OUR GAMBLING ADDICTION TREATMENT PROGRAM

For many, gambling is a form of entertainment. But for some, it becomes a compulsive habit, leading to financial distress, damaged relationships, and emotional struggles. The growing availability of online gambling platforms has further increased the risk of problem gambling. At BIG SKY Treatment in Kalispell, MT, we understand the toll gambling addiction can take on individuals and families. Our comprehensive treatment programs help you break free from compulsive gambling, regain control, and rebuild a healthier, more fulfilling life.

A smiling couple enjoys a hike in a sunny, wooded area, symbolizing the positive outcomes of effective treatment for kratom addiction.
Male playing poker online
A Kratom addiction support group meeting with six people seated in a circle, discussing and offering support.
Gambling on sports online while at work

WHAT IS GAMBLING ADDICTION?

Gambling addiction—also called problem gambling or compulsive gambling—is an impulse control disorder where a person feels an overwhelming urge to gamble, even when it leads to negative consequences. Unlike casual gambling, those struggling with addiction find it difficult to stop, even after significant financial or personal losses. This addiction often follows a cycle of increasing bets, chasing losses, and justifying gambling behaviors, which can take a severe toll on mental health, relationships, and financial well-being.

COMPULSIVE GAMBLING RISKS

Unchecked gambling addiction can have devastating consequences, including:

  • Financial ruin – Debt accumulation, maxed-out credit cards, or even theft to fund gambling.
  • Mental health struggles – Higher risks of depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts.
  • Strained relationships – Broken trust with family and friends due to dishonesty and financial instability.
  • Legal issues – Some individuals resort to fraud or theft to cover gambling debts.
Art therapy session in progress, potentially for substance recovery programs
Male addicted to gambling struggling with his losses

SIGNS & SYMPTOMS OF GAMBLING ADDICTION

Recognizing the warning signs of gambling addiction is the first step toward recovery.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF HEROIN ADDICTION

Understanding the signs and symptoms of heroin addiction is crucial for recognizing the need for professional help.

PHYSICAL

  • Sleep disturbances – Insomnia or exhaustion due to excessive gambling.

  • Headaches and stress-related illnesses – Chronic tension caused by financial and emotional strain.

  • Neglecting personal well-being – Poor hygiene, skipped meals, or lack of exercise.

  • Increased substance use – Turning to alcohol or drugs to cope with gambling-related stress.

PSYCHOLOGICAL

  • Preoccupation with gambling – Constantly thinking about past or future bets.

  • Irritability and mood swings – Feeling anxious, agitated, or restless when unable to gamble.

  • Denial and justification – Making excuses for gambling behaviors or blaming losses on bad luck.

  • Risk-taking behaviors – Increasing bet amounts or making reckless financial decisions.

SOCIAL

  • Withdrawal from loved ones – Avoiding family and friends to hide gambling habits.

  • Lying about gambling – Covering up losses or downplaying gambling activities.

  • Neglecting responsibilities – Missing work, ignoring bills, or skipping commitments.

  • Financial distress – Borrowing money, selling possessions, or struggling to pay bills due to gambling losses.

TAKE THE NEXT STEP TOWARDS YOUR NEW LIFE

If gambling is controlling your life, help is available. BIG SKY Treatment offers confidential, judgment-free support to help you regain control and start healing. Calls are answered 24/7.

TAKE THE NEXT STEP TOWARDS YOUR NEW LIFE

Simply reach out to our admissions team for a free consultation. Everything is private and confidential. We’re here to help, answer questions, and listen. Calls answered 24/7.

OUR GAMBLING ADDICTION TREATMENT PROCESS

At BIG SKY Treatment, we use a personalized, evidence-based approach to help individuals overcome gambling addiction. Our program focuses on identifying the root causes, addressing compulsive behaviors, and developing healthier coping strategies. Through individual and group therapy, clients explore personal triggers and learn how to manage them effectively. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) helps reframe harmful thought patterns, while experiential therapy fosters emotional growth and resilience. Our goal is to provide the tools needed for long-term recovery and a healthier future.

A woman smiles while interacting with a horse during an equine therapy session, highlighting Kratom treatment options
Group therapy session for gambling addiction
Group of young friends posing together during a hike as part of their therapeutic outdoor activity for kratom addiction
Male seeking counseling for gambling addiction

PSYCHOLOGICAL AND BEHAVIORAL TREATMENT

Our treatment approach addresses both the psychological and behavioral aspects of gambling addiction. CBT and Motivational Interviewing (MI) help individuals understand and change destructive gambling habits. Mindfulness and stress management techniques teach healthier ways to cope with urges and emotions. Family therapy helps rebuild trust and strengthen relationships affected by addiction. By treating the whole person, we create a solid foundation for lasting recovery.

AFTERCARE TREATMENT SUPPORT PROGRAMS

Recovery is a lifelong journey, and continued support is essential. At BIG SKY Treatment, we provide ongoing therapy, relapse prevention planning, and peer support groups to help individuals stay on track. Financial counseling assists with rebuilding stability and managing past gambling-related debts. Our alumni program fosters long-term connections, offering encouragement and accountability. With the right support, a gambling-free life is possible.

Smiling people participating at a group therapy session for kratom treatment program
Group adventure therapy in Montana

TREATMENT OPTIONS

At BIG SKY Treatment, we recognize that recovery is different for everyone. That’s why we offer flexible, personalized treatment options:

Joyful man engaging in group discussion during a therapy session

BIG SKY EXPERIENTIAL THERAPY

Healing goes beyond traditional talk therapy. Our experiential therapy program incorporates equine therapy, art therapy, and outdoor activities to promote self-awareness and personal growth.

Participant smiles during collaborative therapy meeting in a nurturing setting

BIG SKY OUTPATIENT TREATMENT

Designed for adults and adolescents, our outpatient program offers daytime, evening, and virtual therapy options to fit your schedule. Our Virtual Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) provides structured support while allowing you to maintain work, school, and family commitments.

Individual attending a virtual counseling session via a digital device for health advice

BIG SKY TELEHEALTH TREATMENT

For those unable to attend in-person sessions, our telehealth program connects individuals with licensed therapists for remote, personalized treatment from the comfort of home.

BUILD A FOUNDATION FOR LASTING CHANGE

At BIG SKY, we offer more than just gambling addiction treatment; we offer a chance at a new beginning. Let us help you lay the groundwork for a life free from the shadows of mental health illness and addiction. Our dedicated team is always here to provide guidance and answer your questions—day or night.

Two women kayaking on a river, smiling and enjoying outdoor activity, illustrating experiential therapy for addiction.
Woman raising her hands in the Montana mountains, free from gambling addiction

FIND GAMBLING ADDICTION TREATMENT AT BIG SKY

If gambling is controlling your life, you don’t have to face it alone.

BIG SKY Treatment offers compassionate, professional support to help you regain control, find healing, and build a stable future.

CHECK YOUR INSURANCE COVERAGE

We work with most insurance providers in the U.S. to provide the best possible coverage and minimize your out-of-pocket expenses.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Browse our FAQ for clear, concise answers to common inquiries about our programs and services.

Yes. Gambling addiction is a recognized behavioral disorder, similar to substance addiction. It affects the brain’s reward system, making it difficult to stop despite negative consequences.

A combination of genetic, psychological, and environmental factors can contribute to gambling addiction. Stress, trauma, and co-occurring mental health conditions can increase vulnerability.

Encourage them to seek professional help, offer emotional support, and avoid enabling gambling behaviors (e.g., lending money). Connecting them with resources like BIG SKY Treatment can be life-changing.

Seeking professional therapy, setting financial safeguards, and joining a support group (such as Gamblers Anonymous) can help break the cycle of compulsive gambling.

Treatment includes therapy, behavioral interventions, financial counseling, and peer support, all aimed at helping individuals regain control and develop healthier habits.

Yes. Many video gaming machines in Montana are located in bars and liquor stores, as you must have a valid liquor license before you can receive a gambling license, which increases the risk of co-occurring gambling and alcohol addiction. Kalispell, for example, has one liquor store for every 10 residents, making access to both gambling and alcohol highly prevalent. Gambling is also found in coffee shops and breweries.

Popular forms of gambling in Montana include:

  • Casinos and video gaming machines
  • Lottery games and scratch tickets
  • Sports betting and online gambling

Keno, where machines were legalized in 1976

Yes. Montana offers support through organizations such as:

QuitGamble.com – Montana Resources

FINALLY BREAK FREE FROM MENTAL HEALTH ILLNESS AND ADDICTION

At BIG SKY Treatment, we are committed to helping you recover, heal, and move forward. Our evidence-based programs provide the guidance and support you need to break free from addiction and build a healthier, more fulfilling life. Calls are answered 24/7.

FINALLY BREAK FREE FROM MENTAL HEALTH ILLNESS AND ADDICTION

Let BIG SKY help you recover, grow, and thrive with proven evidence-based treatment programs that
empower you to break through mental health and addiction challenges. Calls answered 24/7.