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Problem Gambling

Has gambling become more than a game for you?

Is gambling no longer an enjoyable activity? Why are you still playing?

Problem Gaming includes all gambling behavior patterns that compromise, disrupt, or damage personal, family, or vocational pursuits. Although no substance is taken in, the problem gambler gets the same effect from gambling as someone else who is drinking alcohol or abusing drugs. Gambling alters a person's mood and the gambler continues his/her behavior in an attempt to get the same effect repeatedly. These acts can become an addiction.

Responsible gambling guidelines

  1. Set a dollar limit and stick to it.
  2. Set a time limit for gambling and leave the activity when that time limit is reached whether you are winning or losing.
  3. Don't borrow money or use credit cards to gamble.
  4. Don't let gambling interfere with or substitute for your family, friends or work.
  5. Don't chase losses .
  6. Don't use gambling as a way to cope with emotional or physical pain.


If you, a friend, or someone in your family is unable to follow these responsible gambling guidelines, then the gambler may have become a problem gambler. Does a friend or someone in your family have a gambling problem? Do you have a gambling problem?

FREE counseling services are available for problem gamblers and those adversely affected by problem gambling behavior through a program established by the State of California Department of Alcohol and Drug Programs. Dr. Audrey S. Johnson is a provider of these FREE services under this program.

Please call or text Dr. Audrey S. Johnson at 818-384-3115 for an appointment to determine if you qualify for this State program. Counseling can help you cope with gambling problems whether you are the problem gambler or a close friend or a family member is the problem gambler.


Helpful Forms

Click here to view and print forms for your appointment

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