Jody Bechtold has been treating individuals with gambling disorder since 2006. She is a clinical social worker, counselor, professional coach and CEO of The Better Institute. Her public speaking, conference presentations, training and journal publications are focused on gambling addiction. She is an International Gambling Counselor Certification Board Member and sits on the Membership Committee of the National Council on Problem Gambling. She is based in Pittsburgh, PA, USA. Alyssa N. Wilson is Associate Professor and Department Chair of the Applied Behavior Analysis Program at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology in Los Angeles. She is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst Doctoral (BCBA-D), and a Licensed Behavior Analyst in the state of Missouri. Dr. Wilson's research focuses on biopsychosocial aspects of problem gambling, including assessment and treatment provision. She is based in Los Angeles, CA, USA.
Not all addictions are the same, so treating them should address the unique features of the addiction, in this case gambling disorder. Bechtold and Wilson highlight aspects of gambling disorder that differ from other addictions and provide concrete ideas for therapists and other professional helpers to improve their practice, whether they treat the gambling or refer someone for treatment. The rich details are rooted in up-to-date evidence, and case examples illustrate how to tailor and use core therapeutic skills in treating persons with gambling disorder and their families. They explain how boundary setting, addressing suicidal thoughts and behaviors, addressing finances, and interacting with and documenting for the judicial system are critical and different for people facing gambling problems. It highlights key screening and assessment tools and provides resources that can supplement therapy and increase the likelihood of recovery. This book offers insights for both new and seasoned professionals. -- Elizabeth Mulvaney, MSW, LCSW-PA, Clinical Assistant Professor, University of Pittsburgh School of Social Work The Gambling Disorder Handbook by Jody Bechtold and Alyssa Wilson is the most comprehensive, current guide for the treatment of gambling disorder I have encountered. It provides a solid, evidence-informed rationale for a broad range of treatment approaches while also addressing ""real-life"" clinical applications. The authors, using their significant clinical experience, also address under-researched topics that are critical to the treatment of gambling disorder such as financial management, restitution, money protection planning and coping with legal issues. This book is a must have for any clinician working with clients and their families struggling with gambling disorder. -- Lori Rugle, PhD, ICGC-II/BACC New to treating gambling disorders? Struggling to translate theory/research? Well, Bechtold and Wilson provide an updated, clear, concise, practical, and evidence-based treatment guide. Current trends, gambling subtypes, holistic emphasis, case illustrations, and models of intervention--application connect the dots! This is a must-read treatment roadmap for every addiction professional. -- Deborah G. Haskins, Ph.D., LCPC, ACS, MAC, ICGC-II, CCGSO, BACC Owner/Chief Clinical Consultant – MOSAIC Consulting and Counseling Services President, Maryland Council on Problem Gambling A must read! ""The Gambling Disorder Treatment Handbook"" serves as a much needed, modern resource for those treating problem gambling. Addressing a wide range of relevant topics and offering up to date statistics, this book is a valuable asset to any treatment professional, educator or parent dealing with gambling related issues. -- Josh Ercole, Executive Director of the Council on Compulsive Gambling of Pennsylvania I appreciate the opportunity to review and recommend this informative and well laid out manuscript written by Jody Bechtold and Alyssa Wilson. I am sure the clinicians that will utilize this book will gain the knowledge necessary to provide excellent therapeutic skills to the problem/disordered gambler. I look forward to being able to share this book with our treatment providers. The case studies will help the clinician to understand the dynamics of the problem/disordered gambler. I would recommend this book to others in this field. -- Neva Pryor, MS