Core competencies for disordered gambling counsellors: A modified delphi study

Abstract

Counselling for disordered gambling has emerged as a unique professional field. Research and literature on treatment approaches and best practices has burgeoned over the past 30 years. This has included the development of journals, field-specific conferences, and professional training programs specifically dedicated to under-standing and treating gambling problems. Mental health professionals are now expected to master field specific knowledge and undergo supervision prior to engaging in problem gambling counselling. In this paper, we share the results of a modified Delphi study in which 45 experts reached agreement on core competencies for problem gambling treatment providers. A total of 166 core competencies were endorsed as high agreement items. The authors share implications and the potential usefulness of core competencies for problem gambling counsellor professional preparation, workforce development, and quality of care.