Problem Gambling Directory of Services

Problem Gambling Help Line – 1-800-306-6789

24-hour help to people with gambling problems and their families. Callers receive confidential, professional service from trained counsellors, free of charge.

The help line provides:

• information;
• short-term counselling;
• crisis intervention services; and
• referrals to regional health authority problem gambling counsellors and self-help groups.

Problem Gambling counsellors help people with problems related to their gambling and also help their families deal with the impacts. Experienced counsellors provide services in out-patient settings, free of charge to Saskatchewan residents.

Problem Gambling Counsellor Directory

Services are available in health regions across the province. Find a counsellor near you.

What to expect when you ask for help

• Set up an appointment by calling the counsellor. You do not need a physician's referral. A person who is very depressed or suicidal should state the urgency when arranging to talk to a counsellor.
• One-on-one sessions usually last an hour, but can last longer. Information shared during the session is confidential.
• At the first meeting, the counsellor will ask questions about the person's situation and will assist the gambler with urgent, immediate issues first. This might include:
  • establishing controls to limit spending or access to money,
  • discussing ways to avoid gambling venues and
  • dealing with urgent emotional, family, legal, work or school issues.
• The counsellor may recommend a plan of action that includes a certain number of sessions and topics for discussion. These topics may include:
  • financial management,
  • stress reduction,
  • family communication skills,
  • alternative recreational activities,
  • the role of Gamblers Anonymous, and
  • practical ideas on how to avoid "triggers" to gambling.
• The counsellor may suggest other professional resources to assist with areas such as legal problems, financial crisis or severe depression.
• Individuals seeking assistance are free to accept or reject the recommendations of counsellors and to suggest other ideas that might be effective.
• If you aren't comfortable with your counsellor, you are able to find a new one.

There are organizations available that provide the supportive environments to share experiences with people going through similar issues, whether you are the person with a problem gambling issue or a friend or family member.

Gamblers Anonymous

Gamblers Anonymous provides people with an opportunity to share their experience. It also provides support and hope in order to stop gambling.

At regular local meetings throughout Saskatchewan, members share their gambling and abstinence experiences. They discuss the 12 steps to recovery. The only membership requirement is a desire to stop gambling. There are no membership fees.

Find a Gamblers Anonymous meeting near you.

Gam-Anon

Gam-Anon provides a supportive environment for spouses, relatives, or close friends of problem gamblers to share their experiences. This group is not affiliated with Gamblers Anonymous, but the two organizations have common goals. There is no membership fee.

Learn more about Gam-Anon.