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Outpatient Programs for Pathological Gambling

Gambling problems has increased overtime since the birth of so many gambling establishments. Because of this alarming growth involving uncontrolled gambling, many rehabilitation and counseling programs were formulated to address the problem. Many States support the said programs although when the first few rehabilitation centers were built, many were pessimistic about the number of gambler enrollees to the program. But they were amazed with the increasing downpour of clients, mostly brought by their families who are primarily concerned to get help for the gambling addiction experienced by a family member.

The outpatient rehabilitation program is the best choice for problem gamblers who have yet to progress beyond a certain point with their addiction. The successful candidates for this program are employed individuals, those living with their family, and one who demonstrates a stable medical condition. One important element that determines an individual as a candidate to outpatient rehabilitation is their ability to abstain from gambling activities. Individuals who are not capable of gambling abstinence for 3 months are appropriately admitted to an inpatient rehabilitation programs. The structure for this program will provide more conducive environment to make recovery more obtainable.

Treatment approach involved in outpatient programs is also in line with treatment used for chemical dependency. It is tailored from gambling abstinence, structured group therapy, individual and family therapy as well as educational activities that include lecture sessions and homework activities. The goals are to teach clients abstain from gambling, focus in improving important areas of their lives such as families, marital, vocational and social functions. The primary treatment program usually lasts for about 2 months, mostly carried out as a night session. Aftercare follows that may last for about a couple of years.

Aside from an individualized treatment program, family members are a vital part of the program as they themselves undergo a separate therapy. Family members are educated about the nature of gambling problems and are taught how to deal with it and how to provide support to patient's recovery. They are the support structure to help the patient's road to effective recovery.

The client is initially assessed through a series of questionnaires and interviews meant to assess the severity of their gambling behaviors to determine whether they are suited for admittance to an outpatient program. Required are complete submission of their willingness to cooperate with the treatment session, abstain from gambling and involvement of immediate family members throughout the course of therapy. Financial plans are also incorporated in the program designed to help the patient for debt repayments.

 

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