Forum Will Relate Personal Stories and Solutions

For Immediate Release - Alexandria, VA

Donovan Kuehn
703-741-7686, ext. 125
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NAADAC, the Association for Addiction Professionals, has joined with National Council on Problem Gambling to address the issue of gambling addiction. Gerard Schmidt, NAADAC's Clinical Issues Consultant, will join a panel discussion on Friday, February 10, 2006, to discuss the national implications of problem gambling.

The forum will feature two speakers who have personal experience with gambling addiction: Lauren, a college junior who will describe her devastating experience with on-line poker, and Carl, USMC Master Gunnery Sergeant (Ret.) and addiction counselor, who will describe his experiences with gambling and problem gambling, including his work at the military's only gambling-specific treatment facility.

"Gambling is often a hidden addiction, one that can be fed through an internet connection to an on-line gambling site or through a purchase at the nearest corner store. Addiction professionals are committed to helping people recognize and recover from their addictions," said Cynthia Moreno Tuohy, NAADAC's Executive Director. "A critical component of help is to ensure that those who provide gambling opportunities recognize their responsibility to develop policies and programs to address problem gambling issues."

The February 10th forum is being hosted by the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG), the national advocate for programs and services to assist problem gamblers and their families.

For more information on the forum and its speakers, please contact the National Council on Problem Gambling at 202.547.9204, This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or visit www.ncpgambling.org.