Initial engagement with the gambler should focus on instilling hope and forming a therapeutic relationship.

Gamblers can experience significant shame so taking a comprehensive history of harms at the initial assessment could increase the gamblers distress and result in them disengaging. Providing a sense of hope that with effective treatment life can improve is important to help the gambler to commit to changing their behaviour.

Co-existing conditions

It is important to understand that gambling can be a secondary behaviour or escape from other areas of distress in a persons life. Stabilising mental health conditions allows the client to fully engage in treatment for their gambling.

If you suspect your client is experiencing symptoms of mental illness, we recommend collaborating with a specialist service such as gambling minds.

Find out more about our service.

Risk assessment

A risk assessment is important to inform whether the client needs urgent support. Clinicians should note that if a client relapses, their risk can change rapidly. gambling minds is not an acute service so if your client requires urgent assistance, refer them to their area mental health service. 

View a list of services providing crisis mental health support

Harm minimisation & financial counselling

Having access to money is a frequent trigger to relapse. It is useful to have harm minimisation techniques in place while a client is addressing their urge related thoughts and feelings. Psychoeducation is essential, taking into consideration the vicious gambling cycle so the client understands the reasons why they cannot have access to savings.

Relying on significant others to manage money can lead to conflict and relationship difficulties, so it is crucial to work with the client and their significant other (if appropriate) to establish the best approach. Referral for financial counselling can assist, and this service is available free of charge at all Gambler's Help services in Victoria.

Significant others

It is essential to support significant others who often experience considerable distress and feel powerless about the person in their life who is gambling. You can also support them to ensure their finances are safe from any ongoing risks associated with gambling.

Gambler's Help services around Victoria can provide long-term counselling to affected others.

gambling minds provides Single Session Family Therapy, and will work in collaboration with the client, their family and counsellor.