An examination of the perceptions of an all-female problem gambling counselling treatment

Abstract

This study explores clients’ perceptions of women-only group counselling for problem gambling. The clients surveyed participated in a women-only treatment group through the Alberta Alcohol and Drug Commission (AADAC). The group was a pilot project for AADAC, in that it was the first gambling treatment group for women only; previously, only mixed (male and female) groups had been run. Therefore, this is the first known group of its kind to be conducted in Alberta or Western Canada. A qualitative, thematic analysis using the constant comparison method was conducted using in-depth interviews with a focus group of five women. Themes emerged from this analysis, providing insights into counselling practices for women problem gamblers. The results demonstrated that the women who participated in the group found women-only groups to be helpful. Additionally, the participants reported that, if they had to participate in group treatment for problem gambling, they would prefer women-only treatment in the future. Therefore, further research and exploration of women-only treatment are recommended in order to improve problem gambling treatment for women.