Counselling Services for Problem Gambling

Helplink, in collaboration with the Gambling Awareness Trust, offers a problem gambling counselling service across Ireland that is available free of charge.

We also provide free aftercare groups for clients who have completed the counselling process with our gambling counsellors, ensuring ongoing support and recovery.

Appointments are available nationwide through online or phone counselling, with face-to-face appointments offered in Galway City.

Appointments are available for individuals over 16 years of age experiencing gambling issues and their family members, who may be affected by a loved one’s gambling. Each client is assigned 6-12 free counselling sessions, with the possibility of additional sessions if recommended by their counsellor. Following the counselling sessions, clients are invited to attend weekly aftercare groups.

Understanding Problem Gambling

Problem gambling can have serious consequences for both the individual and their loved ones. It is essential to recognise the signs of problem gambling early to seek the necessary help. Problem gambling is characterised by an inability to control the urge to gamble despite negative consequences. It can affect various aspects of life, including financial stability, personal relationships, and overall well-being.

Signs You May Need Help

Identifying the signs of problem gambling can be the first step towards seeking support. Here are some indicators that you or someone you know may need help:

• Preoccupation with gambling and constantly thinking about the next opportunity to gamble.
• Needing to gamble with increasing amounts of money to achieve the desired excitement.
• Repeated unsuccessful attempts to control, cut back, or stop gambling.
• Feeling restless or irritable when trying to reduce or stop gambling.
• Using gambling as a way to escape from problems or relieve feelings of helplessness, guilt, anxiety, or depression.
• Chasing losses by gambling more to try to win back lost money.
• Lying to family members or others to hide the extent of involvement with gambling.
• Jeopardising or losing significant relationships, job opportunities, or education/career prospects due to gambling.
• Relying on others to provide money to relieve desperate financial situations caused by gambling.

Taking the First Step

Recognising that you or a loved one may have a gambling issue is a courageous first step. Seeking professional help can provide the necessary support and tools to overcome the challenges associated with problem gambling. Helplink is here to offer the assistance you need through our free counselling services.

How to Access Our Services

To arrange an appointment or obtain more information, you can:

• Email us at gamblingsupport@helplink.ie
• Fill out our online form here
• Call our national number: 0818 99 88 80

Once an appointment is scheduled, you have two options to engage with your counsellor:

1. Online Counselling: This option allows you to see your counsellor and engage in a more interactive session.
2. Phone Counselling: For those who prefer or require phone sessions.

Initial Appointment Process

Your first appointment will be one hour long to cover the counselling contract (which will be sent to you via email before the appointment), an initial assessment, and a risk assessment. All subsequent appointments are 50 minutes long.

Age Restrictions

This service is available for young people (16 to 18 years) and adults. Helplink requires written permission from a parent or guardian for anyone under 18.

Additional Resources

For other useful resources and support for problem or compulsive gambling, click here.

Important Notice

• Helplink does not provide a crisis service. Individuals seriously contemplating self-harm or in need of immediate help should visit their local A&E. Dial 999 for assistance.
• Our national phone number is not a crisis helpline. It is used to provide information about the service and to arrange appointments.