Council treats over 3,000 in 11 years
The Montana Council on Problem Gambling is celebrating its 11th year providing free outpatient treatment to problem gamblers in Montana.
“We are able to do all this with donations, not by taxes,” said Director Donna Johnson. “We at the Council are tooting our horn.”
The program has experienced tremendous growth. In its first year, the program sponsored 110 groups for problem gamblers, and last year the program sponsored 969 groups with over 3,000 group participants.
“These groups are for the gambler and the gambler's family,” Johnson said. “We are the only state that I know of that also provides groups for the families. We know when gambling becomes a problem, the families need to be involved to understand what problem gambling is and to learn how to help themselves and the gambler.”
Johnson said the program continues to grow with the support of a “wonderful board.” The board is comprised of President Mark Kennedy and board members Neil Peterson, Gene Huntington, Cynthia Breen, John Regan, Rich Miller and Tom Oberweiser.
Johnson also thanked the program's sponsors “who have the vision and dedication” to support the 24-hour helpline and treatment program. They are Town Pump Inc., the Montana Tavern Association, the Montana Coin Operators Association, the Gaming Industry Association and the Lottery.
Johnson said the Council continues to maintain a “very active” website, www.mtcpgambling.com. The site is full of information about problem gambling and lists outpatient therapists who are specially trained to work with gamblers and their families. There is also a list of Gamblers Anonymous meetings in Montana.
The Council's fall conference is set for Oct. 7-8 in Great Falls. The Council's 24-hour confidential helpline is 1-888-900-9979. The Council itself can be reached at 1-888-552-9076.