Intensive treatment for gambling addiction
When outpatient support is not enough, residential rehabilitation offers the structure and guidance you need to start again.
Residential rehabilitation is an intensive treatment programme for people whose gambling addiction requires more support than outpatient therapy alone can provide. It is not a last resort: it is a powerful tool that has helped thousands of people rebuild their lives.
What does a rehab programme include?
Individual therapy
Regular sessions with a psychologist specialising in behavioural addictions to work on your patterns, triggers and emotions.
Group therapy
Sharing experiences with others in similar situations reduces isolation and helps normalise the recovery process.
Psychoeducation
Understanding how the addiction cycle works, the brain's reward system, and the mechanisms of pathological gambling.
Relapse prevention
Identifying risk situations, developing coping strategies, and planning the return to everyday life.
Structured activities
Sport, creative workshops, relaxation techniques and other activities that help build healthy routines.
When is rehab the right option?
- Gambling has caused serious consequences: significant debt, job loss, relationship breakdown.
- You have tried to stop on your own or with outpatient help, but it has not worked.
- You need a protected environment, away from your usual triggers.
- You need time and space to focus exclusively on your recovery.
Duration and coverage
A typical programme lasts 6 to 16 weeks. In Germany, statutory health or pension insurance may cover a significant portion of the cost. In the UK, residential treatment is available through the NHS and private providers. Speak with your GP or a counsellor to explore options.
How to access rehab
1. Speak with your GP
Your GP is the first point of contact. They can provide a referral and an initial medical report.
2. Contact an addiction counselling service
Addiction counselling services can assess your needs and help prepare the application. The consultation is free and confidential.
3. Formal application
With the medical report and the counselling assessment, the application is submitted to the relevant funding body. The counselling service will support you through the entire process.
Taking this step does not mean you have failed
Asking for intensive help is one of the bravest decisions you can make. Rehab is not for those who are worst off — it is for those who want to get better.
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