Brief Therapies for Problem Gambling Substance Abusers

Brief Therapies for Problem Gambling Substance Abusers

This project evaluates the efficacy of brief interventions for individuals seeking treatment for substance use disorders who also have gambling problems. In total, 220 problem gambling substance abusers will be randomized to one of three conditions: (a) a control condition consisting of 10 minutes of psychoeducation about gambling, (b) 10 minutes of brief advice about problem gambling and how to reduce it, or (c) four session of motivational and cognitive-behavioral therapy. Gambling, substance use and psychosocial problems will be assessed using standardized instruments at pre-treatment, month 2, 5, 8, 12, 16, 20 and 24-month follow-up evaluations.

Inclusion Criteria:

• age > 18 years
• current (past-year) DSM-IV criteria for alcohol, cocaine, opioid or marijuana abuse or dependence
• score >3 on the past-two month SOGS
• report an average of >2 gambling days per month for the past 2 months; (e) spent an average of >$50/month on gambling in the past 2 months
• English speaking
• sign informed consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

• have uncontrolled major psychiatric disorders other than substance use that require inpatient hospitalization (e.g., active bipolar disorder, psychosis, suicidality)
• desire specific gambling treatment or are currently receiving treatment for gambling
• have severe cognitive impairment
• read below 5th grade level
• plan to relocate >100 miles or are likely to be incarcerated