Problem Gambling Services

Persons concerned about their own gambling can access assessment and treatment services in all three counties. Gamblers are welcome to invite concerned others to attend with them. Mandatory and self-referrals are welcome.

The program is designed to assist the client who is in any stage of change regardless of referral source. We have specialized counselling services for youth, young adults and older adults (55+). We are designated to facilitate referrals to any of the four inpatient problem gambling treatment programs in Ontario. Referrals to outside agencies and services are readily available.

Persons who are concerned about someone else's gambling can call us at ADSTV for information. Consultations and ongoing counselling are available by telephone or in person in our three counties. We have information available about how gambling problems develop, the odds and risks of gambling, how to cope, and dealing with financial concerns.

Counselling for gamblers and significant others is offered on a one-to one, couple, family and group basis. Our service is available to anyone 12 years and older. Clients may choose whatever counselling is most comfortable for them. When persons first attend our agency they do so on an individual basis (but may bring a supportive person as mentioned above). Some people participate only in individual counseling but others become part of one of our support groups.

Some clients choose to stop all gambling. Some choose to stop only the gambling that is creating difficulties. Others choose to learn to gamble moderately. We attempt to help people sort through just what kinds of change they want to make and then we provide assistance in working on their goals.

Once persons call our agency a counsellor can see them within one to seven business days from the call depending on their schedules. Persons without a telephone are welcome to drop in and make an appointment. If needed, a counsellor will see them as soon as she is available. Our problem gambling counselling is completely separate from substance use counselling. There is no fee and information shared is kept confidential.

Financial crisis counseling is available as part of our service by a qualified volunteer financial advisor who will provide information and strategies. We do not provide financial loans.

We are also pleased to offer community presentations to any groups about problem gambling or prevention of problem gambling. In addition, any professionals are welcome to contact us for a consultation or in-service. We have specialized presentation for youth, young adults, caregivers and older adults (55+). To this date we have reached about 25,000 persons with our presentations.

We have written pamphlets, newsletters and booklets with information for gamblers, concerned others, youth and adults, professionals at no charge.

Call us if you wish to ask questions or require information to be sent to you. You can also visit www.opgh.on.ca for more information about problem gambling services in Ontario.

If you or someone you know has a concern about gambling, please call our confidential gambling intake line (519) 673-3242 ext *236 or click lgriffith@adstv.on.ca to e-mail our gambling intake worker. Feel free to contact us by email to learn about our current groups.