Introduction to Sports Betting

*NEW* Provide an informative overview of the sports betting world so that those in the mental health field feel more comfortable and knowledgeable when working with others. This is not a clinical training, we won’t be diving into clinical considerations. This training is meant for those who want a better understanding of how sports betting works in the state of MA. This training will provide a detailed overview of the sports betting environment in MA, the types of bets available at sportsbook, a breakdown of the marketing strategies of sportsbooks, and finally an overview of potential risks related to sports betting

Number of CE(s): 1.5

Instructional Level: Introductory.  This training includes interactive elements such as share-backs that participants must engage in to receive full credit. This training counts toward the MA PGS Certificate Fundamental Coursework

Learning Objectives:

• Describe both the Legal and Illegal Sports Betting Landscape in Massachusetts
• Discuss the accessibility of sports betting and it’s features that can be addictive.
• Identify addiction risk factors specifically associated with sports betting

Instructor #1: Shantel Mercedes, MPH: Shantel 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

Instructor #2: Elizabeth Bice, BA; is a Program Manager for Health Resources in Action and works on the Training and Education team for M-TAC.  She has 4+ years of experience working in the gambling addiction field and has developed and facilitated online trainings on a variety of topics pertaining to Gambling Disorder.  She is particularly interested in sports betting and the covert ways gambling has been normalized in everyday life. Elizabeth also hosted a presentation on avoiding gambling harm in recovery at the 2024 Massachusetts Problem Gambling Conference: Equity in Action. She received her BA in Community Health from Tufts University.

Instructor #3: Deborah Rodriguez, DSW, LICSW, LADC I. Dr. Rodriguez is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker with over 19 years of experience working with at-risk populations and co-occurring disorders in the Greater Springfield area. She received her Doctorate of Social Work from Simmons University in Boston and her Master’s Degree from the University of Connecticut School of Social Work. Her varied professional experience with behavioral health ranges from community mental health services and advocacy to extensive relationship-building with community members and leaders. Dr. Rodriguez is an adjunct professor for Our Lady of Elms Social Work Program, and is providing direct care through her private practice Faros Counseling.

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 1.5 continuing education credits.