Free CEU presentation for LMHP and LCSW
“Basic Information About Gambling Addiction.”

April 7, 11:30 to 12:30 at Peace and Power Counseling 6901 Dodge St., Suite 101.

Program Content: Participants will learn about compulsive gambling/pathological gambling.  They will learn about resources in the community for low to no cost gambling evaluations and treatment.

Objectives:
1. Participants will learn the difference between problem gambling and pathological gambling.

2. Participants will learn the two different types of pathological gamblers.

3. Participants will learn the similarities and differences between pathological gambling and drug dependence.

4. Participants will learn about the South Oaks Gambling Screen (SOGS) and the Lie/Bet Screening.

5. Participants will learn how to score these screening tools.

6. Participants will learn a harm reduction/way to address clients in the precontemplation stage of the change process.

7. Participants will learn where to refer clients for low to no cost gambling treatment services in Omaha.


Please contact Gina Fricke for more information and/or to register at 402-515-7412

Did you know that 4-6% of adolescents have experienced problem gambling? That is double the number of adults. Yikes!

Gambling has recently been pushed into the spotlight with Michael Jordan’s son tweeting about losing $35,000 in one night. With the stress of being an athlete he is already more likely than his peers to struggle with gambling addiction. Michael Jordan’s son (and you!) are part of a generation growing up in a world where gambling is socially acceptable. Gambling is so intertwined in pop culture, it even made an appearance in the hit movie Toy Story 3 and the short film preceding the blockbuster! Luckily there are shows like A&E’s Intervention and MTV’s True Life to depict the some of the awful realities of the compulsive gambler.  Hitting it big and living easy seems to be a widespread goal, but pursuing this fantasy is not worth the risk. Those addicted to gambling are up to 20x more likely to commit suicide so, especially as a teen, you’re betting on more than your money.

If you or someone you know has an addiction (don’t count anyone out- everyone is at risk!) he or she may lie to cover up how much money or time is spent gambling, miss important events to gamble, use gambling jargon frequently, try to win back money from previous losses or perhaps express a desire to quit or cut back on gambling.

With National Problem Gambling Awareness Week upon us, remember to play for fun, not for money. It’s just a game. Don’t let it become more.

For more information or confidential help call 1-800-522-4700.
Information shared by the National Council on Problem Gambling for Problem Gambling Awareness Week.

I am looking for someone who is a gambler or the family member of a gambler who would be willing to be interviewed on a special I am preparing for that will be aired on CTI 22, public access channel.  I would ask the individual to share parts of his or her story.  If you or someone you know is interested please have them call me at 402-515-7412.  If you have any questions you can respond to this blog or you can email or call me directly at ginafricke@peaceandpowercounseling.com.  I look forward to hearing from you.