PROBLEM GAMBLING PROVIDERS

MNAPG works closely with Minnesota's problem gambling treatment community. Problem gambling counselors play a vital role in helping Minnesotans affected by gambling-related harm. We support counselors through training, professional development and advocacy for fair compensation and the resources needed to stay current with changes in the gambling industry.

Free Financial Counseling Options for Minnesota Residents Impacted by Gambling

LSS Financial Counseling

We understand that problem gambling can strain finances. That’s why we’ve partnered with Lutheran Social Services counselors to provide a valuable, no-cost resource for those experiencing financial issues from gambling, whether you are the gambler or a family member: Financial Choice services through LSS Financial Counseling.

Learn More and Apply Here

GamFin

If gambling has created financial challenges, you’re not alone, and you don’t have to face them by yourself. GamFin financial counselors are here to help you:

Take control of debt
Boost your money confidence
Rebuild and strengthen your credit
Ease money-related tension with loved ones
Explore your financial options
Build lasting financial habits
Create a budget that works
Transform your relationship with money

Learn More and Apply Here

Regular meetings bring providers together to network, exchange ideas and learn from colleagues across the state. MNAPG also shares updates on outreach, prevention and advocacy efforts.

We encourage providers to become members of both MNAPG and the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG). This is a great way to stay informed about problem gambling developments in Minnesota and at the federal level. As a member, you can:

Attend monthly NCPG webinars for free
Receive discounts for conferences
Be eligible for MNAPG scholarships to attend the national conference, and
Lend support to both organizations at the state and federal levels

Training to Become a Provider

Minnesota requires counselors seeking problem gambling certification to complete 60 hours of specialized training. After completing these hours, counselors may qualify to take the ICGC-II exam and, if they meet all requirements and pass the exam, earn the ICGC-II credential.

To maintain certification, counselors must renew every three years by completing 60 hours of approved, non-repetitive continuing education. At least 30 of those hours must be gambling- or gaming-specific and approved by the International Problem Gambling and Gaming Certification Organization (IPGGC, formerly IGCCB). The remaining 30 hours may be earned through a variety of continuing education activities in the behavioral health field. For more information, visit the IPGGC website.

The Minnesota Department of Human Services offers a reimbursement program to help cover the cost of the required 60 hours of problem gambling training. Use this link for details.

Reduce time and money spent on online gambling with voluntary, self-exclusion apps that block online sites.

LEARN HOW

Two voluntary, self-exclusion tools for online gambling sites.

Given that many gamblers may be moving online, MNAPG is offering individual subscriptions for an online self-exclusion tool called Gamban. This tool enables the gambler to block tens of thousands of online gambling sites on all devices. MNAPG has purchased one-year subscriptions that can block up to 15 devices in one household.

If you are interested, please email sstucker@mnapg.org and a link will be provided to set up the account.

BetBlocker helps you, or those you care about, ensure that they can manage their access to gambling in a safe and appropriate manner. Whether that means restricting altogether, or limiting during periods of vulnerability, BetBlocker can help. Visit https://www.betblocker.org to download this free app.

TOOLS FOR YOUR CLIENTS

Brochures

MNAPG offers a variety of informational brochures for use in reception areas, waiting rooms and community outreach efforts. To request copies, please complete our order form.

MNAPG Normative Feedback Tool

This interactive survey asks clients about their gambling behaviors, preferences and attitudes. As they complete the survey, they can compare their responses with those of other Minnesotans.

At the end of the survey, participants receive a personalized report showing where they fall on the problem gambling spectrum. To preview the survey, click here.

GAMBLING DISORDER SCREENING TOOL KIT

Screening Standards Manual NCPG

Gambling Assessment Manual NCPG

Your First Step to Change, 2nd Edition. A self-help toolkit of resources to help start the journey toward recovery from problem gambling behavior.

What is Gambling Disorder? One-page article describing gambling disorder from a mental health perspective.

Why Screen for Gambling? Evidence-based information about the importance of screening for gambling disorder.

The Brief Biosocial Gambling Screen. Our recommended brief screen for gambling disorder (a one-page, “printer friendly” screener)

Gambling Resources & Referrals. Additional problem gambling information and tools for self-help and referrals.

BBGS e-Screener. An electronic version of our Brief Biosocial Gambling Screen (only users see their results).

INSPIRING SUCCESS STORIES

You and your clients should know that treatment has helped improve the lives of many Minnesotans with a gambling problem. We have a trove of stories reflecting this success.