Millions in ‘Sin Taxes’ Flowing into Minnesota’s coffers during COVID-19 Pandemic
By Susan Sheridan Tucker, NPGA Executive Director (as published in the Friday’s edition, Nov 27th, of the Star Tribune I cringe when I see “sin taxes” associated with gambling. I understand the intent. Too often we view excessive gambling as a...
Stress from COVID Restrictions Can Lead to Problem Gambling
COVID-19 has upended our lives, causing disruption to virtually everyone. However, as the pandemic continues, its impact on those with mental health challenges is especially significant. The requirement to maintain social distancing has led to...
In Their Own Words – Tim’s Story
I had my first big win of $500 as a 7-year old at a church picnic in a small town in Minnesota. I was like a celebrity for a while after that. I chased that feeling for 34 years, becoming very competitive in sports, games, spelling bees and just...
NCPG Conference Roundup
I (virtually) attended the annual conference of the National Council on Problem Gambling in July. Here is a recap of some of the presentations. Industry Trends The conference featured a considerable focus on responsible gambling, particularly in...
Minnesota Gambling Control Board Plays Critical Role in State Gambling
The Minnesota Gambling Control Board plays a critical role in regulating gambling activity in Minnesota. Northern Light conducted the following Q&A with Matt Gettman, the agency’s executive director. Q: What is the primary role of the Minnesota...
Recovering Problem Gambler Leads Way Through Recovery
Jess Stewart’s desire to become an advocate for problem gamblers was born while he was at Project Turnabout for residential gambling treatment in 2016. Four years later, he’s proven to be a highly motivated, steadfast voice for those afflicted with...
COVID Mental Health Trends from EAP (Employee Assistance Program) Callers
The following are some trends that have emerged from people calling in to employee assistance programs. Loneliness is causing increased mental health issues. This seems to be an underlying theme if clients are far from their support systems or...
Canterbury Park Reopens with Hope and Caution
After shutting down for nearly three months, the Canterbury Park Card Casino opened in mid-June — with equal amounts of caution and hope. “We’re as well prepared as we can be,” says Michael Hochman, Vice President of Casino Operations at Canterbury...
The Problem Gambling Landscape in Wisconsin
Northern Light sat down (virtually) with Rose Blozinski, executive director at the Wisconsin Council on Problem Gambling, to gain some insights about the problem gambling landscape of our eastern neighbor. Here are some highlights of that...
A Review of Sports Wagering & Gambling Addiction Studies — Executive Summary
The following is taken from the National Council on Problem Gambling: This report on recent research suggests that gambling problems may increase as sports gambling grows explosively at the same time that mobile and online technologies evolve to...
In Their Own Words — Cal’s Story
My nearly 50-year relationship with gambling started when I was six years old. My father, an illegal sports bettor, introduced me to gambling and would take me to sporting events everywhere he placed bets. I remember that he would split his...
Holiday Season Reminder: Lottery Tickets Are Not Appropriate Gifts for Minors
(ROSEVILLE, MN (December 3, 2019) -The Minnesota Lottery and the Northstar Problem Gambling Alliance (NPGA) announced today they are participating in an international responsible gambling campaign to raise awareness about the risks of underage...
Internet Responsible Gambling Standards
Gambling may have benefits but also has well documented negative consequences. Internet gambling is no exception. It is clear that some who gamble online will develop problems and that these problems are serious. The most ethical and cost-effective...
Loot Boxes: What Are They and What Safeguards are Needed?
A feature that has become part of the majority of popular video games threatens to become a gateway to problem gambling according to many experts in the field. Loot boxes are consumable virtual items in video games that can be redeemed to receive a...
Study of Problem Gambling in MN’s Laotian Community
Though there was already a sense that gambling addiction is an issue in Minnesota’s Lao community, new research sponsored by Northstar Problem Gambling Alliance (NPGA) has discovered that findings from a community sample suggest elevated problem...
Study of problem gambling in MN’s Laotian community suggests the need for fresh treatment approaches
MinnPost 10.14.19 Lao Survey
“Positive Play” Messaging Emerges as Effective Approach in Gambling Education and Helplines
Traditionally, the approach to educating people about problem gambling has been a punitive one — i.e., if you don’t play responsibly you will experience problems. But new insights into the gambling education process, including those shared at the...
Minnesota Mulls Bills to Legalize Sports Betting
Two bills to legalize sports betting in Minnesota were introduced this year. The status and nature of each bill is detailed below. It doesn’t appear that Minnesota will pass either of these bills this session. Bill: SF1984 Description: The bill...
Northstar Finalizes Strategic Plan
Northstar’s new strategic plan was approved by the board of directors in April. The final plan details six major organizational goals and 19 key strategies. The full strategic plan can be viewed here. Goals The goals identified in the process look...
Free Online Tool Blocks Access To Gambling Sites For Those In Recovery
Individuals recovering from a gambling addiction now have an option should they decide to restrict themselves from participating in online gambling. BetBlocker.org, is a free online tool that users can install to stop themselves from accessing...
2019 Problem Gambling Awareness Month in Review
Northstar once again actively participated in this year’s national Problem Gambling Awareness Month activities in March. Northstar’s efforts focused primarily on social media, and included a campaign that targeted treatment providers, the general...
Groundbreaking NGAGE Survey on Gambling Sheds Light on Behaviors and Attitudes
Gambling Behavior of Minnesotans Similar to the Nation At Large In March, the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) released initial findings from the first comprehensive survey of gambling attitudes and behaviors. Northern Light talked with...
Northstar to Participate in “Future of Gaming” Conference
Northstar executive director Susan Sheridan Tucker will be one of 35 speakers participating in the summer meeting of the National Council of Legislators from Gaming States (NCLGS). The meeting will focus on critical issues that elected officials...
A Gambling Addict Discovers Relationship Between Drinking and Gambling
Joe’s Story I’m that rare person whose “clean date” for drinking is the same as my clean date for gambling. The funny thing was that I never really thought that one had much to do with the other. But once I started treatment for gambling...
Northstar Alliance Recognizes Problem Gambling Awareness Month
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEContact:Susan Sheridan Tucker – Executive Director1935 West County Road B-2Roseville, MN 55113612-424-8595 Office612-321-1589 Cellsst@northstarproblemgambling.org Roseville, MN (March 1,...
Attorneys at Increased Risk for Gambling Addiction
At first blush, the idea that a lawyer could develop a gambling problem might seem far-fetched. After all, the highly esteemed, socially acceptable profession is associated with high achievement and prestige. Yet, upon closer examination, there are...
New Online Treatment Program Offers Help For Hard-To-Reach Problem Gamblers
Historically, there are many reasons why problem gamblers don’t always get the help they need. Some of these challenges include access to counselors, dealing with the burden of stigma and shame, concerns about privacy, and uncertainty about whether...
A Call for Evidence-Based Practices
Happy New Year! As is tradition, this is a time to take stock. It’s a time to engage in conversations about making changes that, while desired, can be difficult to execute. I’d like to start a conversation with our stakeholders regarding the...
Financial Counseling and Education Critical to Recovery
After finishing the first stages of treatment for gambling addiction, a problem gambler may have a better understanding of the disease, the circumstances that trigger undesirable gambling behavior, and the importance of taking things one day at a...
Helpful Tips for Problem Gamblers and Families on the Day of the Big Game
For those who struggle with a gambling addiction, the day of the Big Game can be especially problematic, bringing back memories and urges to gamble. We suggest the following tips to help problem gamblers and their families get past this Sunday....
State Opens RFP for Problem Gambling Treatment Providers
Are you interested in becoming a Minnesota certified problem gambling treatment provider? If so, the deadline to apply is Feb. 28, 2019. For more information, click here. Providers who are not familiar with the Minnesota Department of Human...
Minnesota Lottery and Northstar Problem Gambling Alliance Participate in National Holiday Responsible Gambling Campaign
Contact: Susan Sheridan Tucker Phone: (612) 424-8595 Email: sst@northstarproblemgambling.org FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Minnesota Lottery and Northstar Problem Gambling Alliance Participate in National Holiday...
Remembering Cathie Perrault
It is with great sadness that we inform you that Cathie Perrault, former executive director at Northstar who retired in August, unexpectedly passed away on Oct. 28 from a stroke she suffered the day before. A memorial ceremony will take place at...
Celebrating the Past, Anticipating the Future
Northstar’s transition from former executive director Cathie Perrault to new executive director Susan Sheridan Tucker provides a good opportunity to look back on what’s been accomplished over the last decade—and to look forward to what can be...
Venthouse Counseling
If you are ready to improve your life, then I am the one to lead you there. Having years of experience as both a client and a clinician, I am very familiar with the process of change and I am well equipped to make it happen. I've helped guide...
Charting An Updated Strategic Path
With about eight weeks under my belt at NPGA, I’ve been taking time to better understand the ins and outs of the organization. I’ve been meeting with our board members and other key stakeholders to inquire about and listen to organizational...
Northstar to Create New Strategic Plan
With an eye toward strengthening the alliance that forms the organization’s foundation, Northstar is working to engage in a new strategic planning process that will be underway later this fall. “I think this is a good time to revisit what we’re all...
The Role of Meditation and Mindfulness in Gambling Recovery
As most gambling counselors and therapists will attest, there’s no single treatment that works across the board for all clients. However, meditation and other mindfulness-based therapies, which have increased in popularity, are showing promise in...
Charitable Gambling Venues Debut Sports-Themed Tip Boards
Sports-themed tip boards, gambling games that are tied to the scores and outcomes of professional sports, are now available in Minnesota through licensed charities. Use of these games was approved by Minnesota’s Gambling Control Board in July...
Osseo Lions Club Helps To Combat Gambling Addiction With Donation To Northstar Problem Gambling
The Osseo Lions Club, which works to enrich and improve the lives of citizens in the community, has made a multi-year contribution to the Northstar Problem Gambling Alliance. The continued support demonstrates the organization’s commitment to...
Q&A With Susan Tucker, Northstar’s New Executive Director
Susan Tucker joined Northstar as new executive director on Aug. 1. We talked with Susan about her early impressions of Northstar. What excites you about taking over at Northstar? I don’t see myself as taking over Northstar as much as to help guide...
What About the Family?
The families and “affected others” of problem gamblers are all too often forgotten in the stress and chaos that’s created by someone with a gambling addiction. Yet, in many ways, the need for help among those in the midst of a problem gambler is...
What Does the Supreme Court Ruling Mean for Sports Gambling in Minnesota?
The impact of the Supreme Court’s landmark decision on Minnesota, as with many other states, remains to be seen. There is considerable uncertainty about what will happen, and when. We talked to a number of state gambling experts about their...
What Is “Box Breaking?”
Whether officially considered to be gambling or not, there are a number of recreational activities that can produce addictive behavior. We wrote about some of these activities in the Winter/Spring 2017 issue of Northern Light. One activity, in...
Mike Downey — 2018 Outstanding Service Award Recipient
As with so many, Mike Downey’s initial exposure to problem gambling came unexpectedly. The year was 1989 and Mike was working as a probation officer in Alexandria, Minnesota. “I knew nothing about problem gambling until I worked with a first-time...
Problem Gambling Training In Western Wisconsin — June 10-14
The National Rural Institute on Alcohol and Drug Abuse is offering a 15-hour training on treatment for problem gambling at the Institute’s conference June 11-15 at University of Wisconsin–Stout in Menomonie. The training is co-sponsored by the...
Community Forum and Problem Gambling Advisory Committee Meeting – May 10
The next meeting of Minnesota’s Gambling Advisory Council takes place on May 10 at the University of Minnesota Children’s Hospital (south building) at 2450 Riverside Avenue. The community forum portion of the meeting is open to anyone interested in...
Early Study Results Suggest Gambling Problems Are Significant in Minnesota’s Lao Community
To date, there have been few in-depth studies of the gambling behavior of Southeast Asian refugee communities. While there have been informal community listening sessions in the Twin Cities at which gambling was discussed, there’s not been a...
Early Study Results Suggest Gambling Problems Are Significant in Minnesota’s Lao Community
To date, there have been few in-depth studies of the gambling behavior of Southeast Asian refugee communities. While there have been informal community listening sessions in the Twin Cities at which gambling was discussed, there’s not been a...
Northstar Recognizes Problem Gambling Awareness Month in Minnesota with Conference and Awareness Campaign
Northstar Problem Gambling Alliance will again lead the way in providing education and awareness activities as part of Problem Gambling Awareness Month (PGAM), an annual grassroots effort promoted by the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG)...
Accelerated Resolution Therapy “Gives Life Back” to Recovering Gambler
“Kathy” had been doing well in her recovery from gambling addiction, having abstained for a dozen years with only occasional fleeting thoughts about gambling. But when a workplace assault created new trauma and awakened old feelings from previous...
It’s Time to Talk Again: A Way to Approach Seniors About Gambling
Talking to someone about a problem behavior is never easy. This is especially true when bringing up the topic of problem gambling to older adults. Often, the responsibility of monitoring a senior’s gambling behavior falls to older children and...
Gambling Addiction and the Military
Problem gambling and gambling addiction is an equal opportunity employer, affecting all segments of the population, regardless of age, sex, religion or socio-economic background. However, there are certain groups that appear to be more at risk for...
Minnesota Gains National Recognition for Efforts to Combat Problem Gambling
The Minnesota Department of Human Services earned two national awards for its efforts to combat problem gambling at the 31st annual conference of the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) in July. NCPG recognized Minnesota’s programs to reach...
Provider Profile: Progressive Individual Resources, Inc.
Raising awareness about the issue of problem gambling and getting treatment to those in need is a significant challenge. However, it’s particularly difficult when trying to reach immigrant communities whose cultures and circumstances are different...
Don Feeney Receives Lifetime Achievement Award From NCPG
Don Feeney, former research and planning director at the Minnesota State Lottery and a board member of Northstar and the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG), received the prestigious Monsignor Joseph Dunne Lifetime Award for Advocacy at the...
Gambling Among Today’s and Tomorrow’s Seniors
The changing gambling beliefs and behaviors of Minnesota seniors figure to play a significant role in the potential increase in compulsive gambling for this growing segment of the population. Surveys of Minnesotans’ gambling behavior, conducted...
Consumer Protection Guidelines Included in Draft to Repeal Federal Ban On Sports Betting
In May, the U.S. Congress unveiled The Gaming Accountability and Modernization Act (GAME), a draft of legislation seeking to lift the federal ban on sports betting. The GAME Act aims to remove federal barriers, outline consumer protection and allow...
Gambling Is Increasingly Popular Among Older Adults
Seniors are one of the fastest-growing groups of gamblers. One study found that gambling was the most frequently identified social activity among adults over 65, with casinos and bingo surpassing movies, lunch, shopping and golf as preferred social...
Deb Mundinger Joins Northstar Board
As a recovering gambler, Deb Mundinger, Northstar’s newest board member, brings a personal voice of recovery to Northstar. “I’m familiar with the various aspects of gambling treatment and am interested to see how those pieces can work together to...
Similarities Between Alcohol, Drug and Gambling Addiction Can Present Problems for Those in Recovery
“John” was doing well in his recovery from alcohol addiction. He hadn’t had a drink in eight months, was regularly attending AA and individual counseling, and was well supported in his recovery by family and friends. Several of John’s college...
Other Forms of Recreation Can Bring Out Gambling Addiction-Like Behavior
When most people think of gambling activities that can cause addiction, they typically envision casino games, lotteries, betting on horses or professional sports, or even Bingo. However, other recreational activities that are not technically...
Accelerated Resolution Therapy May Help Those with Gambling Disorder
Among the variety of therapies counselors can choose from to help their clients address gambling addiction, one that’s received relatively little attention is known as accelerated resolution therapy (ART). While ART, deemed an evidence-based...
Provider Profile: Club Recovery
Club Recovery is a Minneapolis-based outpatient addiction treatment center specializing in alcohol and drug abuse and compulsive gambling. The center began operations in 1998 and has been providing treatment for gambling addiction since 2000. The...
Financial Counselors Can Provide Valuable Services to Gamblers and Their Families
In addition to the social and emotional devastation of gambling addiction, which may include loss of relationships, residence, physical health and career opportunities, the damage exacted to one’s finances is significant. While therapists and...
Provider Profile: Fairview Behavioral Health Services
The problem gambling program at Fairview Recovery Services is an intensive outpatient program that encompasses group therapy with a family component for concerned others. Fairview’s program is one of Minnesota’s oldest and most comprehensive...
The Challenge: How to Reach College Gamblers
College students, like the rest of the population, are not immune to problem gambling. In fact, approximately 6 percent of U.S. college students have a serious gambling problem according to the National Council on Problem Gambling. Therefore, it...
Campaign to Bring Additional Attention to Problem Gambling in Northern Minnesota Continues
Northstar’s “Northern Exposure” campaign, an effort to focus more attention on problem gambling in Northern Minnesota, is continuing to move forward. The latest phase is to generate public awareness about problem gambling through a media and...
Fantasy Sports Industry Unsuccessful In Obtaining Legal Status During 2016 Legislative Session
The daily fantasy sports industry sought to gain legalization in Minnesota through a bill that would have also created consumer protections. The bill passed in the House but was ultimately not heard by the Senate. The debate in Minnesota reflected...
Provider Profile: Lyndsie Murphy
For Lyndsie Murphy, MA, LPCC, MNCGC, working with compulsive gamblers and their families is most rewarding. “It’s very satisfying to hear family members say, ‘What have you done to my loved one?’ after they see the person apart from their...
NCPG Provides Guide for Casinos to Adopt Responsible Gaming Training Programs
As more and more people enjoy gaming in casinos and other gaming venues, the need for responsible gaming programs to provide information, education and gambling addiction prevention messages is crucial. To help focus more attention on these...
Scholarship Recipient Shares Thoughts on National Conference on Problem Gambling
Jack Rivall, who is earning his license as a drug and alcohol counselor, received a scholarship from Northstar to attend the annual conference of the National Council on Problem Gambling in Tarrytown, NY, on July 14-15. Jack shared his thoughts...
State Seeks Additional Gambling Counselors, Offers Discount For Certification Training
The state of Minnesota continues to have a need for gambling counselors. In fact, there are fewer state-certified gambling counselors than there were five years ago. To become a gambling counselor in Minnesota, one must be a licensed alcohol and...
State Considers Offering Problem Gambling Telecounseling to Veterans in Rural Minnesota
Telecounseling, the provision of psychological services provided via phone or video conference, may be an ideal solution for veterans in greater Minnesota who are problem gamblers and don’t have convenient access to help for their disorders. The...
Sports Fantasy Links
Fantasy sports are taking center stage this fall, particularly with the pervasive presence of DraftKings and FanDuel. We’ve amassed some articles on this increasingly popular and controversial topic: Commentary by Northstar regarding the risk of...
NPGA Outreach Hits Full Gear This Fall
Fall is a busy time for NPGA. In an effort to share as many stories and information as possible about how problem gambling is affecting Minnesotans, we participate in professional conferences and community events far and wide. We talk about what...
Northstar To Host Webcast Training On SBIRT – June 25
Northstar will be hosting a free live webcast on Screening, Brief Intervention and Referral to Treatment (SBIRT). The training will cover screening for gambling problems, motivational prelude to engagement and participation in behavior change...
Northstar Announces Two Full Scholarships for Gambling Counselors in Northern Minnesota
Northstar Problem Gambling Alliance has announced it will offer two full scholarships for professionals interested in becoming problem gambling counselors. The scholarships will pay the full cost for the online training course offered by the...
State Gambling Providers – A Complete List
The state of Minnesota has an approved list of licensed and qualified gambling treatment providers in addition to those featured above. A list of all Minnesota gambling treatment providers can be found on the state's problem gambling website here.
Gambling Rates Higher Among “Out-of-Mainstream” Youth
A new report performed by Randy Stinchfield, Ph.D., gambling researcher at the University of Minnesota Department of Psychiatry, reveals that gambling participation among “out-of-mainstream” youth in Minnesota is higher than for students in public...
Changes to the Northstar Board
There have been a number of changes to the Northstar board over the past months. We are pleased to introduce three new members. John Rundquist John is now president of the Northstar board. He first joined the board in July 2011. John is the...
Counselor’s Corner – Probing Client Behavior for Gambling
Counselor’s Corner is a recurring feature that discusses common questions raised by counselors seeking to learn more about problem gambling and how they can identify a possible gambling addiction in their clients. Lana Nelson, psychotherapist at...
New Videos Educate Lottery Staff and Retailers About Problem Gamblers
Among those affected by problem gamblers and in a position to offer help and assistance, lottery staff and lottery retailers are often overlooked. However, thanks to new training videos produced jointly by lotteries across North America, more...
John VonEschen Joins Northstar’s Speaker’s Network
One of Northstar’s primary goals is to provide problem gambling awareness training and education throughout Minnesota. One way it achieves this mission is through a speaker’s network that provides community presentations on the topic of problem...
How Addictive is Online Gambling?
A recent article appearing in The Atlantic shed light on the comparative addictive qualities of gambling in casinos vs. an online/digital environment. The article suggests that the physical design of casinos may be more enticing to gamblers than...
Northstar Executive Director Elected to NCPG Board of Directors
Cathie Perrault, Northstar’s executive director, was elected to serve a three-year term on the National Council of Problem Gambling Board of Directors at the recent national conference held in Orlando. Cathie has been Northstar’s executive director...
Randy Stinchfield Brings Gambling Research Knowledge to Northstar
After Minnesota legalized a state lottery in 1989, many questions were raised about gambling: How many Minnesotans gambled? How many Minnesotans had a gambling disorder? And how would these numbers be affected by the introduction of the state...
Counselor’s Corner – Problem Gambling Screening Tools
Counselor’s Corner is a recurring feature that discusses common questions raised by counselors seeking to learn more about problem gambling and how they can identify a possible gambling addiction in their clients. John Rundquist, gambling counselor...
Creating Awareness: Russell Herder Brings Problem Gambling Messaging to the Masses
One of the biggest challenges in addressing problem gambling in Minnesota is creating awareness about the issue. There are still many people who do not know that problem gambling exists, that it can be prevented and that it can be treated. While...
March 2014 is Problem Gambling Awareness Month
National Problem Gambling Awareness Month (NPGAM), sponsored by the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG), is a time of national focus on the problem of addictive gambling. Previously, the campaign was held over a one-week time period during...
Participants Sought for Gambling Study
David Velleman, a doctoral student in clinical psychology at The Wright Institute in Berkeley, California, is seeking to recruit gamblers for participation in a survey. The project takes the form of an anonymous online survey. The goal of his...
Peer Support Specialists Provide Example of Recovery to Compulsive Gamblers
There is great power in learning from someone who has “been there before.” People with similar experiences may be able to listen and provide hope and guidance in a way that is uniquely received. So-called “mental health peer support” has existed...
Northstar Leads Minnesota Gambling Summit
Stakeholders from a variety of Minnesota problem gambling interests met for the first Minnesota Problem Gambling Summit on Dec. 13 at the Earle Brown Heritage Center. The goal of the summit was to create a unified strategic approach to the issue of...
Provider Spotlight: Paula Detjen, MA, LMFT, LPC
In retrospect, Paula Detjen’s career destiny was set out before her at an early age. It just took a while to embrace it. Paula grew up as a child of a compulsive gambler and has vivid recollections. “I remember we’d take trips from our home in Los...
Suicide Statistics for Compulsive Gamblers
Statistics depict the high risk of suicide for compulsive gamblers. Here are some interesting facts assembled by Michael Goldman that were presented at the 2013 Minnesota Conference on Problem Gambling in September: According to the World Health...
Addressing Suicide Risk Among Compulsive Gamblers
Sadly, the media is replete with stories of compulsive gamblers who have taken their own lives. Suicide is a very real and all too common consequence of problem gambling. No other addiction has as high a suicide rate as gambling. The National...
Top Ten Reasons That People Drop Out Of The Gamblers Anonymous Program
Studies show that attending self-help support groups, such as Gamblers Anonymous (GA), plays a significant role in recovery from addiction. The longer that problem gamblers remain in such programs, the more likely they are to achieve lasting...
Mary Magnuson Brings Passion and Wealth of Gaming Knowledge to Northstar
More than a decade ago Lance Holthusen, one of the founding fathers of the Northstar Problem Gambling Alliance, asked an attorney with experience at the forefront of the state’s gaming regulation efforts to help further the cause of problem...
An Uncertain Outcome: The Effect of Technology on Problem Gambling
It’s always a pleasure when Keith Whyte, executive director of the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) in Washington, comes to Minnesota to share his knowledge. In September, Keith spoke at our annual conference about an issue of increasing...
Q&A With Nick Puente, Supervisor Minnesota Compulsive Gambling Services
Q&A With Nick Vega Puente Supervisor, Prevention/Compulsive Gambling Services Department of Human Services Q: Do you have specific goals to address the issue of problem gambling in Minnesota? A: In 2012, the Department of Human Services Adult...
The Rise and Fall of the Sports Gambler
The only time my 74-year-old father swears is when his Vikings make a bad play or the referee makes a “bonehead” call. Many of us, like my father, get animated when our favorite sports team plays. We feel connected to our team, and feel their wins...
State’s Problem Gambling Helpline Can Be a Lifeline
At the pivotal moment when a problem gambler reaches out for help, it’s essential that their inquiry be handled with compassion, support and professional guidance. That cry for help often starts with a call to the Minnesota Problem Gambling...
Provider Profile: Paul Mladnick
Paul Mladnick, LADC, NCGC, LMFT, has worked in the counseling field for more than 25 years. His work has focused primarily on addiction, including alcohol and drug abuse as well as compulsive gambling. Paul is the supervisor for Hazelden’s family...
The Work Continues
The conclusion of our fiscal year on June 30 presents an opportunity to reflect on the work we’ve accomplished over the last 12 months. As always, when I look back at the flurry of activity, I’m reminded just how much effort it takes to get the...
It’s Official: DSM-V Changes Classification for Problem Gambling
After years of discussion, research, speculation and debate, the newly revised 5th edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM-V) of the American Psychiatric Association has changed the way problem gambling is classified. The DSM is the...
Michael Hochman Brings Fresh Perspective to Northstar Board
Michael Hochman, Senior Director of Casino Operations at Canterbury Park, provides a perspective to the Northstar board that’s long been missing. As a 25-year veteran of the gaming industry, Michael brings valuable insights into efforts to reduce...
Northstar Brings Problem Gambling Awareness to Augsburg College
The perception that all college students spend their spring breaks sprawled out on the beaches of Florida is, well, not always true. Some, including those from Augsburg College’s EPIC (Educating Peers on Issues and Choices) group, used the...
New Minnesota Problem Gambling Crisis Website
The new Minnesota Problem Gambling crisis microsite is now live at www.getgamblinghelp.com! This site was developed specifically to serve those in immediate need of assistance, either for themselves or someone they know. A little over half of...
Three Community Organizations to Conduct Special Events During Awareness Week from Northstar Grants
Thanks to grants from the Northstar Problem Gambling Alliance, three community organizations will be conducting gambling awareness efforts during National Problem Gambling Awareness Week. These organizations include: 1) Acres for Life, Center for...
Sports Betting: Every Day’s a Super Bowl
Sports betting has been around for a long time in the United States. The country’s founding fathers were risk takers by nature, and colonists from England brought with them a gambling history that went back generations. Early sports betting took...
Marcie Carper: The “Gambling Lady” of Central Minnesota
In the hinterlands of Minnesota where Charles Lindbergh spent much of his childhood, there’s a spunky 78-year-old woman who’s affectionately known as “the gambling lady.” It’s a label that Little Falls’ Marcie Carper is more than happy to be...
Real Voices: The Wife of a Problem Gambler Details Its Damaging Impact
The effects of someone's gambling can extend to well beyond just the gambler. They can affect a partner, child, parent or friend. This is the account of a Minnesotan whose husband was a problem gambler. The idea of addictive gambling is something...
Minnesota’s Sandi Brustuen Wins Prestigious Award from National Council on Problem Gambling
Sandi Brustuen may not be Neil Armstrong or Charles Lindbergh but she’s a pioneer in her own right. Sandi, who received the Dr. Robert Custer Lifetime Award for Direct Service from the National Council of Problem Gambling (NCPG) in July, has spent...
State Bringing Comprehensive, Team Approach to Problem Gambling Awareness and Treatment
Historically, Minnesota’s focus on problem gambling has not taken into consideration how it may fit within the context of other addictions and mental illnesses. However, Minnesota’s Department of Human Services (DHS), the agency that provides...
Northstar Reaches Out to Lawyers to Spread Problem Gambling Awareness
Perhaps the biggest challenge facing those in the problem gambling field is creating awareness about the addiction. One of the more productive ways to increase understanding of gambling addiction – and ultimately to provide help to those who need...
Fairview Compulsive Gambling Program
The Fairview Compulsive Gambling Program is one of the oldest and most comprehensive gambling programs in Minnesota, dating back to the early 1990s. It consists of group therapy, individual counseling and group therapy for families and other...
Introducing Minnesota’s New Problem Gambling Helpline Vendor
In late August the Minnesota problem gambling helpline contract from the state was awarded to the Invitation Health Institute (IHI). Call center operations will now be handled by Canvas Health/Crisis Connection out of Richfield. IHI (formerly the...
Northstar Is Active in the Community
The Northstar Problem Gambling Alliance invests significant resources in community and professional outreach activities to help educate the community and professionals on problem gambling issues. We will be particularly busy this fall at...
Fairview Compulsive Gambling Program
Fairview’s Compulsive Gambling Program includes two phases of primary treatment. Phase I lasts for 24 sessions and Phase II lasts for 20 sessions. The team of qualified professionals includes primary and family counselors specially trained to help...
Sound Mind – Therapy and Consultation
Pat Pardun, MS, is a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed alcohol and drug counselor (LADC) and state-certified Minnesota gambling treatment provider located in Stillwater, Minnesota -- serving the St. Croix Valley area. Pat...
Roger Svendsen Honored for Outstanding Service
Roger Svendsen was honored with NPGA’s annual Outstanding Service Award for his special dedication to helping problem gamblers and their families. Roger is well known throughout the state of Minnesota and nationally for his long-term work in...
Pilot Site Allows Recovering Gamblers to Support Each Other Online
One of the challenges for recovering gamblers living in less populated areas is finding conveniently located recovery groups such as Gamblers Anonymous. However, a new pilot program created by Minnesota’s Project Turnabout, the state’s only...
State Bringing Comprehensive, Team Approach to Problem Gambling Awareness and Treatment
Historically, Minnesota’s focus on problem gambling has not taken into consideration how it may fit within the context of other addictions and mental illnesses. However, Minnesota’s Department of Human Services (DHS), the agency that provides...
NCPG Releases Internet Responsible Gaming Standards
The National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) has approved the first comprehensive U.S. standards on internet responsible gaming. “As state after state looks to legalize internet gambling, we developed these standards to provide guidance to all...
Twins Study Sheds Light on Role of Environment and Genetics on Problem Gambling in Young People
It’s been well established that genes play a major role in predicting gambling disorders but there have been few studies examining the role of genetics in young adults. Recent research performed by a group of Minnesota researchers assessed the role...
Real Voices: A Profile in Gambling Recovery
Although Dianne is not a big football fan, she’ll never forget the Monday Night Football game between the Minnesota Vikings and Dallas Cowboys on January 3, 1983. It was the first major bet her husband, Don, placed on a football game. He bet a...
A Few Moments with Dr. Jon Grant
Dr. Jon Grant, Professor of Psychiatry at the University of Minnesota and co-director of the Impulse Control Disorders Clinic at the University of Minnesota, will be leaving Minnesota to become the director of addiction research at the University...
What Does “Problem Gambling” Mean to the General Public?
Ask a professional counselor or psychiatrist to define problem gambling, and you’ll get a variety of definitions depending on that person’s level of training and practice. Ultimately, they would likely turn to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual...
Seeking Current or Past Compulsive Gamblers for Research Study
Researchers at the University of Minnesota are conducting a study of problem gambling. If you are 18 years of age or older, speak English, and are either a current compulsive gambler or have been a compulsive gambler in the past, you are eligible...
Northstar Speaker’s Network Helps Spread the Word
The goal of the NPGA is to provide problem gambling awareness training and education to all corners of the state of Minnesota. One way it accomplishes this mission is through an evolving and growing speaker’s network. The speaker’s network is led...
Project Turnabout/Vanguard Receives CARF Certification
Project Turnabout’s Vanguard residential gambling treatment program, the only one of its kind in the state of Minnesota, is now believed to be the first non-hospital-based residential gambling rehab facility in the country to be approved by the...
Lana Nelson, Northstar Board Member Spotlight
Lana Nelson, Northstar board member since 2006, could be straight out of central casting for a social worker. Her mother was a nurse, known for her caring ways and ability to listen carefully to someone’s concerns. Lana inherited many of the same...
Internet-Based Interventions May Help Youth Deal With Gambling Problems
One of the challenges facing the problem gambling treatment community is finding ways to reach those struggling with gambling addiction. In particular, it can be especially challenging to help younger gamblers, who are less likely to seek...
New Survey Sheds Light on Minnesotans’ Attitude and Awareness Toward Problem Gambling
Where do Minnesotans stand regarding their understanding on problem gambling? The Northstar Problem Gambling Alliance recently commissioned a research study to find out. This past fall, a survey of 500 adults of all ages from across the state was...
Problem Gambling Awareness Week Provides Valuable Educational Opportunity
The tenth annual Problem Gambling Awareness Week is upon us. This year’s awareness week takes place from March 4 to March 10. The theme is Anyone. Anywhere. Anytime. Nationally, awareness week is sponsored by the National Council on Problem...
Gambling Among Minnesota Public School Students Declines
A new study of gambling rates among Minnesota youth reflects a continued, gradual decrease in the overall rate of gambling among students in 9th and 12th grades. However, the rate of frequent gamblers, defined as those who gamble daily or weekly,...
National Center for Responsible Gaming is Major Funder for Gambling Research
A considerable portion of gambling-related research is undertaken through financial support from the National Center for Responsible Gaming (NCRG). NCRG is the only national organization exclusively devoted to funding research that helps increase...
NPGA Board Member Profile: John Rundquist
John Rundquist, senior counselor and marketing director at Crossroads Aftercare Program, will never forget his first interaction with a problem gambler eight years ago. “I had a client who had been living in his car in the desert, and I saw that he...
What is “Problem Gambling?”
What exactly describes the circumstances faced by a gambler when there’s a persistent inability to stop gambling when undesired consequences result? Is it a “problem?” An “addiction?” A “compulsion?” An “obsession?” A “disease?” A “disorder?”...
New Survey Sheds Light on Minnesotans’ Attitude and Awareness Toward Problem Gambling
Where do Minnesotans stand regarding their understanding on problem gambling? The Northstar Problem Gambling Alliance recently commissioned a research study to find out. This past fall, a survey of 500 adults of all ages from across the state was...
The Two Primary Types of Problem Gamblers
There are two primary types of gamblers: Action and Escape. Each gambles for different reasons and has unique characteristics and behaviors. Action Gamblers Action gamblers are often assertive, persuasive, loud and energetic, and as a group are...
The Evolution of Problem Gambling Treatment
One of the considerable challenges in effectively treating those with any kind of addiction, whether alcohol, drugs or gambling, is the degree to which professional helpers receive adequate training in addictive illness. At present, only a small...
The Birth of an Alliance
In 2001, gambling in Minnesota was entering its second decade. Deemed successful and gaining increasing acceptance in the state, all signs pointed to an ever-expanding universe of gambling options. At the same time, however, there was growing...
Problem, Pathological Gambling Rates High Among Veterans
A recent study of veterans receiving care through the Department of Veterans Affairs revealed that about 8% of U.S. veterans are problem gamblers and an additional 2% are pathological gamblers. The study, funded by the VA Health Services Research...
Gambling Among Minnesota Public School Students Declines
A new study of gambling rates among Minnesota youth reflects a continued, gradual decrease in the overall rate of gambling among students in 9th and 12th grades. However, the rate of frequent gamblers, defined as those who gamble daily or weekly,...
Minnesotan Receives International Addiction Research Award
Jessie Breyer, Ph.D., a member of the Psychology faculty at Century College in White Bear Lake, received the 2010 Durand Jacobs Award for her paper, “Young Adult Gambling Behaviors and their Relationship with the Persistence of ADHD.” The Durand...
Researchers Find Similarities Between Problem Gambling and Other Addictions
New research from the National Center for Responsible Gaming and its Institute of Research on Gambling Disorders suggests that the brain activity of problem gamblers is similar to that of drug users. An individual’s genetic makeup and the...
What is Problem Gambling?
For most of us, gambling is just recreation—something we do occasionally with some of the money we set aside for entertainment after we’ve taken care of necessities. But many forms of entertainment come with some element of risk. Gambling is no...
Resources for Gambling Help
Counselors Visit Pasture to Hone Skills
At first thought, a secluded horse pasture 35 miles north of the Twin Cities is about the last place you’d expect to find a group of therapists honing their craft. However, upon closer examination, you’d find that the unique interaction between...