The most effective treatments include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), 12-step programs, and other evidence-based approaches. Many individuals also benefit from holistic therapies, group support, and financial counseling (for gambling addiction).
Gambling & Behavioral Addiction Treatment Options
Millions of people experience behavioral addictions, such as gambling, video games, shopping, and more. These compulsive behaviors can take over your life, causing financial, emotional, and relationship problems.
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According to the National Council on Problem Gambling, gambling addiction affects 2 million people in the U.S.
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Up to 10% of internet users struggle with compulsive online behaviors.
If you’re finding it hard to stop, help is available.
Some of the most common types of behavioral addictions include:
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Gambling Addiction: Persistent and uncontrollable gambling despite experiencing negative consequences.
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Internet & Video Game Addiction: Excessive use of digital devices, online gaming, and social media that interferes with daily life.
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Shopping Addiction (Oniomania): Uncontrollable spending and frequent purchases as a coping mechanism.
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Pornography & Sex Addiction: Obsessive engagement with sexual behaviors and sexual activity leading to distress or relationship problems.
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Food Addiction: Eating disorders surrounding compulsively binge eating specific foods for emotional relief.
Understanding Behavioral Addictions
Behavioral addictions stem from changes in brain chemistry, particularly in the dopamine reward system. Similar to substance addictions, engaging in these compulsive behaviors triggers a release of dopamine, reinforcing the need to repeat the action for pleasure or relief. Over time, individuals may develop tolerance, requiring more frequent or intense engagement in the behavior to achieve the same effect.
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It is estimated that 3–6% of the population struggles with some form of behavioral addiction.
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Studies suggest that as many as 10 million Americans are affected by compulsive gambling.
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Internet gaming disorder affects between 1–10% of gamers, depending on the population studied.
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Compulsive buying affects up to 5% of adults, with women being slightly more affected than men.
Signs of Having a Behavioral Addiction
If you or someone you know is experiencing the following symptoms, treatment may be necessary:
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Preoccupation With the Behavior: Constant thoughts about engaging in the activity.
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Loss of Control: Inability to cut down or stop despite making multiple attempts.
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Neglecting Responsibilities: The addiction interferes with work, school, or family obligations.
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Needing More to Get the Same Satisfaction: Increasing the frequency or intensity of the behavior over time.
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Emotional Distress When Unable to Engage: Irritability, anxiety, or depression when trying to stop.
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Lying or Hiding the Behavior: Being secretive about activities and denying the extent of the problem.
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Using the Behavior as an Escape: Engaging in the activity to avoid dealing with stress, boredom, or emotional pain.
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Relationship and Financial Problems: Addiction strains personal relationships and may lead to financial difficulties.
Gambling & Behavioral Addiction Treatment Options
There are many effective treatment options for gambling and behavioral addictions. The right approach depends on your needs, but therapy is one of the most proven ways to regain control and build healthier habits.
Behavioral Therapies
Behavioral talk therapy can help change unhealthy thought patterns and behaviors linked to addiction. They provide tools to manage urges, cope with emotions, and develop healthier habits.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
CBT helps identify and change negative thought patterns that fuel addiction. It teaches coping strategies to prevent relapse.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
DBT focuses on emotional regulation and coping skills. It’s especially helpful for people struggling with impulse control and extreme emotions.
Motivational Interviewing (MI)
MI helps increase motivation to change by addressing ambivalence and reinforcing personal reasons for quitting addictive behaviors.
Trauma-Informed Therapy
This approach recognizes past trauma’s role in addiction and helps individuals heal while learning healthy coping mechanisms.
Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP)
ERP is effective for compulsive behaviors, gradually exposing individuals to triggers while preventing unhealthy responses.
Group Therapy and Peer Support
Support groups like Gamblers Anonymous (GA) and therapy groups provide community support, shared experiences, and accountability.
Inpatient and Residential Treatment Programs
Inpatient and residential programs provide 24/7 care in a structured environment. Patients stay at a treatment facility and receive intensive therapy, medical support, and relapse prevention strategies. These programs are ideal for individuals with severe addiction, co-occurring mental health conditions, or those struggling to recover in their current environment.
Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP)
PHPs offer structured, full-day treatment while allowing individuals to return home at night. They include therapy, medical supervision, and support while maintaining some independence. PHP is a good option for those who need significant care but don’t require 24/7 supervision.
Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)
IOPs provide flexible, structured treatment several days a week, allowing individuals to continue work, school, or family responsibilities. These programs include therapy, support groups, and relapse prevention strategies, making them ideal for those needing a step-down level of care after inpatient treatment.
Outpatient Treatment Programs
Outpatient programs offer the most flexible treatment, with scheduled therapy sessions and support groups while living at home. This option is best for individuals with mild to moderate addiction who have a supportive environment and strong personal motivation to recover.
Specific Therapy Approaches for Behavioral Addictions
Different therapy methods target specific challenges that come with behavioral addictions. These approaches help address the emotional, mental, and practical aspects of recovery.
Financial Counseling for Gambling Addiction
Gambling addiction can lead to serious financial problems. Financial counseling helps individuals create a plan to manage debt, rebuild savings, and develop healthier money habits to prevent future gambling-related issues.
Skill-Building & Problem-Solving Therapies
Addiction often interferes with daily life. Therapy can help develop decision-making, impulse control, and coping skills, making it easier to handle stress, triggers, and real-world challenges.
Relapse Prevention Therapy
This therapy focuses on identifying triggers and high-risk situations that could lead to relapse. Patients learn strategies to handle cravings, manage stress, and stay on track with their recovery goals.
Holistic & Wellness Approaches for Behavioral Addiction
Holistic approaches focus on healing the mind and body together. These methods can improve emotional well-being and overall recovery success.
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Mindfulness & Meditation: Helps manage stress, cravings, and impulsive behaviors by increasing self-awareness.
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Exercise & Physical Health Support: Regular movement boosts mood, reduces anxiety, and creates healthy routines.
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Nutritional Counseling: A balanced diet can improve brain function and emotional stability during recovery.
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Art & Music Therapy: Creative outlets help individuals process emotions, reduce stress, and express themselves in healthy ways.
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Yoga & Breathing Techniques: These practices promote relaxation, emotional balance, and impulse control.
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Acupuncture & Massage Therapy: Can ease withdrawal symptoms, reduce stress, and support overall well-being.
Support Groups for Behavioral Addictions
Support groups provide a safe space to connect with others going through similar struggles. They offer encouragement, accountability, and proven strategies for long-term recovery.
Gamblers Anonymous (GA)
GA is a 12-step support group designed specifically for compulsive gamblers. Meetings provide peer support, recovery tools, and a structured program to help individuals regain control.
SMART Recovery
SMART Recovery is a science-based alternative to 12-step programs. It focuses on self-empowerment, problem-solving, and building coping strategies to manage addictive behaviors.
Specialized Support Groups for Other Behavioral Addictions
There are many support groups tailored for specific behavioral addictions, including gaming addiction, compulsive shopping, and internet addiction. These groups help individuals connect with others facing the same challenges.
Aftercare & Relapse Prevention for Behavioral Addictions
Long-term recovery doesn’t end with treatment. It requires ongoing support to maintain progress and prevent relapse.
Ongoing Therapy & Check-Ins
Regular therapy sessions and scheduled check-ins with a counselor help individuals stay on track, manage stress, and reinforce healthy habits.
Sober Living & Supportive Housing
For those needing extra structure after treatment, sober living homes provide a stable, addiction-free environment with peer accountability and support.
Alumni Support Networks
Many treatment programs offer alumni networks where past participants can stay connected, attend events, and receive ongoing encouragement from peers in recovery.
How To Choose the Right Treatment Option for Gambling and Behavioral Addictions
Finding the right treatment depends on individual needs. Factors to consider include:
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Severity of Addiction: More severe addictions may require inpatient or intensive outpatient care.
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Co-Occurring Conditions: Mental health disorders like anxiety or depression may influence treatment choices.
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Personal & Professional Responsibilities: Some programs, like outpatient treatment, allow more flexibility.
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Support System: A strong home support network may help with outpatient recovery, while others may need a structured environment.
Speaking with a treatment professional can help you determine the best personalized plan for recovery.
Behavioral Addiction Treatment Options at Caron
At Caron, we offer comprehensive, evidence-based treatment for gambling and behavioral addictions. Our programs are designed to fit different levels of care and individual needs. Options may include:
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Inpatient & Residential Treatment: 24/7 structured care in a supportive environment.
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Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP): Full-day treatment with the ability to return home at night.
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Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP): Several sessions per week while maintaining daily responsibilities.
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Outpatient Therapy & Counseling: Flexible therapy sessions for continued care.
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Behavioral & Trauma-Informed Therapies: Including CBT, DBT, and relapse prevention strategies.
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Holistic & Wellness Approaches: Mindfulness, meditation, exercise, and nutrition support.
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Support Groups & Aftercare: Long-term recovery resources, peer support, and alumni networks.
Why Choose Caron Treatment Centers
Caron Treatment Centers provide compassionate, evidence-based care that prioritizes long-term recovery. Here’s what makes Caron stand out:
Proven Success Rates:
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Lower readmission rate (5.6%) compared to the industry average of 11.6%–25.7%.
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Patients at Caron are twice as likely to maintain recovery compared to other treatment providers.
Comprehensive, Individualized Care:
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Treats substance use and behavioral addictions, as well as co-occurring mental health conditions.
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Focuses on holistic healing with medical, psychological, and emotional support.
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Offers personalized treatment plans designed for lasting recovery.
A Leader in Value-Based Care:
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Caron prioritizes patient outcomes over service volume, focusing on quality care.
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Works closely with insurance providers to make treatment more accessible.
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Committed to reducing relapse rates through evidence-based therapies.
Our Behavioral Addiction Treatment Center Locations
Caron provides specialized treatment for gambling and behavioral addictions across multiple locations. Whether you need inpatient care, outpatient support, or ongoing recovery services, we have centers designed to meet your needs.
Inpatient Locations
Our residential treatment programs provide 24/7 medical and therapeutic support in structured environments that promote long-term recovery.
Caron Pennsylvania Campus
Located in Wernersville, PA, this flagship inpatient center offers comprehensive treatment for behavioral addictions, including gambling. Patients receive:
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Individualized therapy plans with evidence-based treatments such as CBT, DBT, and relapse prevention therapy.
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Expert psychiatric care to address co-occurring conditions such as anxiety, depression, and trauma.
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Holistic wellness programs, including meditation, fitness, and nutrition counseling.
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A peaceful and supportive setting designed to help individuals focus on recovery.
Caron Florida Campus
Our Florida inpatient center provides a private, luxurious treatment experience for those seeking a discreet and highly personalized approach to behavioral addiction recovery. Features include:
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Comprehensive psychiatric care and trauma-informed therapy.
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Individualized one-on-one counseling tailored to executive and high-profile individuals.
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A serene environment close to the ocean to promote healing and well-being.
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Family member involvement and long-term aftercare planning for ongoing recovery success.
Outpatient Locations
For individuals who need flexible treatment while maintaining work, school, or family responsibilities, our outpatient locations provide evidence-based therapy and support.
Atlanta
Our Atlanta center offers:
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Intensive outpatient programs (IOP) that fit into busy schedules.
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CBT, DBT, and skills training to address behavioral addiction and impulse control.
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Support for families and loved ones impacted by addiction.
Philadelphia
This center provides:
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Standard outpatient therapy to help individuals manage addiction and maintain recovery.
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Ongoing counseling and education to prevent relapse.
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Peer support groups and family therapy for holistic healing.
Pennsylvania (Wyomissing)
Located in Wyomissing, PA, this regional outpatient center offers:
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One-on-one therapy and group counseling for behavioral addictions.
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Relapse prevention programs to help individuals maintain long-term recovery.
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Flexible treatment schedules to accommodate personal and professional obligations.
Washington, D.C. Metro – Encore Outpatient Treatment Center
Our Washington D.C. center includes:
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Day and evening outpatient treatment options for convenience.
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Therapy specifically tailored for professionals balancing work and recovery.
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Education and coaching for relapse prevention.
Recovery Center Locations
For those who have completed treatment and need ongoing support, Caron’s recovery centers provide resources to maintain long-term sobriety.
New York City
Our NYC recovery center offers:
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Alumni programs and peer support groups to help individuals stay connected.
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Ongoing relapse prevention coaching to maintain progress.
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Educational workshops and counseling for long-term success beyond treatment.
How To Get Started With Treatment
Taking the first step toward recovery is important, and we’re here to help every step of the way. If you’re looking to get help and stop gambling, here’s how to begin treatment at Caron:
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Reach Out for a Confidential Consultation: Call us or fill out this contact form to speak with a specialist. This first conversation is completely confidential and helps us understand your needs.
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Insurance Verification & Admissions Assessment: We’ll work with you to verify insurance coverage, discuss treatment costs, and help determine the best program for your situation.
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Personalized Treatment Plan: Once admitted, you’ll work with our team of experts to create an individualized treatment plan based on your specific addiction, mental health needs, and personal goals.
- Begin Your Recovery Journey: Whether you enter an inpatient, outpatient, or intensive program, you’ll receive evidence-based therapy, medical support, and holistic treatments to set you on the path to lasting recovery.
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Aftercare & Long-Term Support: Caron provides ongoing therapy, alumni programs, and recovery resources to help you build a strong foundation for long-term success.
FAQs About Gambling & Behavioral Addiction Treatment
If you or a loved one is struggling with gambling or another behavioral addiction, you likely have questions about treatment, costs, and recovery options. Below are some common questions to help guide you.
If your gambling, gaming, or compulsive behavior is negatively affecting your life, including your finances, relationships, work, or mental health, it may be time to seek help. Common signs include losing control, experiencing cravings, or prioritizing the behavior over other responsibilities.
Yes! Many people recover through outpatient programs, therapy, and support groups. However, individuals with severe addiction, financial difficulties, or co-occurring mental health conditions may benefit more from an inpatient or intensive outpatient program (IOP) for structured care.
Many insurance plans cover behavioral addiction treatment, including therapy, inpatient care, and outpatient programs. Caron Treatment Centers accept a variety of insurance providers, and our team can help verify your coverage.
After treatment, you’ll receive a personalized aftercare plan that may include ongoing therapy, support groups like Gamblers Anonymous, relapse prevention education, and alumni programs to help maintain long-term recovery.
Additional Help Resources
While Caron does not offer specific programming for gambling addiction, individuals with a gambling disorder may receive treatment if they also have a substance use disorder. Our clinical team addresses co-occurring gambling addiction as part of a broader treatment plan for substance use disorders, incorporating evidence-based therapies and support to promote lasting recovery.
If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling addiction, consider reaching out to the following organizations for help:
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National Problem Gambling Helpline: Call 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537) for confidential support.
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Gamblers Anonymous (GA): A 12-step support group for individuals struggling with gambling addiction (www.gamblersanonymous.org).
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National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG): Provides resources and treatment referrals (www.ncpgambling.org).
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Gam-Anon: A support group for loved ones affected by a gambler’s addiction (www.gam-anon.org).
Caron Staff
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