Upcoming Webinar: Insights on the Problem Gambling Helpline

As legalized sports and online gambling expands across the US, helpline professionals are increasingly likely to encounter callers experiencing gambling-related harm. Whether you work in information and referral, community navigation, crisis intervention, or suicide prevention, understanding how to recognize and address problem gambling is now a critical part of the frontline toolkit.

Join us for a practical, insightful webinar focused on empowering helpline staff to support individuals facing gambling challenges, from initial conversation through to connecting them with specialized resources and care.

Date: Thursday, July 31
Time: 2:00pm Eastern

About Our Presenters:

Kaitlin Brown, Senior Director of Programs & Services, Connecticut Council on Problem Gambling
Kaitlin is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Licensed Drug and Alcohol Counselor (LADC), Internationally Certified Gambling Counselor (ICGC II), holds an International Certificate in Gaming Disorder (IGDC), and is Board Approved Clinical Consultant (BACC) with the International Problem Gambling and Gaming Certification Organization (IPGGC). She brings enthusiasm and passion to her work of helping individuals with Gambling Disorder and increasing community awareness.

Valerie Tebbetts, Helpline, Recovery and Training Manager, Connecticut Council on Problem Gambling
Valerie is an Internationally Certified Gambling Recovery Specialist and a Board Approved Recovery Advisor. She has been a Peer Recovery Specialist in CT since 2015, and currently holds the position of Helpline, Recovery and Training Manager for the Connecticut Council on Problem Gambling. She also has experience working in Mental Health, Substance Use Disorder, and HIV/AIDS services. She regularly provides training on recovery resources and recovery modalities to other treatment professionals and has presented at the National Council on Problem Gambling’s (NCPG) convention on “Mindfulness Based Recovery” and “Financial Issues and Problem Gambling.” As the manager of a problem gambling call center in CT, she is an active member of NCPG’s Helpline Modernization forum. She is also the current Co-chair of NCPG’s Treatment Provider Resource Network. Val is a committed advocate for all people experiencing harm from gambling or gaming and dedicated to continuing education and development of her own engagement skills.

What You’ll Learn

This session will spotlight the proven model used by the Connecticut Council on Problem Gambling’s Helpline—offering transferable lessons for helplines everywhere. Here’s what you can expect:

• An overview of problem gambling: Explore the scope of gambling’s impact on individuals, families, and communities, with emphasis on the new risks and emerging demographics linked to online gambling.
• The unique nature of gambling disorder: Learn how gambling issues differ from substance use concerns and why it’s often called the “hidden addiction”—with special attention to the roles of shame, secrecy, and isolation in delaying help-seeking.
• Best practices from the field: Find out how CT’s helpline model engages callers, addresses their emotions and barriers, and connects them with effective treatment and support—whether local, national (via NCPG affiliates), or community-based.
• Helpline specialist qualifications: Gain insights into the training, expertise, and lived experience that help helpline staff build rapport, offer hope, and guide callers toward recovery.
• Real-world challenges and trends: Hear about the successes and hurdles of managing a 24/7 statewide problem gambling helpline, and discover strategies for continuous improvement.

Why This Matters

As front-line responders, each call is a unique opportunity to intervene and change lives. Problem gambling can escalate quickly and often remains hidden until a crisis occurs. By building your understanding and confidence, you’ll be ready to:

• Identify social and individual risks associated with gambling’s rapid expansion.
• Recognize the progression from recreational play to Gambling Disorder, including key risk factors and behavioral warning signs.
• Provide expert, compassionate referrals to NCPG affiliates and local resources.

Empower yourself—and your helpline team—with knowledge and tools that make a difference. Whether you’re seasoned in crisis work or new to the impacts of gambling, this webinar will connect you with practical approaches and a network of supportive peers nationwide.

Don’t miss this chance to strengthen your ability to help those affected by gambling harm. We look forward to learning with you!