Evaluation of a telecounselling program for problem gamblers
Excessive gambling can lead to serious consequences for gamblers. Telecounseling represents a new form of intervention for problem gamblers that has a limited number of scientific assessments. This study retrospectively evaluates a telecounseling program for problem gamblers. The program, with data compiled from records of 84 gamblers, has been analyzed with respect to (1) its consistency with the cognitive-behavioral program of Ladouceur et al. (2000) from which it is based, (2) the integrity of its administration, (3) its effect on motivation to change, and (4) gamblers’ satisfaction. The results reveal that 47.3% of the telecounseling’s components are inspired of the cognitive-behavioral treatment for problem gambling. The program integrity analysis reveals that 24.3% of completers received all the elements considered essential to reach the objectives of the program. Gamblers’ feeling that their gambling problem is resolved or under control increases significantly after the program, while no significant effect was observed on the urges to gamble. Gamblers also show a high level of satisfaction with the program. These results indicate that telecounseling seems to be worthy of further investigation. Future telecounseling programs should plan for a methodical evaluation of the intervention to ensure their effectiveness.