteries, casinos, schools and more reported their
A National release was published 232 times and reached over 6 countries. The National PSA distributed by NCPG was broadcast 194 times in 21 different states with an audience of 42,805,937.
Toll-Free Helpline (800) 522-4700 3 Introducing NCPG’s Newest Staff Member
Barbara Rollins has been named to the new position of Director of tant for the Arts and Humanities Council of Montgomery County, Development and Membership for the NCPG. She brings years of MD and was the Managing Director for a small theatre in West Vir development experience, most recently as Director of Annual Giving ginia. In addition, she has served as an agent in class fundraising for and Membership at Imagination Stage in Bethesda, MD. Dartmouth College and on the Board of the Dartmouth Club of Washington, DC. Ms. Rollins previously worked as a professional “I am proud to be part of the effort to provide funding for the increas stage manager in regional theatre, including at Arena Stage in Wash ingly important national advocacy needed to improve public awareness ington, DC. She holds a MA in Arts Administration from Goucher of problem gambling and its treatment, especially with recently inten College and a BA in Theatre from Dartmouth College. sified efforts to create new gambling venues across the country as a way to plug gaps in budgets of all kinds.” At NCPG, Ms. Rollins works with the Board, staff and stakeholders to energize the Membership program and seek increased funding for the At Imagination Stage Ms. Rollins was instrumental in creating and annual conference and the organization from individuals and corpora implementing a new membership program and was also responsible tions. Barbara Rollins email address is [email protected]. for producing the annual fundraising gala. She has served as a consul
Take a Tour of Boston During the National Conference Submitted by: Margot Cahoon The Massachusetts Council on Compulsive Gambling encourages people attending the 25th National Conference on Problem Gambling, July 1 – 2, 2011 to enjoy all that Boston has to offer. In honor of your visit, Council staff members and Board members want to take you to some of their favorite places, and have developed several “tours” for the evening of Saturday, July 2. Whether you’re interested in a thematic guided tour of Boston’s Chinatown neighborhood, which highlights the cultural vibrancy and the rich immigrant and ethnic heritage of the community, and is concluded with dinner at East Ocean City, a Hong Kong style seafood restaurant, or you want to take a guided walk to Faneuil Hall Market Place, alive with music, street performers, shopping, history and restaurants and taverns, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Traveling with young children (age 8 and under)? You are invited on a special tour of the Public Garden to see the Make Way for Duckling statues, and to the Boston Common to play at the Frog Pond/Playground. From there, families will visit the seals outside the New England Aquarium, ride the carousel, run through “the jumping water” and get ice cream. Of course, while in New England you may also want to take the Boston waterfront tour, and stop for dinner outside at the Daily Catch in the new Federal Courthouse on the Fan Pier for Sicilian style sea food. Tours of Boston’s North End, the Boston Marathon, Boston Common and the Massachusetts State House, Harvard Square and a Boston Duck Tour will also be offered. Visit the Massachusetts Council on Compulsive Gambling website: www.masscompulsivegambling. org to learn more and reserve your spot today! There is no charge for these tours and meals/refreshments are self-pay.
4 National Council on Problem Gambling Hulen’s Hope First in the Nation Gambling-Specific Primary Treatment Program for Women Submitted by: Adrienne Shumway The first gambling-specific The program at Hulen’s Hope is recom primary care program for mended 30 – 90 days, with a minimum female gamblers in recov 30-day commitment. All therapy is provided ery in the United States is off-site at ABC Wellness Centre. This pro now accepting clients as gram is designed for adult women 18 years of of May 1st. Located in age and older whose primary concern is path Scottsdale, Arizona, Hu ological gambling and who can demonstrate len’s Hope is dedicated to the commitment and motivation to partici the memory of Don pate in the full program and all recommended Hulen whose support and activities. If applicable, it is understanding of the necessary for a prospective female gambler will never resident to have completed be forgotten. With the a co-occurring alcohol and vision of women mentor drug treatment program ing women and a full schedule of needs based before admission into Hu services, Hulen’s Hope provides the environ len’s Hope. All prescription ment needed for women to build sustained medication and manage recovery. In addition to mental health coun ment must be stabilized and seling, financial counseling, spiritual counsel all residents must be able to ing, nutritional and exercise programs and self-administer medication. vocational services are all offered. Hulen’s Hulen’s Hope is designed to Hope stresses holistic treatment with a resi meet the needs of adult dential component that allows women to women who desire a safe learn and incorporate new and healthy life or have passed on. It has long been recognized and supportive environment that is harmoni style choices. that women need a program all their own; a ous with building a new addiction-free life program that does not put them in a situation Female problem and compulsive gamblers style. The Hulen’s Hope home accommodates to care take, but instead provides a supportive require a different kind of care than male individuals who are willing to embrace and environment where they can deal with the gamblers. While there are similarities, gam practice a healthy life of balance and commit driving force behind their addiction. Usually bling addiction seems to hit women harder ment to the recovery process. these women have experienced some form of and faster than men. In general, women’s trauma, abuse, or neglect, and successful For any further information about Hulen’s gambling progresses into addiction faster, they treatment needs to address these issues. Until Hope, please contact Adrienne Shumway at drain their financial resources faster, and they now, there was no such program for female (480) 991-9818. often have fewer resources to seek treatment. gamblers in the United States. More often than not, their spouses have left
National News Submissions Note from the Editor NCPG encourages submissions for the newsletter from its We would like to say “Thank You” to all the Members listed members. Min. Words: 150/Max. Words: 1,000. below who have graciously taken the time out of their busy and hectic schedules to write an article or submit an ad for this Submissions must be received by August 10, 2011 for the next newsletter. If we have by chance forgotten to mention your issue. Send your submission via email to name, we sincerely apologize in advance! [email protected] or mail to: NCPG, Attn: Melissa Eckenrode, Margot Cahoon Mitchell Wallick 730 11th Street, NW, Suite 601, Terri Sue Canale Holly Wetzel Washington, DC 20001. Silvia Martins Arnie Wexler Chuck Maurer Kathleen Zamperini Questions? Contact Melissa at 202- Adrienne Shumway 547-9204 or melissae@ ncpgambling.org.
Toll-Free Helpline (800) 522-4700 5 Real Voices
I came across this gone and what a person can do with that kind again and I will leave all my credit cards site and decided to of money. Why did I do that? Not sure, but I and money at home and only bring what I share my story have somewhat of an idea, but nowhere to can afford. hoping that by turn. Most programs are not free and I have I only took a little cash, but because I had reading it over my- no insurance, but this site gave me enough my credit cards, I used them also; it was like self it might help thought to know I have a problem. Why is it, a landslide. be a start for me after thought and reading help literature, is it to stop gambling. too late? Why did it take getting to this point I won't make it until payday either and now I to make the point in my mind. If anyone out am very depressed and have no money to do I sat in my car the there has been through this I am sorry for your the things I was suppose to. other day in tears pain and I feel it and gambling are not worth. and in shock. I Some one once told me, "Gambling once in a went gambling and spent my money — over Now I have to figure out how to pay my rent while and only taking what you can afford to $1,500 I had saved for rent, hair, nails, grocer- and I have a child. I did make a pact with spend is entertainment and anything else will ies, clothes all of it down to my last $20 bucks. myself that I will not step into another casino destroy your life!” Yes I think so. Today I just sit here numb, not knowing what until I have my life together emotionally and Hugs, K to do and looking back at how much money is financially. I also will never ever go alone
California Problem Gambling Treatment Services Program Submitted by: Terri Sue Canale The California Department of Alcohol and Drug Programs (ADP), wide variety of Californians. This brief intervention is conducted by Office of Problem Gambling (OPG), launched a new treatment licensed mental health professionals. Services extend into rural areas program known as the California Problem Gambling Treatment where there is difficulty in accessing outpatient providers. English Services Program (CPGTSP). This stepped-care approach to treating speaking clients have a cumulative participation total of 159; Spanish and preventing problem and pathological gambling is a 3-year pilot speaking a cumulative participation total of 16; and Chinese speaking program and the first state-funded gambling treatment program in a cumulative participation total of 6. California’s history. OPG has held two successful training summits. The summits provide The components of the program consist of: Training, Provider Treat insight and education about problem and pathological gambling be ment Network, Clinical Innovation Program, Problem Gambling haviors and their consequences, alternative approaches to treatment Telephone Intervention (PGTI) and a Training Summit. methodologies and modalities while enhancing public awareness and professional development. The focus of provider training is to increase the number of licensed mental health practitioners specializing in treating California residents To support prevention and treatment efforts a comprehensive data affected by problem gambling behaviors. Over 300 mental health management system was purchased. The system provides case manage providers have completed training by nationally recognized expert ment, provider and workforce management, compliance monitoring, problem gambling trainers. The approved Accelerated Providers, online provider applications, reporting infrastructure, fiscal manage Providers and Supervisors speak 29 different languages. The languages ment, evaluation logic and messaging and communication capabilities. spoken are English, Arabic, American Sign Language (ASL), Can The 2006 California Problem Gambling Prevalence Study identified tonese, Chinese, Croatian, Dutch, Farsi, French, German, Greek, the overall lifetime prevalence rate of problem and pathological gam Hebrew, Hindi, Italian, Japanese, Kiswahili, Korean, Mandarin, bling in California as 3.7 percent, which translates to 1,367,581 (2009 Norwegian, Punjabi, Russian, Serbian, Spanish, Swedish, Tagalog, census) citizens. The study also revealed that California has been rated Taiwanese, Teo-Chow, Toishanese, and Vietnamese. at the higher end of the range of prevalence rates identified in other The Provider Network consists of Outpatient Treatment, Intensive U.S. jurisdictions second only to Nevada. Experts say treatment saves Outpatient Treatment, and Residential Treatment. To-date there are money; every $1 spent on treatment save more than $2 in social ser 55 active Outpatient clients; 7 active Intensive Outpatient clients; vices costs (Oregon Department of Human Services). 4 active Residential clients; and 10 Outpatient Affected Individuals. Under the direction of Deputy Director Terri Sue Canale, OPG hopes The Clinical Innovation Program is conducting and evaluating the the success of the program will help to reduce the prevalence rate of effectiveness of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) based treatment problem and pathological gambling and make a positive difference in (Therapist Manual and Patient Workbook) for pathological gamblers. the life of the problem and pathological gambler, as well as, their fam Currently there are 35 actively enrolled in the study with a cumulative ily and their community. total of 54 having participated. Please visit OPG’s redesigned website at www.problemgambling.ca.gov Telephone intervention utilizes numerous problem gambling helpline or call 1-916-327-8611 should you have any questions. services to provide assistance in English, Spanish, and Chinese to a
6 National Council on Problem Gambling National Council on Problem Gambling NATIONAL HELPLINE 1-800-522-4700 24 Hour Confidential
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Toll-Free Helpline (800) 522-4700 7 National Helpline Report 1st Quarter 2011
Each quarter in the National News, the National Council on Problem 26,000 calls placed to the National Helpline; an 11% increase from Gambling will provide an overview of the calls placed to the National April 2010. Problem Gambling Helpline Network (800-522-4700) for the previous The National Problem Gambling Helpline Network is a 24/7, 100% months along with a summary of the total calls received year-to-date. confidential resource that provides hope and help to problemg amblers The National Problem Gambling Helpline Network is a single nation and their loved ones. The helpline number (800-522-4700) can be wide point of access network comprised of 26 call centers, with several dialed toll free anytime and anywhere in the United States as well as centers answering calls for multiple states. Each call center is staffed from various parts of Canada and the U.S. Virgin Islands. with professionals who are fully trained to deal with problem gambling calls, including those in crisis situations. National Helpline Calls – 2011 vs 2010 1st Quarter Since January 2011, the National Helpline has over 97,900 calls. The 26,500 month of April has depicted the highest call volume thus far with over 2011 Data 2010 Data Helpline Network Call Volume – 1st Quarter 2011 26,000
26,349 26,500 2011 Data 26,109 25,500 2010 Data 26,000
25,339 25,000 25,500 25,121
25,000 24,712 24,611 24,500
24,500 24,000 24,000
23,500 23,500 Jan Feb Mar Jan Feb Mar
Compounded Effects of Early Adolescence Depressive Symptoms and Impulsivity on Late Adolescence Gambling: A Longitudinal Study Submitted by: Silvia S. Martins
Grace Lee, a doctoral student in our research group, recently published with high depressive symptoms, increases in impulsivity decreased the a paper in the Journal of Adolescent Health on predictors of adolescent odds of problem gambling while among those with high impulsivity, gambling that certainly will be of interest to NCPG membership. increases in depressive symptoms decreased the odds of problem gam Studies indicate increased depressive symptoms and impulsivity among bling. Such findings suggest that depressive symptoms exhibited as problem gamblers compared to social and nongamblers. Although early as middle school could be associated with late adolescence prob both depression and impulsivity have individually been found to be lem gambling. Therefore, early adolescence could be a point of entry related to problem gambling, little is known about the combined for interventions in that youths observed to be depressed by teachers or effects of both on adolescent gambling. The current study examined counselors receive referrals to cognitive behavioral therapy where they the combined effect of depressive symptoms and impulsivity in early can learn adaptive coping strategies to deal with their environmental adolescence on late adolescence gambling behaviors among an urban and familial stressors. Such therapy could lower their depressive symp longitudinal cohort of 678 students from Baltimore, Maryland. Prob tom, odds of gambling initiation, and other adverse outcomes, such as lem gamblers were 12 percent of the sample, 87.5 percent of who were suicide and substance use. males and 12.5 percent were females. Due to the lower number of This study was funded by the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Insti female problem gamblers, subsequent analyses focused only on males. tute of Child and Human Development, National Institutes of Health Compared to nongamblers and social gamblers, depressive symptoms (NICHD-NIH, Principal Investigator: Dr. Silvia S. Martins). increased the odds of problem gambling by four-fold. Among those
8 National Council on Problem Gambling Kathleen Scanlan Leaves Massachusetts Council after 24 Years Submitted by: Margot Cahoon
On March 18, 2011, Kathleen M. Scanlan “When Thomas N. Cummings founded the Mass. Council on Com retired from her position as Executive pulsive Gambling in 1983, help for a gambling problem was difficult Director of the Massachusetts Council on to find. Tom’s initiative assured that services would be available to help Compulsive Gambling. families and individuals who were struggling. When Tom died in January of 1998, I became concerned that his good work might come Under her leadership, Ms. Scanlan led to an end, and decided to assure that the Council was as stable as the organization in achieving many mile possible before moving on. Today the Council is a mature organization stones in collaboration with the Massa on solid ground and poised to grow. I am happy to hand it over to a chusetts Department of Public Health, new leader who can continue to help people with gambling problems Harvard Medical School and other agen and take the Council into the future with new skills, new ideas, and a cies. A sampling of those projects include new vision,” said Scanlan. the development of Practice Guidelines for Treating Gambling Related Problems, the first evidence-based guide “While looking forward to enjoying whatever the next phase might lines for clinicians treating problem gambling; and the creation of bring for me, I will miss seeing individuals and families regain their Your First Step to Change, a self-directed guidebook for people with lives, their happiness, their health, and their productivity through gambling problems who are not able to access traditional modes overcoming a gambling problem. I will also miss the rewarding inter of treatment. actions with colleagues, partners, collaborators, and allies that I have enjoyed tremendously,” Kathleen concluded. Ms. Scanlan strengthened the Council’s infrastructure through the development of policies and procedures, advocated for and secured For an opportunity to wish Kathy well and congratulate her on her state funding for problem gambling services in Massachusetts through many years of leadership, the Council will host a special reception the legislative budget process. Kathleen has also been recognized as a in her honor at the National Conference in Boston on the evening leader in the field; honored by the New England Collaborative on of June 30, 2011. For more information, please contact the Massa Problem Gambling in 2002 and as the recipient of the National Coun chusetts Council on Compulsive Gambling at 617-426-4554 or cil on Problem Gambling’s Distinguished Program Award in 2001. [email protected].
Massachusetts Council Announces New Executive Director Submitted by: Margot Cahoon
Rodney Hoffman, President of the Board According to Hoffman, “In her years with the Council, Marlene has of the Massachusetts Council on Compul grown as much as the work of the Council has grown. She has the sive Gambling, is pleased to announce that confidence of both her colleagues and the Board and is well-respected Marlene Warner, a resident of Salem, has in the field. We have no doubt that Marlene will continue to build been named the new Executive Director of upon the Council’s leadership in the field to promote awareness, pre the organization. vention and treatment, but most of all to help people experiencing problems with gambling.” Ms. Warner has worked at the Council for 10 years as Program Director. During that “It is a real pleasure and an honor to follow in the footsteps of Kathy time, she has helped the nonprofit organi Scanlan and prior to her, Tom Cummings. I will work diligently to zation to achieve many objectives includ uphold the respect and hard work that they both delivered to make the ing: offering both online and regional Council what it is today,” said Warner. training opportunities for clinicians, ex For more information about Ms. Warner or the Massachusetts Council panding the Helpline to offer live chat, on Compulsive Gambling, please call 617-426-4554 or visit www. working with financial services industries and the corrections commu masscompulsivegambling.org. nity to help individuals understand the impact of problem gambling, and developing more programs and services to serve ethnic and lin guistic minority populations experiencing problems with the disorder.
Toll-Free Helpline (800) 522-4700 9 Do Compulsive Gamblers Ever Make Money Gambling? Submitted by: Arnie Wexler
Compulsive gamblers sometimes show a ability to stop gambling often results in finan A small group of addicted gamblers will finally profit from a single session, but in the end cial devastation, broken homes, employment seek and find real help but the real trick is to they cannot keep it. They will lose it all and problems, criminal acts and suicide attempts. get in to real recovery. Not just abstinence. By more because of their addiction. the time the gambler comes for help they have The gambler will eventually remove them broken brains. They are mentally ill. To get A win is never big enough so they keep play selves from reality to the point of being totally real recovery, the gambler needs to work on ing and dream that this time they will get the obsessed with gambling. They will do any themselves one day at a time. “Big Win” they crave. When it does (some thing to get money with which to stay in times it does ) it is still not enough so they “action.” They will spend all their time and Compulsive gamblers who want to recover keep gambling and lose more. energy developing schemes in order to get and get a stress-free life must find a “sponsor,” more cash to continue gambling. Lying be someone who will do their thinking for them. Just like “normal people” who win and buy comes a way of life for the gambler. They will A “sponsor” should be someone who has been something with the money, the compulsive try to convince family, friends and even them in recovery for some time and has a real gambler will only see a win as a sign that they selves that their lies are actually truths and knowledge of how compulsive gamblers feel. are now on a winning streak so they risk they will believe there own lies. After some time in recovery their brain will more. They cannot stop the chase to win start to function normally and they will see more and more. The human drama continues Compulsive gamblers will hit a real bottom their problem for what it is: a health and when they lose and chase the losses with even and it is then that some will try to do some wealth issue. They will become productive on more money. The cycle continues. thing to recover but most gamblers only want their job and become a good father or hus to stop but can’t. They are simply unable to Compulsive gambling is a progressive disease, band. Recovery is a process and does not beat the addiction. Most even at that point will much like an addiction to alcohol or drugs. In happen without a lot of work. The gambler keep gambling. Some will end up in jail, some many cases, the gambling addiction is hidden must choose to make a moral and financial will attempt suicide, others will die from their until the gambler becomes unable to function inventory. People can and do recover. addiction as they will not take care of their without gambling. He or she begins to ex health. Perhaps the stress will kill them. clude all other activities from their lives. Their
New E-Tool for Identifying Gambling Disorders Submitted by: Margot Cahoon
The Division on Addictions at the Cambridge Health Alliance, a teach- to educate and provide tools for individuals who might want to help ing affiliate of Harvard Medical School (the Division) announces the themselves or a loved one begin the process of preventing or stopping rollout of a free screening and intervention system for gambling-related addiction,” said Dr. Howard Shaffer, Associate Professor at Harvard problems (http://www.divisiononaddictions.org/bbgs_new). This Medical School and Director of the Division. innovative online screening device is based on the Division’s psycho The National Council on Problem Gambling will partner with the metrically validated Brief Biosocial Gambling Screen1. This new system Division to promote the screen nation-wide. Other early adopters of will allow individuals to complete an anonymous on-line three-item the screening system will include the Massachusetts Council on Com screen that provides a brief intervention and information targeted to pulsive Gambling, McGill University’s International Centre for Youth individuals’ interest and readiness to change their gambling behavior. Gambling Problems and High-Risk Behaviors, The Wellness Center at This is the first extremely brief online gambling screen for current Westminster College (Fulton, MO), and the Problem Gambling Treat gambling-related problems to provide targeted brief interventions. ment and Research Center at the University of Denver. “We are very excited about the rollout of our online screening tool. We encourage groups to link to the Gambling e-screen and Interven The tool will allow individuals to check their own gambling behavior tion System. For groups interested in obtaining a free version of the and access appropriate change-related tools, if that is their decision. original code for the Gambling e-screen and Intervention System, It is anonymous, available to take at any time, and responsive to in please contact: http://www.divisiononaddictions.org. Version I is an dividuals’ current change-related needs,” said Dr. Debi LaPlante, on-line screen. Mobile and Applet versions are coming soon! Assistant Professor at Harvard Medical School and Associate Director of the Division. 1Gebauer, L., LaBrie, R. A., & Shaffer, H. J. (2010). Optimizing DSM-IV classification accuracy: a brief bio-social screen for detecting current gambling disorders among The Division’s mission is to alleviate the pain and suffering of indi gamblers in the general household population. Canadian Journal of Psychiatry, 55(2), viduals who suffer from addiction. “The creation and dissemination of 82-90. this gambling e-screen is just one way we are able to use our resources
10 National Council on Problem Gambling A Clinician’s View of Compulsive Gambling Submitted by: Mitchell E. Wallick
Any discussion of any addiction, in my expe when loosing, feels the pain of the loss and be understood that all of our actions are going rience, requires the understanding of the then stops, takes corrective action, recognizes to be based phenemoligically, (i.e. from the concept of avoidance. Avoidance behavior danger and performs in moderation. The client’s point of view.) People will act based on may best be described as the block in the compulsive gambler on the other hand will what they believe to be reality. In working addict’s thinking process that exists between not stop. Instead they ride a roller coaster of with my clients I begin by having them de reality and risk. Avoiding reality can be emotions ranging from the ecstasy of the win scribe what they believe to be their own real achieved through drugs, alcohol and/or gam to the total despair and depression of the loss. ity: e.g., I am a professional gambler. Working bling addiction. The addiction allows the Because of the intermittent reinforcement of with the client I have him identify the charac addict to avoid what is occurring in the real the gambling addiction, behaviorally the teristics of a professional gambler. I also ask world. It serves as a blinder to prevent the gambling behavior is one of the most difficult the client to describe the benefits of “being a addict’s psyche from accepting the problem to extinguish. As with most other habits or professional gambler.” Let us say that the and dealing with it. Instead the addict avoids activities the gambler must decide what is the patient answers, “Earning money.” I then the problem and complicates it further gambling providing them and making the challenge the patient with the assignment of through neglect and rationalizations which, in decision that it is not working. In other write down what you have won and lost. delaying solutions and continued negative words, the compulsive gambler will recover Subtract and show me the profit. This type of behaviors, will inevitably make the problem only when the pain of the addiction exceeds challenge, irrefutable fact, confronts the gam worse. As I tell my patients an ostrich has a the fear of changing. bler’s view and helps to bring their perception long neck and can get away with sticking its into congruence with reality. It is this reality The next issue in psychodynamic is the con head in the sand. Human beings have rela redefinition that will initiate and change cept of passive and passive roles. Again for tively short necks and, as a consequence, raise behavior. Because this reality is often painful, most normal people a balance is achieved. the rear of the anatomy placing it as an invita it can be a long and slow process. Finally one The gambler will be trying to do the same tion to get kicked. must recognize that the gambler is often self thing except that they are choosing an impos centered. There is an internal struggle be The pathological gambler, (as well as other sible environment to attain this. Whether in tween pleasing one’s self and pleasing others. types of addicts) alter their reality. The first the passive role of waiting for the slot to pay Frequently the gambler, as with most addicts, area that one needs to look at in dealing with off, or in the active role of the poker game, will look to please others both to reinforce the client with an addictive problem is the the gambler continues to function with ideas low self-esteem and to maintain the benefits balance between self and the external world. and beliefs that do not conform to reality. he is able to receive from continued relation In terms of the pathological gambler self Instead the gambler continues to use rational ship. On the other hand, the gambler often worth is very largely a function of external ization and magical thinking predicting and will become resentful, continue to gamble reinforcement. Often having low self-esteem, hoping for the big win which probably will both as a distraction, but also as a punish the gambler will find a false sense of worth never occur. ment, for those he is angry with. For example, from the glitter of the casino (comps and As we continue to discuss the gambler’s avoid if a father controls the money, the gambler adulations feed the ego), a focus on winning ance of reality we must look at a number of will lie to get the money and also receive the and the accolades of fellow gamblers, and the different areas. First we must discuss the additional benefit of going against the father’s feeling of competition when they believe they ignoring of the physical reality. The compul wishes. are beating the house or fellow gamblers all sive gambler in the throes of their addiction contribute to creating a false image, even if it One of the difficulties that many gamblers will ignore feelings of hunger, need for sleep, not real. One of the areas that I believe the have (as with many of us) is the ability to etc. As a consequence of this the gambler therapist must look at is at reestablishing the place trust in others. Normal people handle looses touch with his reality and stops taking balance between the self-image and the exter this by developing boundaries and a degree of notice of the physiological signals that in the nal world. In other words, it is important that trust in those around them. Because the gam normal person would interrupt the behavior. self and external world reach some degree of bler does not really trust him or others, the The second element in making a personality congruity. gambler places his/her trust not in himself or change is the need to address the emotional others, but in externals such as the machines, Healthy human beings, in the most behav content of the gambler. As the physical avoid the gambler’s system, etc. Another deficit ioral sense, will move towards pleasure and ance begins to come into line with the real caused by the gambler’s incongruence with move away from pain. Decisions are made world, so does the gambler begin to feel emo reality is hurt. No one likes the unpleasant based on the recognition of the problem, tions. He or she begins to experience anger, feeling of being hurt. The gambler however generation of alternatives and valuing of grief, frustration, etc. This emotional pain deals with it by going into his dissociative consequences and finally choice. With the plays an important role in helping the client gambling state and avoiding reality. Part of compulsive gambler (or other addict) the to recognize his reality and feel discomfort the therapeutic process requires that the thera choice is based on warped input. Instead of which will help lead to change and hopefully pist work with the gambler to a tolerance for being based on accurate and real information, a more positive life style. Yet another concept hurt, as well as an ability to set up healthy the filter of consequences is not functioning in working with the compulsive gambling correctly. Consider the “normal person” who, client is the idea of cognitive reality. It must (Clinician’s View, continued on page 12)
Toll-Free Helpline (800) 522-4700 11 NCRG Launches Website to Help Address Gambling on College Campuses Submitted by: Holly Wetzel
The National Center for Responsible Gaming (NCRG) recently puses,” said Christine Reilly, senior director of research for the NCRG. launched www.CollegeGambling.org, a website developed as a tool “CollegeGambling.org brings together the latest research and best to help campus administrators, campus health professionals, students practices in responsible gambling and the field of addiction awareness and parents address gambling and gambling-related harms on college and prevention to provide a substantive and versatile resource that will campuses. help schools and their students address this important issue in the way best suited to each school.” Research finds that 75 percent of college students gambled during the past year (whether legally or illegally, on campus or off). While the vast The first site of its kind, www.CollegeGambling.org reaches students majority of those old enough to legally gamble can do so responsibly, directly with information about gambling and gambling disorders and the most recent research estimates that 6 percent of college students in includes suggestions for campus officials to integrate gambling educa the U.S. have a serious gambling problem that can result in psycho tion and awareness efforts into existing programs about alcohol, drugs logical difficulties, unmanageable debt and failing grades. Most stu and other risky behaviors. The site even includes free downloadable dents appear to mature out of these problems, as evidenced by the fact materials such as posters, brochures and fact sheets. that only 1 percent of the adult population suffers from pathological The NCRG is the only national organization exclusively devoted gambling, but addressing this issue on campus still is a priority. to public education and funding research of gambling disorders. Nearly all U.S. colleges and universities have policies on student alco CollegeGambling.org builds on the recommendations of the Task hol use; however, only 22 percent have a formal policy on gambling. Force on College Gambling Policies, which was established in 2008 Students who admit to having a problem sometimes find a lack of by the NCRG and the Division on Addictions at the Cambridge support on campus. Health Alliance, a teaching affiliate of Harvard Medical School. “There is a distinct need for sound, science-based policies and Visit www.collegegambling.org today, and help spread the word programs about gambling and gambling disorders on college cam among your colleagues, family and friends.
(Clinician’s View, continued from page 11) boundaries, and also maintain healthy rela Similarly the gambler is sometimes (most of tive action” defense. The gambler will tend to tionships. Along this same line in working the time) confronted by family members and fill their world with other addictions, arro with my patients I often find that I am deal others who have been “hurt” by the gambler’s gance, and behaviors on which they can focus ing with the concepts of fear and paranoia. In actions. The family and friends expect this instead of focusing on the real problem of the case of the gamblers that I work with, this response of remorsefulness to be immediate. gambling and the problems caused by them. is an unhealthy over reactive state of mind. This is often not the case because the gambler Yet another obstacle to a gambler’s recovery is On the other hand I find that eliminating is simply not ready to accept the responsibility leapfrogging. The gambler, in order to avoid these completely is one of the major causes of for his actions. Part of the therapeutic process focusing on his problem, jumps from thing to patient relapse. Boredom is deadly. Thus, it requires that the gambler learn to accept the thing in order to defocus. In practice it is becomes necessary to teach the gambler to responsibility for his actions. essential that the therapist work with the deal with appropriate risks and the anxiety The next concept is the concept of endurance. gambler to focus on specific positive goals and that is accompanied by them. The gambler Endurance, as opposed to avoidance, is the that the gambler be taught to follow through. must learn to realistically weigh risks against act of learning to tolerate, if not enjoy the benefits for positive outcomes. Last but not The last area to work on with the gambler is struggle the gambler faces in recreating a least in the therapeutic process, the therapist to help him begin to under- stand how he has congruent internal and external reality. Finally must help the gambler learn to be assertive as shrunk his world to a point where he able to we come to the concept of the wish, both opposed to aggressive. avoid all the other unpleasantness that he passive and active. In my personal practice we perceives comes with his addiction. Asking vs. taking is really an extension of refer to this concept as dreams vs. goals. A assertive vs. aggressive. One of the things that dream is what we want. A goal is something In short, the role of the therapist is to enable the gamblers in my personal practice seem to we are working for. the gambler to stop avoiding and bring his have to overcome is the idea that they are internal reality into congruence with the real As we continue to challenge avoidance of “entitled.” They need to learn to ask, as op world. reality in the gambler, we must look at the posed to just assuming, if they can take. The concept of the “filler defense”… that which I gambler needs to learn to ask, run the risk of choose to refer to as the “anything but posi being rejected and accept that possibility.
12 National Council on Problem Gambling TheThe Counselor’s Counselor’s Corner Corner Grief, Self-Esteem and Gambling Submitted by: Kathleen Zamperini “There is no grief like the grief that does not speak.” Oftentimes, therapists are concerned that addressing unresolved grief – Henry Wadsworth Longfellow can be too overwhelming for the client and can trigger a relapse, which is possible in early recovery. Also, with the high suicide rate for gam Does unresolved grief need to be addressed in a gambling treatment blers, this can be disconcerting for the therapist. (Assessing the client’s program? When is the client ready to accept the painful feelings of grief? suicidal thoughts/plan is always recommended and a referral for psy The consequences of poor self-esteem, unresolved grief and gambling chiatric intervention with possible hospitalization. If hospitalization is behaviors can be very similar; excessive guilt, depression, anxiety, prob not required, providing the client with a 24-hour crisis line is always lems with relationships, and emotional numbness. I have realized how recommended.) important this information is to the positive treatment outcome of individuals requesting our help for gambling problems. The clients’ However, not dealing with the underlying issue of grief can undermine stories have been unique, but the resounding underlying issue has been the client’s ability to develop ego strength as the therapist validates the surprisingly similar: “I am hurting, I’ve never learned how to cope with client’s feelings while accepting their self-worth. The timing of all of the painful feelings and accept my limitations. I’ll numb the pain, this is crucial. Some clients may not appear ready to address grief issues (escape gambling), or prove my worth, (action gambling).” early in treatment, and if the therapist respects the client’s decision this can help the client learn to trust their own judgment and improve Healthy self-esteem is based on our ability to realistically assess and their self-image. The therapist can utilize cognitive therapy techniques accept our strengths and limitations while valuing our worth. Persons such as teaching the client how to challenge self-defeating thoughts with poor self-esteem often rely on external experiences to determine and stress management. The client can learn to trust the therapist their value — even though the experience is temporary. The messages while establishing healthy alternatives to gambling. began in childhood as they were often given messages that failed expe riences were failures of self. Since we develop our self-esteem during As the client learns coping skills, they can develop a healthy self-image childhood with messages from the adults in our lives, are we not most while erasing past negative messages. When clients develop a positive susceptible to numbing unacceptable feelings and behaviors if we have sense of self they are better prepared to acknowledge past painful never learned to value self? memories, grieving without relapse, and acceptance of self.
Working With the Recovery Community Submitted by: Margot Cahoon Over the past couple of years, the gambling in the National Comorbidity “One Last Ride,” an emotionally gripping Massachusetts Council on Compulsive Survey Replication. Psychological Medi- film about one man’s personal battle to Gambling has begun an initiative to inte- cine 2008;38:1351-1360). So working end a self-destructive path of compulsive grate problem gambling services into the with the recovery community makes a lot gambling. After showing the movie, six Massachusetts Department of Public of sense in terms of identifying people at Council staff members talked with the Re- Health, Bureau of Substance Abuse Ser- risk for developing gambling problems, covery Center members, many of whom vices-Funded Peer Recovery Support and putting protective factors in place.” were surprised at how similar gambling Centers, as well as collaborating with In 2010, Massachusetts Council staff addiction was to their own experience other organizations serving the recovery members visited all of the Recovery Cen- with alcohol and other drug addiction. community. ters to find collaborative projects, and to “We have a busy spring ahead, work- According to Council Prevention Direc- share information about problem gam- ing with the recovery community,” said tor, Jim Wuelfing, “Pathological gamblers bling prevention, intervention and treat- Wuelfing. “We are holding our first ever are significantly more likely to have sub- ment resources. The first project the All Recovery Retreat. Possible topics in- stance use disorders compared to those Council undertook at the centers was de- clude: Spirituality, Forgiveness, Avoiding without gambling problems. Research ex- livering financial literacy programs. As a Picking up Another Addiction, Letting amining a large, representative sample result, people in recovery learned about Go, Connecting to the Recovery Commu- of U.S. citizens found that among patho- banking basics, credit and money man- nity and Recovery as a Family Affair. It’s logical gamblers, 75 percent also had an agement. “Education is an integral early open to anyone who is in recovery for alcohol disorder and 38 percent also had strategy in the prevention of problem anything and I think it is going to open a a drug use disorder (Kessler RC, Hwang gambling,” said Wuelfing. lot of new doors for the Council. I’m ex- I, LaBrie R, et al. DSM-IV pathological In 2011, Council staff members re- cited about it,” he concluded. turned to the Centers to show the movie,
Toll-Free Helpline (800) 522-4700 13 Reach Out! Campaign Get One – Get Two … Share the Benefits of NCPG Membership!
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FL Council Job Opportunity WANTED: CLINICAL DIRECTOR We are currently seeking a Clinical Director to develop and Requirements implement a problem gambling treatment program in the State Candidate should have a graduate degree in a behavioral of Florida. This program will include problem gambling out health field (current license within behavioral health discipline patient treatment as well as IOP’s and possible residential if preferred) and preference will be given to those with clinical deemed appropriate. Ideal candidate will be responsible for and administrative experience in problem gambling treatment. coordinating the design and implementation of this program. Applicant must be well organized and attentive to detail. Some Duties will include supervision of contract clinical staff, ensur- travel required. ing all record keeping meets HIPPA requirements, and conduct- Knowledge of gambling specific chart audits, treatment plan ing regular chart audits to assure care received is gambling reviews and utilization reviews as well as quality assurance specific and appropriate record keeping systems are utilized. plans. Federal, state, and local licensing or certification require- The position includes a need for solid leadership ability, ments helpful. proven clinical skills with gamblers and their family members, Applicant should have good working knowledge of: as well as team building and motivational skills. • ASAM levels of care as used with problem gamblers Design of program evaluation, outcome and staff evaluations • HIPPA requirements, will be required and the clinical director will be part of a multi- • Diversity treatment issues disciplinary team preparing regular reports on program devel- • Clinical administration of multi site programs among opment and client satisfaction. varied disciplines Ideal candidate will have strong public speaking, communi- • Data collection and record keeping requirements cation, and writing skills. • Experience with the provision of clinical supervision Experience with grant reviews and grant writing a plus. (applicants that are BACC’s, or agree to pursue becoming Knowledge of public awareness campaigns, outreach and a BACC in the near future a +) marketing helpful. Knowledge of gambling treatment in an • Working knowledge of recent research in problem outpatient, IOP and residential setting preferred. gambling treatment and prevention Benefits To Apply • Competitive Salary Fax resume to (407) 865-6103 or email to jcampbell@ • Vacation/Holidays gamblinghelp.org • Sick Days • Medical Insurance • Retirement Plan
14 National Council on Problem Gambling
Registration includes access to that day’s learning sessions, continental breakfast, lunch, networking breaks, and conference materials, as well as Thursday night opening reception.
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Calendar of Events For more information on these events, please visit www.ncpgambling.org JUNE 2011 JULY 2011 Counseling the Pathological Gambler Counseling the Pathological Gambler Wednesday, June 1 – Tuesday, June 28 Friday, July 1 – Thursday, July 28 Web-base, On Demand Web-base, On Demand The online training, Counseling the Pathological Gambler, is inter The online training, Counseling the Pathological Gambler, is inter active, audio-based, with downloadable training manuals. This active, audio-based, with downloadable training manuals. This online training ranges from 4 hours to 60 hours and is designed for online training ranges from 4 hours to 60 hours and is designed for mental health care providers, drug and alcohol counselors, and all mental health care providers, drug and alcohol counselors, and all addiction practitioners who wish to become certified or require addiction practitioners who wish to become certified or require CE’s. Fees range from $15 – 19 per CE hour. CE’s. Fees range from $15 – 19 per CE hour. Upon registration, you may begin the training program immedi Upon registration, you may begin the training program immedi ately as well as log in and out taking the training at times that are ately as well as log in and out taking the training at times that are convenient for you. The site, www.nati.org/oll, has a demonstration convenient for you. The site, www.nati.org/oll, has a demonstration that provides more information about this fascinating learning style that provides more information about this fascinating of the training program as well as ‘what others learning style of the training have said’ about the pro program as well as ‘what others gram. have said’ about the program. The NCPG Education The NCPG Education Com- Committee has approved mittee has approved this this course for 4-60 gam- course for 4-60 gambling bling specific continuing specific continuing education education units. units. Contact: Elizabeth George, Contact: Elizabeth George, [email protected], 1-888-989- [email protected], 1-888-989- 9234 9234 For more information, visit For more information, visit http://nati.org/oll. http://nati.org/oll.
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We’re Ready to Listen. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, give us a call. The National Problem Gambling Helpline provides toll-free, confidential help 24 hours a day. 1-800-522-4700