If you feel that the harm from gambling you or your family members are experiencing is getting too much, a psychologist may be able to help. Psychologists are highly trained and qualified professionals skilled in helping people with a range of mental health and wellbeing concerns, including gambling harm. There are a few ways you can access a psychologist. You can:
- Use the Australia-wide Find a Psychologist service or call 1800 333 497
- Ask your GP or another health professional to refer you. If you are referred to a psychologist by your GP, you might be able to get a Medicare rebate.
You may also be able to receive psychology services via telehealth so you don’t need to travel to see a psychologist. Ask your psychologist or GP for details. You can also get free support from gambling harm services in Australia. Most of these services offer therapeutic counselling, financial counselling, helplines, and online services for anyone experiencing harms due to their own or someone else’s gambling. Some states and territories have dedicated multicultural and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander services, criminal justice services, peer support programs, residential treatment, and legal support. Several state and territories also offer apps to support people with harmful gambling. To access these services, you can contact: