Gambling Addiction treatment

A cohort model means a small group of up to 8 participants starts and completes the 10-week program together. We do not allow new members to join midway through. This closed structure ensures maximum privacy, builds deep trust among peers, and creates a safe environment where everyone progresses together without weekly disruptions.

Because accountability is a core component of recovery—and to keep the cohort dynamic strong—we ask for a full commitment to all 10 weeks. However, if an emergency arises, you will coordinate directly with the facilitator to complete a catch-up review so you don't fall behind on the curriculum.

Relapse or urges are viewed as clinical information, not a failure. You will not be kicked out of the group for struggling. The cohort is designed to be a safe, honest environment where we dissect triggers, adjust coping strategies, and help you regain momentum immediately.

Gambling addiction is shaped by real-world, everyday triggers: paydays, mobile apps, sports broadcasts, and financial stress. An intensive outpatient cohort allows you to learn evidence-based skills and immediately apply them in your actual daily life, receiving real-time group feedback and clinical support each week.

The $200 deposit is an investment in your own commitment. Our primary goal is your active engagement and program completion—not taking your money. Your $200 deposit is 100% fully refunded upon attending and completing all 10 weeks of the program. The only non-refundable cost is a one-time $50 administration and materials fee.

Insurance is not accepted for the 10-week "Beyond the Bet" group program. However, if you choose to add optional individual therapy or medication management alongside the group, those separate clinical services may be billed through health insurance or eligible for out-of-network reimbursement, depending on your provider and coverage.

We accept all major credit cards, debit cards, and HSA/FSA (Health Savings Account / Flexible Savings Account) cards.

Yes. The American Psychiatric Association classifies gambling disorder in the DSM-5 as a behavioral addiction under Substance-Related and Addictive Disorders. Brain imaging shows that compulsive gambling activates the exact same neurochemical dopamine and reward pathways as substance use disorders.

No. "Beyond the Bet" treats gambling disorder as a primary mental health concern. Whether you struggle solely with gambling or experience co-occurring conditions like anxiety, depression, trauma, or ADHD, our curriculum is tailored to address the root cognitive and behavioral cycles driving your gambling.

While peer support groups like GA are invaluable resources, "Beyond the Bet" is a clinician-led, evidence-based treatment program. Facilitated by a Licensed Mental Health Counselor specializing in addiction, it delivers a structured 10-week clinical curriculum utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) skills to actively rewire addictive neural pathways and target underlying root causes.

No, individual counseling and psychiatric medication management are completely optional. However, because gambling addiction frequently co-occurs with anxiety, depression, trauma, or ADHD, combining group work with individual care or medication management significantly increases long-term recovery success.

While there is no single medication specifically created for gambling, psychiatric providers frequently use proven off-label medications. For example, opioid antagonists (like Naltrexone) block the brain's reward system, which dulls the "rush" or high of placing a bet and significantly reduces intense cravings. SSRIs and mood stabilizers can also treat the underlying depression or impulsivity that triggers gambling behaviors.

Yes, 100%. Confidentiality is legally and ethically protected under HIPAA. All group members sign a strict confidentiality agreement prior to Session 1 agreeing that everything shared within the room stays within the room.

Due to our small group cap (maximum 8 participants), we conduct a pre-screening before Cohort Session 1. If a dual relationship or conflict of interest arises between participants, we will discreetly transition you to an alternate cohort time or offer an individualized care plan.

The 10-week cohort sessions are strictly reserved for the participants working through the recovery curriculum. However, because addiction impacts the entire family unit, we offer separate family & couples counseling sessions at Arkham Rise Counseling to help loved ones rebuild trust, set financial boundaries, and heal from the ripple effects of problem gambling.

If gambling causes you stress, leads to secret-keeping, creates financial strain, or feels difficult to stop despite wanting to—it is time for support. You do not need to hit "rock bottom" or be in financial ruin to benefit from this program. Early intervention prevents long-term devastation.