Problem Gambling and Gambling Addiction Treatment

Gambling can begin as an occasional activity but, for some people, become increasingly difficult to control.

When gambling starts to affect finances, relationships, work, family life or emotional wellbeing, it may be time to seek professional support.

At AACE Metrix, we understand that changing addictive behaviours involves more than simply deciding to stop. Understanding the patterns that maintain gambling, identifying triggers and developing new ways of responding to urges are important parts of making lasting change.

An initial assessment provides an opportunity to discuss your gambling, understand the difficulties you are experiencing and consider the most appropriate treatment options.

Changing gambling behaviour begins with understanding the cycle that keeps it going.

This may involve looking at:

  • What triggers the urge to gamble

  • Thoughts and beliefs about gambling and winning

  • Chasing losses

  • Emotional triggers

  • Gambling routines and habits

  • The relationship between stress and gambling

  • Avoidance and other coping behaviours

  • The impact of gambling on relationships and family

  • Financial and lifestyle consequences

  • Strategies for preventing a return to gambling

Developing awareness of these patterns can help create opportunities to make different choices.

Breaking the Cycle

Start Your Recovery


At AACE Metrix, we recognise that meaningful recovery needs to work in everyday life. Participants have the opportunity to apply what they learn while managing their normal responsibilities and relationships.

Recovery in Everyday Life


Problem gambling can affect partners, children, family members and other people close to the person gambling. Where appropriate, involving family members or support people can help improve understanding, communication and support for lasting behavioural change.

The Impact on Family and Relationships


For some people, gambling becomes a way of coping with stress, difficult emotions or problems in their lives. Long-term change involves developing alternative ways of managing these experiences.

Changing the Way You Cope


We are upfront about the commitment required. Recovery involves regular participation, completing work between sessions and being prepared to make meaningful changes.

Is Gambling Treatment Right for You?

  • Induction Phase

    The Induction phase is the first four weeks of the program. Participants attend a minimum of three sessions per week, with the option to join up to six sessions for additional support and engagement.

    Also includes:

    - Log book, including induction

    - Access to 6 groups a week, of which a minimum of 3 must be attended.

    - Regular individual check ins

    - Support and education for family and support people through attending Wednesday Strengthening Support group.

    - Weekly Drug Screening

  • Intensive Phase

    The Intensive Phase runs for 20 weeks, during which participants attend a minimum of three sessions per week, with the option to attend up to six sessions weekly for additional support.

    Also includes:

    - Access to 6 groups a week, of which a minimum of 3 must be attended.

    - 2 individual check in sessions

    - Support and education for family and support people through attending Wednesday Strengthening Support group.

    - Weekly Drug Screening

  • Maintenance Phase

    The Maintenance Phase extends over 14 weeks, with participants attending at least two sessions each week. Those seeking continued support can choose to participate in up to six sessions per week.

    Also includes:

    - 2nd cognitive assessment

    - Access to 6 groups a week, of which a minimum of 2 must be attended.

    - 1 individual check in session

    - Support and education for family and support people through attending Wednesday Strengthening Support group.

    - Weekly Drug Screening

  • Transition Phase

    The Transition Phase spans 14 weeks, offering a gradual step-down in structure while maintaining ongoing connection. Participants attend a minimum of one session each week, with the opportunity to take part in up to six sessions for continued guidance and support.

    Also Include:

    - Cognitive assessment at completion of the 14 weeks

    - Access to 6 groups a week, of which a minimum of 1 must be attended.

    - 1 individual check in session

    - Support and education for family and support people through attending Wednesday Family Group sessions.

    - Weekly Drug Screening

Book an Information Session.

If our program appears to meet your needs, the next step is to make an appointment with one of our Metrix Clinicians. There is a $99 booking fee for this session where you can discuss further your interest in the program and our Metrix Clinicians will ask you some questions to obtain background which helps us determine if this is the right program for you.