| | | | | |  | | | | | | | | | | | Who Will You Inspire Today? How do we support established professionals in our field today and encourage students to pursue work in mental health, addictions, social work, behavioral health, psychology, psychiatry – as prevention specialists, treatment providers, and recovery service supporters? Strengthening our mental health workforce has never been more important as the social and political environment creates a greater need for mental health resources, care, and breaking down stigma and other barriers in Washington State than we have the capacity to provide. It’s estimated that one in four people will experience a mental health issue that needs supportive care in our lifetimes. Recruiting, training, and retaining a diverse behavioral health workforce that includes people with a broader range of lived experiences and cultural backgrounds is crucial – in prevention, treatment, and recovery services. Student Grants and Scholarships The Evergreen Council on Problem Gambling (ECPG) is proud to announce its new Student Grants and Scholarships Program to support students at all levels working toward degrees in mental health/behavioral health at accredited Washington state colleges and universities. We hope this support will help inspire students to pursue and continue in education and careers in mental health fields to make a positive difference. Four levels of support are available, and the first application cycle closes October 1, 2022. See more information in this issue of Insights and full application on our website. Lifelong Learning The mental health field is a dynamic field that changes over time. Of course, ECPG continues to provide continuing education that offers those interested in gambling and gaming disorders, mental health, and addiction issues opportunities to network, offer knowledge, and gain new experience – from cutting edge best practices to better cultural understanding and awareness – that will strengthen your work. If our spring Focus on the Future conference is any indication, our prevention specialists, counselors, and recovery services providers are excited to return to in-person trainings. It was fabulous to be together again and learn not only from incredible experts in our field but also from each other’s expertise and experience. You’ll find more information in this issue of Insights on upcoming in-person, live webinars, and self-directed learning opportunities – such as our July Quarterly Training in Yakima, expanded Foundations in Gaming Disorder Core Training, our Fall Four Directions conference in September, RG STAR Responsible Gaming Staff Training And Resources, and free webinars on a wide range of topics. We hope these continuing education opportunities will inspire all of you to remain curious, heighten critical thinking, share, and learn from colleagues, and continue to provide the highest quality care for those we serve. Thank you! Maureen Greeley
Executive Director | | | | | | | | | | ECPG is now offering support for students at all levels pursuing education in our field through four diverse grants and scholarships outlined below. Deadline to apply for the first funding cycle is October 1, 2022. The Evergreen Council on Problem Gambling (ECPG) seeks to seed innovation through supporting student research and education in the fields of psychology and cognitive and behavioral sciences to address social issues as they apply to Gambling and Gaming Disorders in the following priority areas: - Addressing Gambling and Gaming Disorders as they impact at-risk and vulnerable populations
- Understanding the connections between addictive behaviors and health
- Understanding and eliminating stigma/intersectional stigmas and prejudice of Gambling and Gaming Disorders as Public Health issues (e.g., culture, race, gender, sexual orientation, religious beliefs, age, disability, and socioeconomic status)
- Special concerns of populations that have historically been underrepresented in research on Gambling and Gaming Disorders
- Understanding connections between Gambling/Gaming Disorders and Suicide
| | Dissertation Research Grant Learn More (Two grant cycles per year. Individuals are eligible for one grant per year up to $3,500 each. Plus Travel/Registration support for ECPG/NCPG conferences. Anticipate 3 awards given per year.) A grant to support graduate student empirical research for the purpose of receiving doctoral dissertation in the fields of psychology and cognitive or behavioral science on topics related to Gambling and/or Gaming Disorder Prevention, Treatment, and Recovery at an accredited college or university in Washington State. These grants are offered to support students who are committed to careers in psychology or related mental health/social sciences to support Prevention, Treatment, Recovery, and Research in the field. Individuals from groups that have historically been underrepresented in psychology or cognitive or behavioral sciences are encouraged to apply. | | | Graduate-Level Academic Thesis Award Learn More (Two grant cycles per year. Individuals are eligible for one grant per year up to $3,000 each plus Travel/Registration support for ECPG/NCPG conferences. Anticipate three awards given per year.) An award to support graduate students currently enrolled in a master’s degree program working on their master’s thesis in the fields of psychology or cognitive or behavioral sciences on topics related to Gambling and/or Gaming Disorder Prevention, Treatment, and Recovery at an accredited college or university in Washington State. These awards are offered to support students who are committed to careers in psychology and related mental health/social sciences to support Prevention, Treatment, Recovery, and Research in the field. Individuals from groups that have historically been underrepresented in psychology or cognitive or behavioral sciences are encouraged to apply. | | | | Advanced Undergraduate Academic Scholarship Learn More (Two cycles per year. Individuals are eligible for one scholarship per year up to $2,500 each. Anticipate three awards given per year.) A scholarship for undergraduate students with demonstrated financial need entering their Junior or Senior year studying psychology or cognitive or behavioral sciences, including course work/studies in Gambling and/or Gaming Disorder Prevention, Treatment, and Recovery at an accredited college or university in Washington State. Students who have completed their associate’s degree and are licensed Substance Use Disorder Professionals with an interest in pursuing a baccalaureate degree in psychology or cognitive or behavioral sciences as well as Washington State Gambling Counselor Certification will be given preference. | | | Early Undergraduate Academic Scholarship Learn More (Two cycles per year. Individuals are eligible for one scholarship per year up to $2,000 each. Anticipate three awards given per year.) A scholarship for undergraduate students with demonstrated financial need entering their Freshman or Sophomore years who have an interest in studying psychology or cognitive or behavioral sciences. | | | | | | | | | | | | | | Free webinar – Introduction to Problem Gambling in WA State and Gambling Counselor Certification (not for CE credit) Recorded on: June 1, 2022 We're listing this here in case you missed it. It's an excellent resource for you to watch and share. Watch the pre-recorded webinar here. In partnership with the WA State Health Care Authority | |  | | | | | Free webinar – Gambling Disorder: The Non-Substance-Related Addictive Disorder June 23, 2022, 11 am – 2 pm PT (3 CE credits, NAADAC) Register Here In partnership with the Northwest ATTC.  | | | | | | Summer Quarterly Training July 11-14, 2022 Red Lion Hotel Yakima Center, Yakima, WA Advanced Training in Behavioral Health (12.5 CEs) Gambling Counselor Core Training (30 CEs = 10 self-directed + 20 in-person) Register Here | | | | | | | | | |  Foundations in Gaming Disorder Core Training Coming SOON! Now 100% online self-directed (asynchronous). Increased from 15 to 30 hours. | | | | | |  | Summer Quarterly Training July 11-14, 2022 Howard Johnson Plaza, Yakima, WA Click for Details and Registration Advanced Training in Behavioral Health (July 13-14) - Earn up to 12.5 CE Credit Hours
- Topics: Mental Health First Aid for Adults who work with Youth (6.5 hours), Family Recovery (2 hours), Grief and Recovery (4 hours)
Gambling Counselor Core Training (July 11-13) - 30 Total CE Hours includes:
- 10 hours self-directed (available now)
- 20 hours live and in-person
- BONUS!: July GCCT attendees are invited to stay for one day of advanced training on July 14, including topics on Grief and Recovery (4 hours) and Family Recovery (2 hours). Don’t miss this rare opportunity for extra CE credits!
Who is the GCCT program for? - Licensed clinicians seeking Gambling Counselor Certification *
- Anyone seeking a deep dive into understanding Gambling Disorder
 * For those seeking to become Washington State Certified Gambling Counselors, please familiarize yourself with the Certification requirements, including education and licensing requirements, to verify your eligibility and ability to complete the Certification program. * Only those who qualify are eligible to complete the Gambling Counselor Certification program, but the Gambling Counselor Core Training is open to ALL who wish to develop an in-depth understanding of gambling, problem gambling, Gambling Disorder, and treatment services. Join us and meet others! | | | |  | Four Directions Conference Returns this Fall! September 19-22, 2022 Little Creek Casino Resort Gathering in Community to learn, share experiences, successes, and challenges – and to Celebrate – have been hallmarks of the Four Directions Conference since it first launched in 2009. After two years, ECPG is so pleased to welcome everyone back for the return of Four Directions this Fall – In Person! Please join us in September for inspiring and interactive learning opportunities in Treatment, Prevention, Recovery Services, Cultural Awareness, and Responsible Gambling and Gaming. More course and continuing education information will follow, as well as links for registration. Until then, please Save the Date for September 19-22, 2022, at Little Creek Casino Resort on the beautiful lands of the Squaxin Island Tribe. Here are just a few Highlights of what’s in store. | | Susan Aglukark, Inuk Award Winning Singer, Songwriter & Inspirational Speaker Susan blends her singing with her messages of hope for, and the history of, her people, the Inuk of Arctic Canada. She weaves words and music and lyrics into hopes and ideas for a better, hopeful, thriving future for the aboriginal people. In her presentations, Susan addresses universal issues such as social problems, health problems in aboriginal communities and the links to rapid change and how to cope with that change, along with many other issues. | | | | | | Gordon James, Culture 2 Culture, Native Strategies Gordon James, President of the Board of Directors for Native Strategies, is an accomplished writer and engaging presenter, Gordon and has worked with numerous government agencies, hundreds of tribes, and nonprofit organizations throughout the United States, Canada, and the Territory of Guam. This important session covers a tribal historical perspective, legal issues, tribal sovereignty, and tribal government, providing enhanced understanding of Tribes, their peoples and unique cultures, and a broader awareness of the importance of multi-culturalism. | | | | Responsible Gaming Tribal Leader Summit and Training for Gaming Industry Managers and Employees Four Directions will offer a special forum for Gaming Industry leaders to discuss innovative responsible gaming practices. Benefits of Responsible Gaming Programs for Tribal Casinos and Communities; Innovative Practices in Tribal Responsible Gaming, Self-Exclusion, and Training are just a few of the topics. The Summit is also intended to provide important networking opportunities for Tribal Leaders and Casino Executives with responsible gaming advocates and treatment providers. Responsible Gaming Training for Casino Supervisors/Managers and for Casino Frontline Employees will be offered. Four Directions Conference Hotel HOTEL ACCOMMODATIONS: We have reserved a block of rooms for conference attendees at very special rates at the Little Creek Casino Resort. Conference rates are offered to attendees based on availability. Room quantities are limited, so reserve your room early. Little Creek Casino Resort is nestled among the diverse landscape of sun-dappled rain forests, deep canyons, and mountain ridges of the Kamilche Valley. Guest rooms and suites are spacious, airy, and well-appointed, and include complimentary high-speed internet and flat panel HD TVs with expanded channels. The resort includes an indoor pool, fitness center, and state-of-the-art spa. LITTLE CREEK CASINO RESORT: 91 W State Route 108, Shelton, WA 98584| Reservations: 800.667.7711 Conference Guest Room Rates: $129/night plus tax – Standard King/Double Queen; $149/night plus tax – Premium King/Double Queen. Special rate cut-off date is September 4, 2022. *When making reservations, identify yourself as a Four Directions attendee and use Group Code: Evergreen Council on Problem Gambling Annual Conference. | | | |  | Foundations in Gaming Disorder – Core Coming soon, fall 2022! This training, previously offered via live webinar, is getting a full make-over. It will now be offered in a 100% online self-directed and self-paced format. Also, previously the core training was 15 hours; it is now being increased to 30 hours. Production is still under way with our partners at the Massachusetts Council on Gaming and Health, but we hope to have it ready to launch and registration open around October 2022. Check-in on our website regularly, or sign up to get training announcements. Foundations in Gaming Disorder-Core training is approved by the International Gambling Counselor Certification Board (IGCCB) for the International Gaming Disorder Certificate (IGDC). | | | | ECPG/NCPG JOINT MEMBERSHIP Not yet a member? SIGN UP HERE Take advantage of our ECPG/NCPG Joint Membership – join both and save! As an ECPG member, you’ll receive member discounted rates on all of our trainings and conferences – all of which offer Continuing Education Units from many associations and certification boards. | | | | | | | | If you’re looking for a place to put your passion to work, meet exciting challenges with creativity, and find fulfillment in making a difference as part of a talented team… Are YOU Our Next: | | Prevention & Community Engagement Specialist Learn More Bring your public health, prevention, and training expertise to: - Create and deliver community outreach and education presentations, workshops, and trainings
- Lead efforts to diversify programs to address cultural and linguistic needs and barriers to awareness and engagement
- Develop community prevention programs, curricula, services, and coalitions with diverse community partners
| | | Training & Event Specialist Learn More Are you detail oriented, love helping people hone their skills; shine at customer services and relationship building? Use these skills to help ECPG: - Plan and present conferences, forums, trainings, workshops (in-person; live webinars; self-directed virtual; and more)
- Assist from planning to site selection, and from contracting with presenters to managing events on site
- Recommend and create solutions and/or changes to existing programs to improve effectiveness of trainings
| | | | ECPG offers a culture that places a high value on balancing hard work and self-care; offers full employer-paid medical benefits and flexible schedules; and strives to make a positive difference for individuals, families, and communities through our Mission and Values-based programs and services. | | | | | | | | | | ![]() | International Exam The International Gambling Counselor Certification Board (IGCCB) has made changes to the Gambling Counselor Exam registration process, and the ICGC-I/II application process. - Please visit the IGCCB exam webpage and review the latest exam handbook, for full details.
- Washington State residents may continue to access the exam for just the WSCGC-I/II state-level certification, without needing to apply or pay for the certification fee for the International Certification (ICGC-I/II). This process now requires a letter of recommendation from ECPG that they have requested to take the exam for the state-level certification.
Case Conceptualization (exam alternative), now available in WA State The Washington State Gambling Counselor Certification Committee (WSGCCC) is releasing in the next edition of the Certification Manual (2022), a brand-new addition of an exam alternative, in the form of a written Case Conceptualization. This has been a project of love nearly three years in the making, in order to reduce barriers to obtaining the Washington State Gambling Counselor Certification (WSCGC-I/II). The Case Conceptualization aims to provide an exam alternative that may reduce issues with exam anxiety, English as a second language, and accessibility, while allowing an applicant to demonstrate their knowledge of gambling counseling best-practices, ethical decision making, cultural sensitivity, and trauma-informed care. | | | | | | | |  | Angel of the Winds Casino Resort Becomes First Certified Responsible Gaming Partner in Washington State Angel Of The Winds Casino Resort has made a significant commitment to a Responsible Gaming Culture that provides guests with an entertaining, recreational gaming environment and offers Responsible Gaming tools and resources. Should guests require information or assistance regarding responsible gaming, Team Members at Angel Of The Winds Casino Resort are trained to direct them to the resources they may need. “We’re honored and proud to be the first to achieve this certification in the state of Washington. It’s an incredible accomplishment for both our Team and our property. Responsible gaming is a top priority at Angel Of The Winds Casino Resort, and this certification proves that,” said Travis O’Neil, CEO. More than 300 employees at Angel of the Winds Casino Resort completed the Evergreen Council on Problem Gambling’s RG STAR program (Responsible Gaming Staff Training And Resources). The full RG STAR Certification includes Responsible Gaming and Problem Gambling Policies and Procedures; Self-Exclusion Policies and Procedures; Helpline and Treatment referral information placed throughout the casino; Training for Managers/Supervisors and Frontline Employees; Policies and Procedures regarding Employee Problem Gambling; Responsible Gaming/Problem Gambling Awareness programs; Policies and Procedures regarding underage gambling; and Information that helps players understand game mechanics and odds. | | | | |  | | | A big thank you to our partners in the successful development and launch of the Advanced Professional Development: Gambling Disorder Trainer Certification Training (GDTCT), which launched in March and will wrap up later this month (June). It is a train-the-trainer model course for the development of trainers in the field of problem gambling counselor education and comes with a standardized curriculum of more than thirty hours-worth of PPT slides and additional training materials, skills practice, and activities. This course has been more than 3 years in the making and is the first in a new series of Advanced Professional Development courses, created and facilitated in partnership with Dr. Wiley Harwell, Executive Director of the Oklahoma Association on Problem Gambling & Gaming and Dr. Lori Rugle, independent consultant and Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychiatry, University of Maryland, and Special Projects Consultant with the Maryland Center of Excellence on Problem Gambling. After this pilot launch closes in June, feedback from attendees will be reviewed and any final changes to the program made, before scheduling the next training dates. Watch an introductory video or read the blog to learn more about the development of this program, pre-requisites to enrollment, cost, and all that is included with purchase. This training is approved by the International Gambling Counselor Certification Board (IGCCB) as meeting the training requirements of their new Certified Gambling Disorder Trainer (CGT) Credential. Please visit IGCCB’s CGT webpage for a full list of the certification requirements and application process. | | | | | Connections: Healthy Gambling and Gaming Podcast S3E3: Women in Gaming Dr. McGinnis shares a fascinating view from her 20 years of experience as a female gamer, a researcher of video games and anger, and her experience as a professional counselor, about what it’s like for women in a male-dominated gamer culture. Find it on Anchor, or most places you normally get your podcasts. https://www.evergreencpg.org/listen/ | | | | | | | | | | Kaleidoscope: Reflections of Diverse Views on Mental Health Equity What does creating equitable, respectful, and compassionate mental health services for LGBTQIA+ communities mean? Affirmative peers, social support systems, and professional mental health services are crucial to helping combat discrimination, stigma, and mental health inequities. Join us for a rich dialogue and reflection during Pride Month. Coming to you live on Fri. June 17, 1-2 pm PT. Find details and watch links (coming soon) here: https://www.evergreencpg.org/watch/ | | | | | | | | | | Evergreen Council on Problem Gambling
1821 4th Ave. E, | Olympia, Washington 98506
360-352-6133 | info@evergreencpg.org | | | | | | | | | |
