Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Problem Gamblers

The cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) approach used within the unit for the treatment of problem gambling is based on the same principles used to treat clients with anxiety disorders and depression. This approach is based on the work of Isaac Marks (Marks, 1986) and was introduced by Battersby (Tolchard and Battersby, 2000) to South Australia in 1996. The service is part of the Break Even network funded by the South Australian government Department of Families and Communities and is integrated with the Mental Health Sciences postgraduate courses in cognitive-behavioral therapy for health professionals at Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia. This chapter provides an outline of the theoretical framework, assessment process, specific treatment methods, and measurement of treatment outcomes of the Flinders Therapy Service for Problem Gamblers. A case example and outcome data are provided to demonstrate the treatment model and its effectiveness. An overview of treatment Outcomes for problem gambling assessing different modalities is discussed.