Author Archives: Josh Ercole

Problem Gambling – Co-Occurring Disorders

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Today, more people have access to, and are participating in, gambling activities than ever before. While the majority of the population is able to gamble without developing any issues, there are a small percentage of people who are unable to maintain responsible levels of play.  Unfortunately for these individuals, this often progresses to a point where several areas of their lives are impacted in a negative way.

During this program participants will learn about the problem and how it develops, the overlap between problem gambling, mental health issues and substance use disorders, and what help is available in Pennsylvania.


Problem Gambling 101

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Today, more people have access to, and are participating in, gambling activities than ever before. While the majority of the population is able to gamble without developing any issues, there are a small percentage of people who are unable to maintain responsible levels of play. Unfortunately for these individuals, this often progresses to a point where several areas of their lives are impacted in a negative way. During this program participants will learn about the problem, how it develops and what help is available for someone who is suffering from gambling disorders.

Presenter: Josh Ercole


Problem Gambling Implications for Child Welfare

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This 90-minute webinar is designed to introduce the latest legalized gambling options in Pennsylvania and define problematic and disordered gambling. With the expansion that includes online sports betting, casino games, and lotteries, more individuals and families will be impacted by gambling problems. This can lead to children and families becoming involved in the child welfare system. This webinar will educate professionals to assess families through a gambling lens, including signs of parent problem gambling. Participants will also learn about the PA Council on Problem Gambling as a resource for education and referrals for help.

Who Should Attend: This module is intended for public and private child welfare professionals.


Sneak Preview: The Gambling Disorder Treatment Handbook

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Presented by: Jody Bechtold, LCSW, ICGC-II, BACC, PC & Alyssa N. Wilson, PhD., BCBA-D, LBA

In a time where we see increased access, availability and participation in gambling, it is also important to recognize there is also in increase in the number of individuals whose lives are negatively impacted. While there is an ever-growing number of research studies on the topic, there are a limited number of current resources available to counselors and mental health professionals focused on practical application of treatment services. This program offers a sneak peek into the creation of a new book aimed at addressing this.

Our presenters joined us to discuss the paths that have led them to this point, and how by using their clinical and research experience, they have been able to present a new book on treatment strategies, focusing on topics relevant to today’s world. Their book, The Gambling Disorder Treatment Handbook” is the focus of discussion in the program.


Foundations of Responsible Gambling

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Presented by: Ken Litwak II, CADC, ICGC-I, CCTP, DRCC

This webinar discusses the basic principles of responsible gambling. This broadcast gives a brief overview of problem and disordered gambling, discusses the unique aspects of internet compared to brick and mortar casino gambling, and describes the principles of responsible gambling. We review the warning signs of problem gambling and discuss where to go for help for gamblers and family members who feel they have a problem.


The Wide World of Sports Betting

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Presented by: Daniel J. Trolaro, MS

Consistently, there are more creative and fast paced forms of entertainment to help people escape, hope, or adjust to the stress of life. Whether finding it through substance, technology or a variety of other methods, individuals are becoming more daring, tech savvy and tech dependent. Two areas that have seen explosive growth exists in the world of daily fantasy sports contests and the emergence of legalized sports gambling.

With the advent and expansion of these skill-based forms of entertainment, individuals have access to information and opportunities to wager 24/7. This workshop will explore the psychological aspects and gambling-like mechanics common to daily fantasy sports contests while looking at emerging trends and future considerations in sports gambling.


May 16, 2014 – FREE Gambling Training with Preferred Systems, Inc. – Erie, PA

Preferred Systems, Inc. along with The Council on Compulsive Gambling of Pennsylvania presents

The Many Facets of Gambling Problems

Friday, May 16, 2014
9 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (registration at 8:30 a.m.)
Erie Maennerchor Club
1607 State Street, Erie, PA 16501

Presenter

Louis R. Weigele, LISW-S, ACSW, BCD, NCGC-II

Goals & Objectives

Upon completion of this training, participants will:

  • Become familiar with gambling and factors in the development of gambling problems
  • Become familiar with behavioral, psycho-social and neurological pathways involved in the development of gambling problems.
  • Become familiar with screening, assessment and treatment practices for individuals presenting for gambling disorder services
  • Understand underlying psycho-social considerations that contribute to the development of gambling disorders.
  • Understand how accessibility of gambling opportunities may increase risk for certain individuals.
  • Become familiar with best practices in the delivery of disordered gambling services

Agenda

Morning session – Introduction to gambling and disordered gambling

9:00 – 9:15 – Introduction and overview

9:15 – 10:00 – History and current status of gambling related problems

10:00 – 10:30 – Overview of gambling – Terms, games, accessibility, diagnoses

10:30 – 10:45- Break

10:45 – 11:15 – Pathways to gambling disorders

11:15 – 12:30 – Screening, assessment, treatment and prevention overview

12:30 – 1:30 – Lunch

Afternoon session – Advanced consideration in disordered gambling

1:30 – 2:30 – Motivational Interviewing in engagement and assessment phases

2:30- 3:15 – Deciding on interventions based on severity and readiness

3:15 – 3:30 – Break

3:30 – 4:30 – Challenging case discussion

Registration

For more information or details about registration, click Here or contact Preferred Systems, Inc. at (888) 455-7437 or (814) 456-0406


May 2, 2014 – Bucks AAA Gambling Conference

The Bucks County Area Agency on Aging presents

Addiction, Gambling and Its Impact

Friday, May 2, 2014 • 8am – 3:30pm

Bucks County Community College • Gateway Auditorium
275 Swamp Road
Newtown, PA 18940

For Registration Info, Click Here


Temple University Webinar – A Neurological Perspective on Gambling

Problem Gambling with Co-occurring Disorders

Featuring Dr. Catherine Williams of the Office of Addiction Services

Wednesday, April 30, 2014

12:30 PM to 2:30 PM

Temple University

Ritter Hall – Room 109

1301 Cecil B. Moore Avenue

Philadelphia, PA 19122

Ph: 215-204-6252   •   email: cspcd@temple.edu

Click Here for more info