Photo of Francis J Toal, Associate Professional Counselor in 94596, CA
Francis J Toal
Associate Professional Counselor, MBA, MS, APCC
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
Often, we are weighed down by feelings of fear, distress, sadness, pain, worry, and even guilt. These feelings can intrude on our everyday lives, affect us, and affect those around us. Those closest to us often see our suffering more than we can. Our culture has made it so that we bury these feelings and emotions and throw up a façade of strength so as not to be a burden or worse, be judged. Meanwhile, on the inside, we struggle and often seek out destructive coping mechanisms, often towards a path of addiction. This can lead to a vicious cycle of behavior, suffering, and regret that we feel helpless to get out of.
Often, we are weighed down by feelings of fear, distress, sadness, pain, worry, and even guilt. These feelings can intrude on our everyday lives, affect us, and affect those around us. Those closest to us often see our suffering more than we can. Our culture has made it so that we bury these feelings and emotions and throw up a façade of strength so as not to be a burden or worse, be judged. Meanwhile, on the inside, we struggle and often seek out destructive coping mechanisms, often towards a path of addiction. This can lead to a vicious cycle of behavior, suffering, and regret that we feel helpless to get out of.
(925) 567-2748 View (925) 567-2748
Photo of Silver Lake Psychology, Psychologist in 94596, CA
Silver Lake Psychology
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
Learn how to feel more connected to yourself, others, and the world around you. Therapy provides all the elements of intimacy: honest communication, vulnerability, and trust. Good therapy is challenging yet warm, providing both structure and empathy for your unique experience.
Learn how to feel more connected to yourself, others, and the world around you. Therapy provides all the elements of intimacy: honest communication, vulnerability, and trust. Good therapy is challenging yet warm, providing both structure and empathy for your unique experience.
(415) 612-3556 View (415) 612-3556

Gambling Therapists

How do gambling rehabilitation programs work?

There are both inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation programs. However, for some individuals, an outpatient facility may not offer enough hands-on care, and for other individuals, an inpatient facility may be too much. Both types of care have knowledgeable health professionals including physicians (in the case of residential programs), psychologists, counselors, psychotherapists, and recovered mentors.

How do gambling 12-step programs combined with psychotherapy work?

Abstinence and maintenance are key for 12-step gambling disorder programs. Individuals in a 12-step group rely on each other for support and accountability. In addition, there is often a spiritual element to these programs, whereby belief in a higher power can help the individual overcome their tendencies. If an individual genuinely wants to cease gambling, attending a 12-step program along with regular psychotherapy can be highly effective.

How long does therapy take for gambling disorder?

Recovering from gambling disorder takes time and effort. There’s no precise timeline for treatment, but a person can see change if they stick with therapy and if they have the will and desire to stop. Treatment for gambling disorder requires honesty in therapy, a commitment to understanding triggers, as well as the development of coping skills. Making lifestyle changes is also important, such as staying away from lotteries, online gambling, and casinos.

Is relapse a problem for those with a gambling disorder?

Gambling disorder is often chronic and can be life-long; therefore relapse may present a problem for some individuals. But effective treatment can bring a person’s life under control. To remain healthy and on track, the individual may need to regularly check in with their support group or psychotherapist. Frequently refreshing their tools of recovery can be helpful.