Problem Gambling Counselor Certification
On-demand and real-time courses recommended by OHA PGS to meet Mental Health and Addiction Certification Board of Oregon (MHACBO) requirements for Certified Gambling Addiction Counselors (CGAC).
Initial and Advanced Training Options
Consistent with Mental Health and Addiction Certification Board of Oregon (MHACBO) requirements for CGAC I certification, ACORN offers 60 hours of continuing professional education in problem gambling treatment. These include the 30-hour, real-time Precertification course, as well as two options for advanced training: 1) the on-demand, 30-hour Working with Families in Problem Gambling Treatment course or 2) the hybrid, 30-hour Advanced Training for Problem Gambling Counselors. Those seeking CGAC II certification may select either of the two advanced training options to fulfill MHACBO certification requirements. OHA PGS recommends completing both advanced training options at some point. Importantly, both advanced training options are free for those living or working in Oregon.
-
Problem Gambling Counselor Precertification, Fall 2024
CourseReal-time. Oct 11 - Dec 6, 2024. Provides the 30 hours required for initial certification as a Gambling Addictions Counselor I (CGAC I). Content is informed by the Problem Gambling Treatment Provider Core Competencies. Approved for 30 CE hours.
-
Working with Families in Problem Gambling Treatment
Course4.7 average rating (6 reviews)On-demand. 30 CE hours. Introduces family therapy concepts and offers a guided tour for how to counsel families struggling with problem gambling. Free for Oregonians, courtesy of Oregon Health Authority Problem Gambling Services.
-
Advanced Problem Gambling Counselor Training
BundleOffered in a hybrid format, this course bundle includes both real-time, online education and self-paced, on-demand courses. Together, these education components yield 30 hours of training needed to complete Precertification Part Two requirements.
Who Should Attend
Certification track courses are recommended for:
-
initial and advanced certification (CGAC I, ICGC I, CGAC II, ICGC II) and training in problem gambling treatment/treatment of disordered gambling;
-
required continuing education (CE/CEU) for disordered/problem gambling and alcohol and drug treatment provider re-certification;
-
required continuing education (CE/CEU) for maintaining professional mental health related licensure (e.g., LMFT, LPC) in Oregon and many other states; and
-
advanced skills in the treatment of disordered gambling, working with families, treating cooccurring disorders, and/or sociocultural attunement.
Accreditation
ACORN has been approved by the International Gambling Counselor Certification Board (IGCCB), the Mental Health & Addiction Certification Board of Oregon (MHACBO), and the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) as an Approved Continuing Education Provider (NBCC ACEP No. 7274). Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. ACORN is solely responsible for all aspects of the programs.
ACORN additionally houses Oregon Health Authority (OHA) courses for counselors and prevention specialists. OHA courses are taught by OHA instructors and are approved by MHACBO, but not by IGCCB or NBCC.
Continuing education hours for each course are listed on the course webpage.
