Introduction to Promoting Problem Gambling Treatment Services (Spring 2025)

This training will provide valuable guidance and insight on effective ways to promote your organization’s problem gambling services in your community. Participants will step away with ideas and strategies for disseminating promotional materials. This training is interactive. We expect participants to come to the training prepared to engage in creative discussion, ideally with cameras on and microphones functioning.

Cost: Free

Location: Virtual

Number of CE(s): 1

Instructional Level: Introductory. This training includes breakout rooms and other interactive aspects. This training counts toward the MA PGS Certificate Fundamental Coursework. 

Learning Objectives

• Explain key messages about problem gambling.
• Identify platforms for promoting problem gambling services.
• Describe community factors to consider when creating promotional materials.
• Recognize and address problematic language and imagery related to problem gambling.
• Find resources for promoting problem gambling services on the MA Health Promotion Clearinghouse.

Agenda

• Problem Gambling 101
• Promotion Best Practices
• Skills Practice: Fix the Mistake
• Exploring Massachusetts Health Promotion Clearinghouse Resources
• Additional Resources

Instructor Bios

Instructor #1: Shantel Mercedes, MPH; Shantel Mercedes is a Program Associate for Health Resources in Action and works on the Training and Education team for M-TAC. She has 2 years of experience working in the gambling addiction field and has facilitated online trainings on a variety of topics pertaining to Gambling Disorder. She is particularly interested in the cultural significance and influence regarding common problem gambling behaviors. She has a BA in Public Health and Health Equity from Mills College and a Master’s in Public Health from Simmons University. 

Approval Statements

• Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LADC) – The Massachusetts Technical Assistance Center for Problem Gambling Treatment is authorized by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health to sponsor, conduct or approve continuing education programs for alcohol and drug counselors/assistants (LADCs). This program offers 1 continuing education credit.