CAMH: Problem Gambling Project

The Problem Gambling Project

The Problem Gambling Project is funded by the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care and is an important component of Ontario's "Responsible and Problem Gambling Strategy." The program is devoted to providing evidence-based training and support materials to Ontario's designated problem gambling treatment system, allied professionals and communities on issues related to problem gambling.

The Project has experienced trainers who are also therapists who work at CAMH's specialized problem gambling outpatient treatment program. Consequently, the training and resources that the Project produces is informed by direct experience with people who are affected by gambling problems. The work is also based on the most up to date clinical knowledge in the field.

Our Work with the Designated Treatment System

The Problem Gambling Project develops and delivers core competency and specialized training on a wide range of issues related to gambling and problem gambling. This training is designed for professionals who work in agencies that are part of Ontario's responsible and problem gambling strategy. Recent workshops have focussed on the family, youth, solution-focused therapy and training on how to conduct effective community awareness initiatives. The Project has also produced a number of comprehensive resources for the designated problem gambling treatment system. These include:

* "Helping the Problem Gambler". This is a treatment manual that provides practical information on the nature and dynamics of gambling problems, and how to help problem gamblers and their families.

* "Promoting Community Awareness of Problem Gambling". This is a comprehensive resource package that provides background information and tools that are needed for conducting community-based work in public awareness and professional education on gambling and problem gambling.

Our Work with Allied Professional Systems

The allied professional system includes service agencies that may come into contact with clients experiencing problems with gambling. Service Providers across Ontario are in key positions to be able to provide information about gambling to the clients and patients who use their services. By developing resources, tools and training for professionals, the Project hopes to make information and treatment more accessible to the general public.

The Project is presently working with the financial and correctional systems as well as ethnoracial service providers. Through a consultative process, the needs of each system are identified and training and resources are developed to meet those specific needs.

Training topics include:

CAMH Problem Gambling Service

The Problem Gambling Project

For general information on addiction and mental health: