Vermont to offer free problem gambling training for providers

The Vermont Department of Mental Health will begin offering a free problem gambling training program for mental health and substance use treatment providers on January 13.

"There's a real need for more providers who can understand, recognize and support people affected by problem gambling," Vermont Department of Mental Health Commissioner Emily Hawes said.

"By expanding the number of trained specialists across the state, we're making it easier for people to get help close to home. We're excited to help grow this network across Vermont."

Participants who are able to complete the 10-week online program will receive 30 continuing education credits and become eligible to earn a Vermont Problem Gambling Specialist Certificate.

The certificate authorizes private practices and agencies associated with problem gambling treatment to be listed as referral sources on the Vermont Gambling Helpline at no cost.

The problem gambling training program will cover gambling basics, co-occurring disorders, assessment, ethics, harm reduction, working with families and LGBTQIA+ cultural competence.

According to the Vermont Department of Mental Health, nationally recognized problem gambling experts, including Jody Bechtold, Dr. Lori Rugle and Jodie Nealley, will instruct each session over the entire 10-week span.

Nealley is currently in long-term recovery from problem gambling, offering a lived experience for mental health and substance use treatment providers throughout the program.

The Department of Mental Health stated problem gambling habits typically occur "with anxiety, depression and substance use disorders," as well as carry "significant" economic and social costs.

On December 9, the Wyoming Gaming Commission began participating in the National Voluntary Self-Exclusion Program, which prohibits access to multiple forms of wagering such as online sports betting, pari-mutuel wagering and skill-based amusement games.

The self-exclusion program, featuring technology from idPair, includes online enrollment as well as reinstatement, a multi-jurisdictional model and support resources.