Is Virtual Gambling Addiction Treatment as Effective?

Gambling addiction is a growing concern, but thanks to advancements in technology, the landscape of addiction treatment has evolved significantly, most notably with the introduction of virtual care options. Telehealth platforms offer new avenues for treating behavioral addictions like Gambling Disorder and have become increasingly popular. 

The question remains: is virtual gambling addiction treatment as effective as traditional in-person care? This article explores the nature of virtual treatment, the effectiveness of its modality, its advantages over traditional in-person approaches and the pivotal role it plays in contemporary healthcare.

What is virtual treatment for Gambling Addiction?

Virtual telehealth treatment for Gambling Addiction leverages digital platforms such as video conferencing, online chat and digital phone calls to provide therapeutic interventions, counseling and overall care. This type of treatment enables individuals to receive support from licensed professionals specializing in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), various forms of counseling and tailored support groups aimed at tackling Problem Gambling.

The process here at Birches Health typically begins with an initial assessment to gauge individual needs, followed by the formulation of a personalized treatment plan. Regular therapy sessions are conducted securely through video platforms, ensuring confidentiality and privacy. Virtual support groups can also foster community and shared experiences through online forums or video calls. This approach enhances accessibility and flexibility, making it an option to consider for addressing Gambling Addiction effectively from any location.

Virtual treatment vs. in-person care: Which is more effective for treating Problem Gambling? 

The effectiveness of virtual telehealth treatment compared to in-person care for problem gambling is a topic of ongoing research. Both approaches have their unique advantages and potential drawbacks, and the best choice often depends on the individual's specific needs and circumstances.

Still, from the research that has been conducted, there has been no drop-off in the quality of care facilitated by virtual telehealth resources compared to in-person care when it comes to Problem Gambling. In fact, many patients have preferred telehealth before, during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, one study testing the efficacy of an internet-based psychological intervention for problem gambling and gambling disorder, found that telehealth scored high in patient satisfaction ratings, thanks to increased treatment access and convenience. By and large, the study found that telehealth treatments for addictions resulted in comparable findings and effectiveness to in-person treatment.

In a post-COVID-19 world, studies from the National Library of Medicine have found telehealth to be universally recommended as a good option for treatment, so long as proper training and staffing are the standard. One study, published in iGB North America, notes that traditional, in-person Gambling Addiction treatment may suffer from rigid structure and fragmentation in marginalized populations. This study goes on to highlight telehealth’s ability to integrate app-based tools to enhance treatment while increasing feasibility and efficiency in the access of care without a decline in effectiveness from these services. 

One case study from the NIH in particular, exploring the potential acceptability and effectiveness of a novel telehealth treatment for people experiencing gambling harm, found the flexibility of an online treatment program to improve engagement with others who have barriers to accessing evidence-based treatments in person. Decreasing barriers to care is where we lead off on our list of virtual telehealth benefits below. 

Benefits of virtual telehealth care for Problem Gambling

The shift towards digital telehealth care for Gambling Addiction offers several distinct advantages:

• Overcoming Geographical, Social & Logistical Barriers

Telehealth services have revolutionized addiction recovery by eliminating typical barriers that include shame, embarrassment, stigma; unwillingness to admit a problem; geographic factors such as rural and remote location; logistics of transport and timing and social anxiety about attending a group session. Individuals struggling with addiction often face difficulties in finding specialized facilities or traveling long distances for treatment. Telehealth mitigates these issues by allowing individuals to connect with healthcare professionals, counselors and support groups from the comfort of their own homes.

• Anytime, Anywhere Access

Offering support 24/7 from any location, telehealth is invaluable for addiction recovery. Immediate access to help can reduce the risk of relapse during unpredictable crises.

• Personalized Care

Telehealth allows for tailored treatment plans through remote assessments, one-on-one therapy sessions and ongoing progress monitoring. This individualized approach addresses the unique needs of each person for effective recovery.

• Family and Community Involvement

Telehealth facilitates family and community involvement through virtual therapy sessions and support groups, fostering a supportive environment beneficial for sustained recovery.

• A Transformative Approach

Telehealth is revolutionizing addiction recovery by breaking down barriers, offering constant accessibility and providing personalized care. 

Virtual treatment resources for Gambling Addiction 

Telehealth resources like those offered by Birches Health exemplify the comprehensive integration of digital services for Gambling Addiction treatment. Birches’ offerings include virtual therapy sessions, online support groups and free access to educational resources. These resources are designed to provide proactive education, immediate support and long-term treatment plans tailored to individual needs.

Birches Health puts all the positive aspects of telehealth into practice, starting with the understanding that Gambling Addiction is complex, so each patient deserves their own individual form of care. Birches therapists take the time to get to know you so they can put forth a well-rounded effort. With insurance-covered care and $0 out-of-pocket costs for many patients, Birches’ dedicated team can be a critical resource for you or a loved one today. 

There are many options for taking the first step to recovery with Birches Health today:

• Book an Appointment 

• Speak with a Care Specialist 

• Refer a Friend 

• Take a Free Self-Assessment

How does the Gambling Addiction virtual treatment process work?

The virtual care journey usually begins with an initial assessment to understand the severity of the Gambling Addiction. This can be conducted through a self-assessment questionnaire, video call or phone call. The information gathered helps the clinician create a treatment plan tailored specifically to the individual's needs. Next, regular therapy sessions are conducted with a licensed therapist using evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). These sessions take place via secure video conferencing platforms to ensure privacy and confidentiality. 

Participation in virtual support groups can also be a component of the treatment process. These groups provide a space for individuals to share experiences and receive peer support, fostering a sense of community and mutual understanding. Patients also have access to a wealth of online educational materials. These resources are designed to help individuals understand their addiction better and develop effective coping strategies.

Once well into treatment, regular check-ins and assessments ensure the treatment plan remains effective and responsive to the individual's evolving needs. Ongoing aftercare is crucial to prevent relapse. Custom aftercare plans provide regular support and self-monitoring techniques to help individuals avoid potential triggers and maintain their recovery.

Sources:

National Library of Medicine

The Council on Recovery

iGB North America

ScienceDirect

Springer Link