New Training: The Casino Console- Understanding the Convergence of Gambling and Gaming (Fall 2026)

This presentation will discuss the many ways there is an ever-increasing convergence of gambling and gaming. A review of specific research will highlight the importance of examining gaming behavior in youth to reduce risk for problematic gambling. This presentation will explore prevention and early intervention techniques to address problematic gaming and promote healthy, balanced gaming. Emphasis will be placed on how to use the Parenting Triangle model, a concept to help parents develop better discipline strategies with their children as it relates to gaming. And finally, utilize interventions to help parents get involved in their child’s gaming and reduce potential gambling behaviors.

Cost: Free

Location: Virtual

Number of CE(s): 2

Instructional Level: Intermediate. This workshop will be interactive and will include a mix of lecture, discussion, and activities. This training counts toward the MA PGS Certificate Fundamental Coursework

Learning Objectives: 

1. Define the convergence of gaming and gambling
2. Review research literature findings for gaming and gambling.
3. Identify signs and symptoms of when gaming is and is not a problem.
4. Develop involvement strategies to use with parents and youth as it relates to gaming and gambling behavior.

Speaker Bios:

Jody Bechtold, LCSW, ICGC-II, BACC, IGDC, CGT is a highly regarded gambling addiction expert working extensively across the globe with individuals, organizations, and associations. She is the CEO of The Better Institute, a group practice located in Pittsburgh, PA. She is the co-author of The Gambling Disorder Treatment Handbook: A Guide for Mental Health Professionals (2021) and 2 chapters in the Social Workers Desk Reference v 4 on Gambling and Gaming Disorders, published in 2022. She serves as an Advisor to several startup and non-profits organizations including GamFin, Birches Health, and Seagulls Flock Organization in the Philippines. She also serves as an Emeritus board member for the International Gambling Counselor Certification Board (IGCCB). Jody holds a master’s degree in social work from the University of Pittsburgh’s School of Social Work and has several certifications with the International Gambling Counselor Certification Board (ICGC-II, IGDC, BACC, CGT).

Matt Missar, LCSW, ICGC-I, IGDC is a licensed clinical social worker with The Better Institute and a graduate from the University of Pittsburgh’s School of Social Work. Matt has certification as an Internationally Certified Gambling Counselor Level I (ICGC-I) and has also obtained his International Gaming Disorder Certificate (IGDC). In his clinical practice Matt works with individuals with various mental health concerns, including but not limited to problematic gambling and video gaming. Much of Matt’s recent clinical work and research has focused on the convergence of gambling and gaming.

Continuing Education Approvals: 

Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselors

• MA 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).