Today, more people have access to, and are participating in, gambling activities than ever before. While the majority of the population is able to gamble without developing any issues, there are a small percentage of people who are unable to maintain responsible levels of play.  Unfortunately for these individuals, this often progresses to a point where several areas of their lives are impacted in a negative way.

During this program participants will learn about the problem and how it develops, the overlap between problem gambling, mental health issues and substance use disorders, and what help is available in Pennsylvania.

Today, more people have access to, and are participating in, gambling activities than ever before. While the majority of the population is able to gamble without developing any issues, there are a small percentage of people who are unable to maintain responsible levels of play. Unfortunately for these individuals, this often progresses to a point where several areas of their lives are impacted in a negative way. During this program participants will learn about the problem, how it develops and what help is available for someone who is suffering from gambling disorders.

Presenter: Josh Ercole

This 90-minute webinar is designed to introduce the latest legalized gambling options in Pennsylvania and define problematic and disordered gambling. With the expansion that includes online sports betting, casino games, and lotteries, more individuals and families will be impacted by gambling problems. This can lead to children and families becoming involved in the child welfare system. This webinar will educate professionals to assess families through a gambling lens, including signs of parent problem gambling. Participants will also learn about the PA Council on Problem Gambling as a resource for education and referrals for help.

Who Should Attend: This module is intended for public and private child welfare professionals.

Presented by: Jody Bechtold, LCSW, ICGC-II, BACC, PC & Alyssa N. Wilson, PhD., BCBA-D, LBA

In a time where we see increased access, availability and participation in gambling, it is also important to recognize there is also in increase in the number of individuals whose lives are negatively impacted. While there is an ever-growing number of research studies on the topic, there are a limited number of current resources available to counselors and mental health professionals focused on practical application of treatment services. This program offers a sneak peek into the creation of a new book aimed at addressing this.

Our presenters joined us to discuss the paths that have led them to this point, and how by using their clinical and research experience, they have been able to present a new book on treatment strategies, focusing on topics relevant to today’s world. Their book, “The Gambling Disorder Treatment Handbook” is the focus of discussion in the program.

Presented by: Ken Litwak II, CADC, ICGC-I, CCTP, DRCC

This webinar discusses the basic principles of responsible gambling. This broadcast gives a brief overview of problem and disordered gambling, discusses the unique aspects of internet compared to brick and mortar casino gambling, and describes the principles of responsible gambling. We review the warning signs of problem gambling and discuss where to go for help for gamblers and family members who feel they have a problem.

Presented by: Daniel J. Trolaro, MS

Consistently, there are more creative and fast paced forms of entertainment to help people escape, hope, or adjust to the stress of life. Whether finding it through substance, technology or a variety of other methods, individuals are becoming more daring, tech savvy and tech dependent. Two areas that have seen explosive growth exists in the world of daily fantasy sports contests and the emergence of legalized sports gambling.

With the advent and expansion of these skill-based forms of entertainment, individuals have access to information and opportunities to wager 24/7. This workshop will explore the psychological aspects and gambling-like mechanics common to daily fantasy sports contests while looking at emerging trends and future considerations in sports gambling.

Presented by: Gregory A. Krausz, MA, CAADC, LPC

This webinar offers the opportunity for a discussion about how crisis, isolation and availability can impact online gambling behaviors. The focus is on the importance of addressing the stress that is often associated with crisis, offering the use of services including teletherapy and the development of effective ways to achieve connection and communication with clients.

Presented by: Trish Caldwell, MFT LPC CCDPD CCTP CAADC

This training explores practical ways for gambling counselors and other professionals to help maintain their mental wellbeing during the COVID-19 outbreak and beyond. Discussion includes common reactions to the pandemic from both a personal and professional lens and identification of  strategies to manage any unwanted symptoms as well as social isolation.

Additionally, the meaning of resilience during times like this for gambling counselors and other professionals is addressed, and how to utilize this resilience to help yourself and those you are serving get through these difficult times.

Presented by: Julie M. Hynes, MA, RD, CPS

The world of what we have considered “gambling” has shifted dramatically in recent years, and exposure to gambling within video games is eye opening. In this webinar, participants will gain an understanding of recent trends in video gaming and how these trends have blurred the lines between what is gaming and gambling. We will focus on what the research says about the public health risks facing youth, discussing how COVID-19 has augmented the need to address these issues, and provide practical recommendations that can be applied in professional and personal settings.