Rideauwood Addiction & Family Services

	OBJECTIVES:
	To assist people who have gambling problems to: identify problems related to gambling , understand the nature of compulsive gambling, identify blocks to recovery, and learn new effective behaviors for change.

	PROGRAM: Phase I - Education
	2 evening group information sessions – 1½ hours each Offers information on compulsive gambling, problems associated with gambling and options for change.

	Phase II -Planning and Action
	12 evening group counselling sessions - 2 hours each. Focuses on cognitive restructuring and relapse prevention with a look at the role of underlying issues.

	Phase III - Continuing Care
	Ongoing weekly group sessions and individual counseling Supports recovery work and the application of new behaviors.

	Other Options offered
	. Individual counselling	. Couples counselling
	. Financial counselling	. Consultation

	EVALUATION:
	A pilot evaluation was conducted. Clients reported average gambling losses of over $6000 each in the month before admission, during treatment, were down to $129 each. Nearly half the group had not gambled in several months. To speak to a gambling counsellor directly, call 724-4881. This program is provincially funded. No fees for service.

Screening for Pathological Gambling: A 2-Question Test
1- Have you ever felt the need to bet more and more money?
2- Have you ever had to lie to people important to you about how much you gambled?

People who answer YES to one or both questions indicates a very high likelihood (85%) of
a serious gambling problem call us.

Rideauwood Addiction & Family Services
312 Parkdale Avenue
Ottawa, Ontario, K1Y 4X5
(613) 724-4881 Fax: (613) 724-4873

Email: gambling@rideauwood.org