Psychological treatments for problem gambling (PROGRESS) study
Summary
A randomised controlled trial was conducted to examine the effectiveness of four psychological treatments for problem gambling:
- cognitive behaviour therapy
- motivational interviewing
- behaviour therapy
- client-centred therapy.
The study, one of the largest ever conducted examining treatments for problem gambling, also included a qualitative component examining the experiences of gamblers taking part in the study.
Results did not differ significantly between the four treatment groups, so it is likely all four treatments are effective in responding to problem gambling. This is encouraging for all problem gambling treatment providers as it suggests appropriately structured treatment is associated with meaningful reductions in gambling behaviour and symptoms.
Citation
Thomas, S., Jackson, A., Browning, C., Feldman, S., Radermacher, H., Enticott, J., Anderson, C., Godbee, K., Adamopoulos, V., Stephanie Merkouris, S. 2015, Psychological treatments for problem gambling (PROGRESS) study, Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation, Melbourne.