Gambling Addiction Counseling

Gambling is often a silent addiction because there are no physiological signs of use, and public opinion is that gambling is not a "problem" until the gambler's losses exceed the gambler's means. 

Our goal at NewBridge is to raise awareness and help BEFORE losses become unmanageable and damage relationships and community standing.

Gambling involves risking something of value in hopes of winning more—whether through sports betting, scratch-off tickets, casino games, or online gaming. While it may start as entertainment, a psychological hold can transform it into a devastating, hidden addiction.

NewBridge Services is a state-designated expert in gambling addiction. We provide evidence-based, compassionate care for individuals and families in Morris, Passaic, and Sussex counties.

Our clinicians specialize in evidence-based treatment to change behaviors and prevent relapses. The comprehensive gambling addiction program utilizes proven treatment methods to help clients regain control of their lives, change behaviors, and prevent relapses.

NewBridge offers:

• One-hour weekly sessions with a licensed clinician to build a highly personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific goals.
• Group sessions to share experiences, gain mutual support, and build lasting coping skills.
• Family members are welcome if the gambler is not yet ready for treatment. We focus on teaching family coping strategies.
• Free gambling awareness and outreach programs for local schools and community organizations.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

• Gambling more frequently or for longer than intended
• Sacrificing favorite hobbies, recreational activities, or family gatherings to engage in gambling.
• Attempting unsuccessfully to quit gambling.
• Acting secretive or defensive regarding their gambling activities.
• Not enjoying watching a sports event without a bet on the game.
• Opening new checking accounts or applying for unnecessary credit cards to obtain more money.
• Losing control over the amount of money wagered during gambling sessions.
• Chasing losses with increasingly larger bets or making progressively riskier wagers. 
• Unexplained absences from work or school.
• Distancing or isolating from family or friends.
• Expressing feelings of guilt, shame, or remorse about gambling, but unable to stop.
• Spending excessive time online and refusing to discuss computer-related activities.

Alarmingly, this issue is reaching younger demographics than ever before, with children as young as 10 being exposed to gambling-like behaviors through video game loot boxes and e-sports wagering. The scale of this youth exposure is massive, as statistics show between 60% and 80% of high schoolers report having gambled money in the past year. Recognizing these combined behavioral, financial, and youth-centric signs is the crucial first step in intervening before the consequences become catastrophic.

Take the First Step Toward Recovery

Ready to take the first step? Call (973) 316-9333 to schedule your initial consultation and begin your journey toward wellness.

If you are a hospital or community agency referring an individual for services, please get in touch with the Access Department at 973-316-9333 first to discuss before faxing the necessary information.