Problem Gambling Counselling
I provide confidential online counselling for adults across Ontario who are experiencing difficulties with gambling or are trying to reduce or stop gambling. Gambling can affect more than finances. It can also affect relationships, mental health, work, and overall well-being. I offer a warm, practical, and non-judgmental space to understand what is happening and consider your next steps.
When Gambling Becomes a Problem
Gambling may become a concern when it is difficult to control, takes up more time or attention than intended, or begins to interfere with other parts of life. You do not need to use a particular label to seek support. If gambling is causing concern or you want to make a change, counselling can provide a place to start.
Signs Gambling May Be Difficult to Control
You may notice repeated attempts to cut back, gambling longer or spending more than planned, thinking about gambling frequently, chasing losses, hiding or minimizing gambling, borrowing money, or feeling restless or distressed when trying to stop.
Gambling Urges and Triggers
Urges can be connected to stress, boredom, loneliness, difficult emotions, conflict, celebrations, access to money, online opportunities, or thoughts about winning back losses. I can help you identify your personal triggers and plan for moments when an urge feels strong.
The Impact on Relationships and Finances
The Impact on Relationships and Finances
Gambling can create secrecy, conflict, stress, and loss of trust in relationships. It can also affect household finances, work, and future plans. I can help you look at these impacts with honesty and without judgment, while considering practical next steps that fit your circumstances.
Understanding the Cycle of Gambling
Gambling can develop into a repeating cycle. A trigger or difficult feeling may lead to an urge, followed by gambling, temporary relief or excitement, and then losses, regret, shame, or renewed efforts to recover what was lost. Understanding this cycle can help create opportunities for change without judgment.
Strategies for Reducing or Stopping Gambling
I can help you consider practical strategies that support your goals. Depending on what you want, this may include reducing access to gambling, creating barriers, changing routines, planning for high-risk situations, seeking support, or working toward stopping gambling.
Managing Urges and Cravings
Urges can feel intense, but they can change over time. I can help you practise ways to pause, notice the urge, delay action, shift attention, contact support, and choose a response that fits your goals.
Relapse Prevention
Relapse Prevention
Relapse prevention involves learning from high-risk situations, noticing early warning signs, preparing for urges, and creating a plan for when gambling thoughts or behaviours return. I can help you review what supports your goals and identify steps to take after a setback without shame.
You Don’t Have to Wait for Things to Get Worse
You do not need to wait until gambling has caused a major financial, relationship, or emotional crisis before seeking help. You can reach out when you first notice concern, want to understand your gambling, or feel ready to make a change.
What to Expect
I provide confidential online counselling for adults across Ontario. You can work toward your own goals, whether that means reducing gambling, stopping gambling, preventing relapse, repairing relationships, or developing healthier coping strategies.
Professional Credentials
I am Greg Clarke, B.Ed., RSSW, MATS, CPGC, ADS. I am a Registered Social Service Worker (RSSW) who provides psychotherapy services within my professional scope of practice.
My Approach
I use a supportive, practical, and non-judgmental approach. I work collaboratively with clients to understand their gambling patterns, identify triggers, develop strategies for managing urges, and build healthier ways of coping. My experience includes problem gambling, addictions, mental health, crisis intervention, and counselling.
Training and Experience
I am Greg Clarke, B.Ed., RSSW, MATS, CPGC, ADS. I hold the Canadian Problem Gambling Counsellor (CPGC) credential and have previous experience with the Responsible Gambling Council’s PlaySmart Centre. I am a Registered Social Service Worker (RSSW) who provides psychotherapy services within my professional scope of practice.
Rebuilding Healthy Routines and Coping Strategies
I can help you rebuild routines that support your well-being, strengthen coping strategies, and address the stress, emotions, or life circumstances connected with gambling. We can focus on practical steps that are meaningful and manageable for you.