
Helpful Resources
There are many experts and service providers who address problem gambling. Below are a few links to some organizations that may be helpful.
The Wisconsin Council on Problem Gambling (WCPG) |
|
call: |
1-800-426-2535 |
click: |
wi-problemgamblers.org |
write: |
The Wisconsin Council on Problem Gambling 1423 Kellogg Street, Green Bay, WI 54303 |
WCPG can supply information about local GA meetings, provide speakers for schools or organizations and provide a list of local certified counselors.
Self-Help Tool for Problem Gamblers
Your First Step to Change is a self-help guide originally developed by Harvard researchers and intended for gamblers who are concerned about their gambling and thinking about changing their behavior. It is available as a free, confidential, interactive online tool and in downloadable PDF format.
Speakers Bureau
One of the key roles of the WCPG is to help educate young and old about the risks of problem gambling, warning signs and when to ask for help. The majority of people can gamble without any problems, but for some it can develop into a devastating compulsive behavior that can impact all areas of their lives.
The WCPG has an outreach speaker based in the Milwaukee area that is available free of charge to speak at schools, churches, service clubs, senior centers or any other event. The message will be tailored to meet the needs of your audience. The focus is on education and awareness.
To request someone from the WCPG to speak to your group, complete the request form (PDF) or call 920-437-8888.
As part of its responsible gambling program, Potawatomi Bingo Casino provided a grant to the WCPG to provide this service in the greater Milwaukee area.
Other Resources
American Gaming Association
http://www.americangaming.org/
Gamblers Anonymous
http://www.gamblersanonymous.org/
Institute for Research on Pathological Gambling and Related Disorders
http://www.divisiononaddictions.org/institute/
National Center for Responsible Gaming
http://www.ncrg.org/
National Council on Problem Gambling
http://www.ncpgambling.org/
National Gambling Impact Study Commission
http://govinfo.library.unt.edu/ngisc/
Responsible Gambling Council
http://www.responsiblegambling.org/
Certification Available for Counselors
The WCPG offers training programs and workshops for people who might work with problem gamblers and their families in a variety of clinical settings. The information is designed for counselors to incorporate into their clinical practice and to learn about the effects of problem gambling. Continuing Education Units are available for each phase of training. A certificate of attendance will be provided by the WCPG.
Completion of 30 hours of gambling-specific training education may allow participants to become eligible as a referral source for the WCPG helpline.
Participants are also welcome from the criminal justice system, employee assistance field, faith and pastoral care traditions, educators, the gaming industry, the recovering community and others.
Training Sessions Schedule
Phase 1 |
January 14 – 15 , 2010 | Radisson North Shore, Milwaukee |
| April 22 – 23, 2010 | Green Bay | |
Phase 2 |
February 11 – 12, 2010 | Radisson North Shore, Milwaukee |
| May 13 – 14 , 2010 | Green Bay | |
Phase 3 |
Sept 30 – Oct 1, 2010 | Radisson North Shore, Milwaukee |
| August 26 – 27, 2010 | Green Bay | |
Phase 4 |
October 21 -22, 2010 | Radisson North Shore, Milwaukee | September 23 – 24, 2010 | Green Bay |
To register or for more information contact the WCPG at 920-437-8888 or their website.