Gambling addiction therapy
Quit your gambling addiction
Counselling for compulsive betting
Looking for help with a gambling problem, obsessive sports betting, an online gaming habit, or an uncontrollable urge to play the pokies?
As a recovered gambler, and specialist in gambling addiction therapy, I can help you quit your compulsive risk-taking and rebuild a life with financial and emotional wellbeing.
My gambling recovery program provides the structure and support you need to address both the psychological aspects behind gambling addiction and its real-world consequences, and achieve a lasting recovery.
"Freedom from gambling starts with understanding the powerful psychological hooks that mess with your mind - and what you can do about it."
What is gambling addiction therapy?
Gambling Recovery Therapy is a specialised treatment approach to help people overcome compulsive gambling behaviour and develop healthier relationships with money and risk.
Unlike general addiction counselling, my therapy specifically addresses the unique challenges of gambling addiction, including financial recovery, debt management, and rebuilding trust with loved ones.
This comprehensive approach helps you to not just break free from gambling, but create a stable and fulfilling life free from the urge to bet.
Who can benefit from gambling recovery therapy?
My service is designed for anyone who:
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Feels their gambling has become problematic or out of control
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Has tried to cut back or stop gambling but struggled to maintain changes
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Experiences financial difficulties due to gambling losses
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Finds themselves preoccupied with thoughts of gambling
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Hides their gambling activities from friends & family
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Uses gambling to escape problems or relieve distress
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Has experienced relationship or work problems due to gambling
My therapeutic approach to gambling recovery
My approach to gambling recovery is based on understanding that gambling addiction involves powerful psychological drivers that hijack your brain's reward system. It is not a moral failing or lack of willpower. I teach you to rewire these pathways for healthier functioning using:
- Financial Therapy: developing a healthy relationship to money management & addressing financial trauma
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Transformational identity shift: developing awareness of triggers and cravings of a version of yourself who 'previously’ used gambling as a coping mechanism, as well as creating a whole new self-identity where your needs and wants are met
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Solution-focused brief therapy: identifying strategies for specific triggers and resolving them, making you more resourceful and less inclined to revert to your old way of being, or coping habits
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Subconscious Dynamics™: addressing unconscious patterns and creating new associations
"True recovery means not just stopping drug use, but building a life that makes drugs unnecessary."
The Gambling Recovery Program
A typical recovery program runs for 6-8 weeks, with a series of 60-90 minute sessions occurring weekly during the initial phase, then decreasing in regularity as you build confidence in yourself and your recovery.
Assess & plan
1-2 sessions
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Evaluate your gambling patterns & history
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Assess your financial situation & immediate needs
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Identify your triggers & high-risk situations
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Develop specific recovery goals & plan
Core recovery work
2-6 sessions
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Build motivation & commitment to change
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Develop effective strategies to manage gambling urges
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Address underlying issues contributing your heavy drinking
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Create healthy routines & support systems
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Learn relapse prevention techniques
Maintain & grow
2-4sessions
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Reinforce new habits & thought patterns
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Develop long-term financial wellbeing strategies
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Build a fulfilling drug-free lifestyle
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Plan for ongoing support & growth
Outcomes
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Freedom from compulsive gambling urges
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Improved financial stability and money management skills
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Better relationships & communication
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Enhanced stress management
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Greater self-awareness & personal growth
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Renewed sense of control & direction
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Practical strategies for long-term financial recovery
Book an appointment
Appointments are available at my private practice in Hamilton, Newcastle or online via a secure Zoom session at these times:
In person: Tue, Wed, Thu 8.00am - 6.30pm
Zoom: Mon, Wed, Thu 8.00am - 6.30pm
Whether we meet online or in-person, I will provide a confidential, safe, non-judgemental space for us to work together.
Success story
Max started gambling online during lockdown to relieve the boredom, but it spiraled out of control. Within six months, he had maxed out three credit cards and was lying to family about where the money was going. He couldn't seem to stop.
We worked on understanding the psychological hooks that keep people gambling, and explored the reasons for his anxiety, boredom, and need for excitement. We also did some practical things like blocking access to gambling sites, developing a realistic plan to pay off his debts and figuring out healthier ways to meet his needs.
I’m proud of Max’s journey. He hasn't gambled once in 8 months, is steadily reducing his debt and has rebuilt trust with his family by being transparent about finances. The best thing is he no longer feels controlled by gambling urges, and has new hobbies that provide genuine fulfillment rather than the empty promise of a big win.
Max
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Are your services for young people too?Yes. I help people of any age - teenagers, young adults, or older. If you’re a parent or carer looking for support for a younger person, feel free to reach out to me too. The same applies to gender, sexual orientation, nationality or background. My practice is open to and respectful of everyone.
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Can I do sessions online?Yes. I offer both in-person sessions in Newcastle, NSW, and online counselling for clients across Australia and internationally. You can choose what works best for your comfort, schedule, and location.
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What is hypnosis and how does it help?Hypnotherapy is a gentle approach that helps you relax deeply so your subconscious mind is more open to new, helpful thoughts, and behaviours and suggestions. It can support you in changing habits, cravings, and how you see yourself — without force or fear.
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Do I have to take medication as part of your therapy?No. My approach is holistic and medication-free. We focus on natural methods, including talk therapy, life coaching, and hypnosis, to support your recovery. If you are on medication or working with a doctor, we can work together alongside that support.
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How long does therapy treatment take?Recovery is a personal journey. For some, changes happen quickly; for others, it takes as long as is exactly right for you.’s a slower process. My job is to walk beside you and help you stay on track. Whether you’re early in your journey or have tried other forms of treatment, we’ll build a plan that works for you.
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What is Subconscious Dynamic™ therapy?Subconscious Dynamics™ is a therapeutic approach that combines modern hypnosis with neuro-linguistic programming (NLP), to access the powerful subconscious mind. The subconscious mind is a powerful and neutral beast. By combining hypnosis with Subconscious Dynamic™ therapy we can bypass the overthinking conscious mind and delve into your deep mind, where you can rapidly address and rewire the brain for lasting recovery, growth, or change.
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What does 'holistic therapy' mean?Holistic therapy means we look at all parts of your life—your body, thoughts, feelings, relationships, and even your purpose. Addiction, poor mental health and self-identity issues affect everything, so healing and growth should involve everything too.
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Is this service just for drug and alcohol addiction?Not at all. While I provide drug and alcohol counselling for people struggling with drug abuse, and alcohol misuse, or any form of substance addiction, I also support people to resolve and eliminate other unhelpful compulsive behaviours and coping strategies - like gambling, emotional eating and screen addiction. If something in your life feels out of control, we can work on it together.
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What are signs of alcohol abuse or alcohol dependence?Needing more drinks to feel the same effect Drinking alone or in secret Feeling anxious or irritable without alcohol Missing work, arguments with loved ones, or health issues caused by drinking Feeling guilt or shame after drinking—but still continuing Relying on alcohol rather than enjoying it
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How do I get a loved one with addiction issues to seek help?This is a common situation. Start by approaching the person with care not criticism. Avoid confronting them when they’re under the influence, or calling them an ‘addict’. Share your concerns gently and focus on how their behaviour is affecting their health, relationships, or life goals. Offer support, not shame. If they’re not keen to commit to therapy, you can suggest doing one of my 15 minute free consultation calls to “get things off their chest,” or attending just one session. You could offer to join them if that makes them feel more comfortable, or even to book the appointment. Ultimately, you can’t force someone to change—but you can plant a seed, and be there when they’re ready. Many of my clients who once denied needing addiction help, came to me later, and made powerful, lasting changes when the timing was right for them.
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Can I get drug and alcohol help online?Yes. I offer online drug and alcohol help across Australia, as well as in-person sessions in Newcastle, NSW. Online therapy is private, flexible, and a great option if you live regionally or prefer support from home.
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What happens if I relapse?Relapse is common during recovery, and it doesn’t mean you’ve failed. We’ll use it as a learning moment and adjust your plan to make it even stronger. You’ll have tools in place to bounce back and keep moving forward.
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How long does recovery take?Everyone’s journey is different. Some people feel better quickly, while others need more time. Recovery is a process, not a quick fix—but with the right support, you can expect steady, meaningful progress.
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Is this a rehabilitation program?While this is not a residential rehabilitation facility, my one-on-one therapy offers a personalised recovery pathway that is ideal for people looking for addiction help without going into full-time rehab. It’s flexible, private, and tailored to your needs.
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When does alcohol intake become an addiction?In Australia, drinking is a big part of our social culture. At barbecues, parties, even casual get-togethers, it’s common to see almost everyone with a drink and an esky full of alcohol nearby. But alcohol intake can become an alcohol addiction when it starts to negatively affect your health, work, relationships or wellbeing — and when you feel like you can’t stop, even if you want to. Don’t wait until things get worse — early support can help you take control and stop the habit before it becomes a serious problem.
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Why do you feel depressed or anxious?Depression and anxiety are the brain’s response to long-term stress, trauma, or imbalance. In depression, areas of the brain that regulate mood and motivation—like the prefrontal cortex and amygdala—can fall out of sync. This reduces important brain chemicals like serotonin and dopamine, making it harder to feel joy, energy or connection. In anxiety, the brain’s “alarm system” becomes overactive. The amygdala can stay on high alert, even when there’s no real danger. This can make ordinary situations feel overwhelming and exhausting.
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What are the signs and symptoms of depression?Some examples are listed here, but see our How to Tell If You’re Experiencing Depression blog post for full details: Ongoing low mood or irritability Withdrawing from people or activities Feeling worthless or guilty Headaches, stomach pain, or other physical symptoms Thoughts of self-harm or suicide
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How are coaching sessions structured, and what can I expect during a session?Coaching sessions with Rob are typically structured around the client’s specific goals and challenges. Each session involves open dialogue, goal setting, and the development of actionable plans. Clients can expect a supportive environment where they are encouraged to explore their aspirations, identify barriers, and implement strategies for success.
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What qualifications and experience does Rob McClintock have as a Success Coach?Rob McClintock is a certified Success Coach with extensive experience in personal development and coaching. He holds certifications from reputable institutions and has worked with a diverse clientele, helping them navigate challenges and achieve their goals. His approach combines evidence-based techniques with personalised strategies to support each client’s unique journey.
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What is Success Coaching, and how can it help me?Success Coaching is a collaborative process that empowers individuals to identify their goals, overcome obstacles, and achieve personal and professional growth. By working with a coach like Rob McClintock, clients can gain clarity, develop actionable strategies, and stay accountable to their objectives. This approach is designed to unlock potential and facilitate meaningful change in various aspects of life.