Gamblers Anonymous alternatives: Virtual treatment from home
Author:
Jonathan
Published:
Jun 13, 2024
The sad news is that Gambling Addiction rates across the country are rising rapidly. The bit of positive news is that there are many resources and treatment options available to those who may be struggling. One traditional resource, Gamblers Anonymous, is a fellowship of people who share a common goal of recovering from Gambling Addiction.
It’s a support group rooted in medical therapy and based in “ancient spiritual principles,” turning oneself over to a divine power in a 12-step process for guidance. While GA offers a useful primary source of care for some and a proper supplementary form of care for others, it is not necessarily for everyone. This article explores Gambling Disorder treatment alternatives, focusing on options that cater to diverse needs and preferences, including virtual treatment from home.
Gambling Addiction Treatment Options
Virtual Treatment
Virtual treatment for Gambling Addiction offers a flexible and convenient option for those seeking help. Birches Health provides all-encompassing, insurance-backed virtual care tailored to the individual, making it accessible to anyone with an internet connection. This approach allows individuals to receive personalized treatment without leaving the comfort of their homes.
Virtual treatment can include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), one-on-one counseling, group therapy, family therapy and digital engagement and peer support to facilitate self-guided learning. The effectiveness of virtual treatment can be comparable to in-person care for many behavioral health issues, offering real-time interaction with therapists and a structured support system.
Without needing to go to a physical location, virtual treatment patients can experience discreet care while often saving time and money associated with travel and overhead costs. The virtual nature also allows for quicker intakes and more flexible scheduling. With digital tools like online exercises to aid in the process, virtual treatment can enhance the experience by having patients apply and tangibly work through their addiction.
Patients of Birches can capitalize on 24/7 access to the BH care team. To explore virtual treatment options or learn more about the offerings, you can call (833) 483-3838 or email hello@bircheshealth.com.
In-Person Individual Care
For those who prefer face-to-face interactions, in-person individual care remains a robust option. This type of care involves meeting with a therapist in a private setting, allowing for personalized and confidential treatment where nonverbal cues and a direct connection in a tangible environment can help a counselor provide better care. Individual therapy sessions can help patients develop coping strategies, address underlying issues contributing to their addiction and work through personal challenges in a focused environment.
Some Birches Health clinicians also offer in-person treatment sessions, so depending on where you are located, you may be able to pursue some in-person sessions. You can also find other in-person care experts through your insurance company or the NCPG website.
Group Therapy
Group therapy, like Gamblers Anonymous, provides a supportive environment where individuals can share their experiences and learn from others facing similar challenges. This form of therapy can be beneficial, as it may help reduce feelings of isolation and foster a sense of community.
Birches Health also offers group therapy sessions as part of its comprehensive treatment programs. These sessions are facilitated by experienced therapists who guide discussions and foster a supportive group dynamic.
Family Counseling
Gambling Addiction often affects not just the individual, but their loved ones as well. Family counseling can help repair relationships, improve communication and build a supportive home environment conducive to recovery.
Birches Health offers family counseling to address these broader impacts, ensuring that the patient's support system is strong and involved in the recovery process.
In-Patient Addiction Centers
In-patient addiction centers provide an immersive treatment environment, removing patients from triggers and providing constant care and supervision. These centers offer comprehensive programs that include therapy, medical care and support groups.
While Birches Health primarily focuses on outpatient care, they can provide referrals to trusted in-patient addiction centers if a more intensive treatment program is necessary.
Is virtual treatment as effective as in-person care?
The effectiveness of virtual treatment compared to in-person care in regards to behavioral addictions is a topic of ongoing research. For many mental and behavioral health issues, including Gambling Addiction, virtual treatment has shown promising results. Studies on virtual cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and other online counseling methods indicate that these treatments can be as effective as their in-person counterparts, particularly when conducted by experienced professionals like those at Birches Health that are specially trained and licensed.
Generally, since the COVID-19 pandemic, teletherapy has risen in popularity due to its convenience and at times more affordable offerings. Studies published in the National Library of Medicine have proven virtual treatment to be just as effective and with more attendance rates than in-person treatment.
Virtual treatment offers several advantages, such as increased accessibility, convenience and the ability to maintain regular sessions even with a busy schedule. However, the choice between virtual and in-person treatment ultimately depends on individual preferences, the severity of the addiction and the specific needs of the patient.
Birches Health leverages the strengths of virtual treatment, providing comprehensive and accessible care tailored to each patient's needs.
