I have often heard this capricious phrase from clients in the early stages of recovery: “I don't know how I ended up there; my car must have driven itself to the casino!” Denying the power of the obsession/addiction often leads the problem gambler to almost believe their vehicle has mysterious powers and acts on its own. Those who want to quit gambling can attend Gamblers Anonymous, psychotherapy, attend supportive groups, and take medication, but still are amazed how easily they can find themselves inside of a casino and placing a bet. Staying away from all gambling environments is a major first step in recovery.

In therapy, I initially join the “recovering” gambler in behavioral contracts, which involve commitments, and specific plans for safety. For example, a client may agree to this kind of an agreement: “I commit to you my therapist or sponsor, that I will drive this specific route to the pharmacy, this route to the supermarket and then directly home. I expect to be home by 4:30 at which time I'll call you.” While this scenario seems incredibly simplistic, it seems more crucial, in my experience, for gamblers than other addicts and alcoholics. Since Pathological Gambling is an Impulse Control Disorder, monitoring these impulses and setting up safe plans is often necessary. Being able to trust another, make commitments and get “through” visceral urges are important steps in recovery. To accept one's powerlessness (as in GA's first step) and begin relying on a greater Power (Steps 2 and 3) are prodigious steps for many problem gamblers.

Abstinence is a major factor in assisting gamblers to get rested, nourished and more prepared to deal with anger, guilt and sadness. The floods of these feelings may need careful monitoring. As appropriate, family members can help decrease the chances of further financial losses and contracts for safety. Spouses, parents and friends tend to be very slow to trust especially since the gambling was often been so deeply concealed.

Over time, many recovering gamblers are particularly friendly, generous, and quite willing to “carry the message to other problem gamblers who still suffer.” They even come to humorously accept that their car is just an inanimate object that only goes where it is driven, just as they only go where THEY are driven!