Gambling Addiction Therapy

Counselling & Psychotherapy for Problematic Gambling in Wolverhampton, West Midlands & Online Throughout the UK

Gambling addict juggling poker chips

Understanding Gambling Addictions

Problem gambling can gradually begin to influence far more than the act of placing a bet.

You may find yourself thinking about gambling frequently, chasing losses, increasing the amount you spend, hiding the extent of your gambling from other people, or using gambling as a way of escaping boredom, stress or difficult emotions.

Winning or gambling itself can provide excitement, relief or a temporary change in how you feel, while losses may create a strong urge to continue in an attempt to recover the money. This can create a repeating cycle in which gambling becomes increasingly difficult to step away from, even when you recognise the financial, emotional or relationship consequences.

Therapy can help you understand what gambling is doing for you psychologically, identify the situations and patterns that trigger the urge to gamble, and begin developing different ways of responding without relying on gambling to change how you feel.

Why You Might Have Developed a Gambling Addiction

Experiences that can lead to the development of a gambling addiction often stem from a combination of psychological, social, and environmental factors.

For instance, individuals may engage in gambling as a way to cope with stress, anxiety, or feelings of inadequacy, finding momentary relief in the excitement and potential rewards.

Additionally, early exposure to gambling within a family or peer group can normalise the behaviour, creating a pathway to compulsive patterns.

Situations such as financial difficulties or relationship problems can further exacerbate these tendencies, with gambling appearing as an escape or a misguided attempt to solve money-related issues.

The thrill of winning can also create a powerful psychological hook, leading individuals to chase their losses despite escalating consequences.

This intricate interplay of personal experiences and external influences highlights the complexity of gambling addiction and the importance of understanding it within a broader context.

WHO WE ARE

Meet Paul & Joan

Hello, Tranceform Psychology incorporates the private practices of Paul Lee BSc MSc who specialises in Reality Therapy & CBT and Joan Lee BSc who offers counselling, evidence-based hypnotherapy and specialist paediatric hypnotherapy for children aged 9 to 17.

Paul Lee MSC in his office
Joan Lee BSc

Frequently Asked Questions About Therapy for Gambling Addictions

How many sessions will I need?
This varies for each person. Some people feel clearer within a few sessions, while others benefit from longer-term support.

How Much Do You Charge?
Face-to-face & online therapy sessions cost £70 per hour. We also offer a pre-paid, 10 session course of CBT-Based Reality Therapy for £650.

Is therapy confidential?
Yes. Everything discussed is treated with professional confidentiality.

Do I need a GP referral?
No referral is required. You can contact Tranceform Psychology directly.

Can gambling problems really improve?
Yes. Many people who once felt trapped by a gambling addiction now live calmer, freer and more confident lives.