When the Minnesota Alliance on Problem Gambling (MNAPG) partnered with LSS Financial Counseling in mid-2024, the goal was to connect individuals affected by problem gambling with practical, compassionate financial guidance. Less than two years in, the program is steadily growing and making a meaningful difference.
60 clients in 2025, $13,000 in credit card debt repaid, one client closed on a home within seven months
In the fourth quarter of 2024, LSS Financial Counseling worked with four MNAPG-referred clients. That number quickly rose to 60 clients for 2025 and, through early May of 2026, 28 individuals have already accessed services — suggesting that awareness and utilization of the program are expanding.
Referrals come from a variety of sources, including the MNAPG website, counselors and community organizations. The most common referrals are through word of mouth. Family members and friends, often witnessing the financial and emotional toll of gambling, are helping connect loved ones to support.
LSS Financial Counseling Individualized Approach:
LSS Financial Counseling employs an individualized approach that starts with a holistic financial review, taking time to understand what brought the person in, what concerns feel most urgent and what goals clients hope to achieve. From there, counselors may pull credit reports, organize debts and review monthly expenses to get a clear picture of the situation.
For many, credit card debt is a central challenge. In those cases, LSS may recommend a debt management plan, which consolidates multiple payments into a single monthly due date and often reduces interest rates. This structure can be especially helpful for individuals in recovery, offering both simplicity and accountability.
Other clients arrive overwhelmed, sometimes with unopened bills and collection notices. In these situations, just opening and organizing mail can be a critical first step. For those whose financial situation may not be resolved through repayment alone, counselors can also provide information about options such as bankruptcy, helping clients make informed decisions without judgment.
That emphasis on dignity and understanding is central to the program’s impact. According to client satisfaction surveys, the most common feedback is that individuals say they do not feel judged. This is particularly important, because shame and fear often prevent people from seeking help. Creating a safe, respectful environment allows clients to move forward.
LSS has a team of financial counselors who have completed specialized training through MNAPG and are knowledgeable about gambling-related challenges. When gambling is identified as a factor — either at intake or later — clients are connected with these counselors. And to better meet the needs of a diverse community, LSS recently added a Spanish-speaking, gambling-knowledgeable counselor.
While the program is still relatively new, early outcomes are promising. Six MNAPG clients have enrolled in debt management plans since the partnership began. Together, participants have already repaid approximately $13,000 in credit card debt.
Individual stories further demonstrate the impact. One client, after months of financial disarray and ongoing recovery work, was able to regain stability and close on a home within seven months — while remaining free from gambling during that time.
As the partnership grows, LSS Financial Counseling is proving to be a vital complement to treatment and recovery services. By addressing the financial consequences of problem gambling with empathy and structure, the program is helping individuals not only regain control of their finances but rebuild confidence in their future.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the MNAPG-LSS Financial Counseling partnership?
It is a partnership between MNAPG and LSS Financial Counseling designed to connect individuals affected by problem gambling with specialized, compassionate financial guidance and debt management services.
Can financial counseling help with gambling debt?
Yes. Specialized financial counselors can help organize debts, recommend debt management plans to consolidate payments and reduce interest rates, and explore options like bankruptcy for those with gambling-related debt.
Do LSS financial counselors understand problem gambling?
Yes. LSS has a team of financial counselors who have completed specialized training through MNAPG to ensure they are knowledgeable about gambling-related challenges and can offer support without judgment.