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CARF Accredited Gambling Treatment

Evidence-Based Gambling Addiction Treatment in New Jersey

Valley Spring Recovery Center delivers personalized, outpatient gambling addiction treatment in Bergen County, NJ. From medically managed stabilization through lasting recovery, our clinical team walks beside you at every stage.

★★★★★ Rated 5.0 — Best of New Jersey #1

Gambling Treatment Programs at Valley Spring

We offer a structured continuum of care for gambling addiction, from intensive stabilization through long-term alumni support. Every program uses evidence-based therapies and is supervised by our clinical and psychiatric team.

Partial Care (PHP)

Mon-Sat, 9 AM - 3 PM

Our highest level of outpatient care. 4-6 weeks of daily structured treatment including group therapy, individual sessions, medication management, and psychoeducation on gambling and the brain.

4-6 weeks / Post-detox stabilization

IOP 5-Day

Mon-Fri, 6 - 9 PM

Evening intensive outpatient designed for working adults. Five nights a week of CBT, DBT, relapse prevention groups, and individual therapy. Work during the day, heal at night.

6-8 weeks / Working professionals

IOP 3-Day

3 Days/Week, 6 - 9 PM

A step down from the 5-day IOP for clients transitioning toward independence. Continued group therapy, skill-building, and relapse prevention with greater schedule flexibility.

Step-down from PHP or IOP5

Virtual IOP

Evenings, 6 - 9 PM (Remote)

The same evidence-based IOP curriculum delivered via secure telehealth. Ideal for clients who face transportation barriers or live outside Bergen County. Same therapists, same structure.

Remote access / NJ residents

Outpatient Program (OP)

1-2 Sessions/Week (Virtual)

Ongoing individual and group therapy for clients who have completed higher levels of care. Continued medication management, relapse prevention, and life skills reinforcement.

Maintenance / Long-term recovery

Alumni Program

Ongoing Monthly Events

Lifelong peer support and community after discharge. Monthly alumni gatherings, sober activities, recovery workshops, and continued access to clinical check-ins when needed.

Lifelong / Post-treatment support
CARF Accredited
#1 Best of New Jersey
NAATP Member
BBB A+ Rated

Real Stories from Gambling Recovery

Our clients share their experiences with gambling addiction treatment at Valley Spring.

★★★★★

"I was struggling a fifth every day and couldn't stop on my own. The evening IOP at Valley Spring let me keep my job while getting the help I needed. The therapists genuinely cared about my recovery."

Michael R.Gambling Recovery, IOP Graduate
★★★★★

"After my detox, I started Partial Care at Valley Spring. The Vivitrol injection made a huge difference in managing cravings, and the group sessions helped me understand why I was struggling in the first place."

Sarah L.Gambling Recovery, PHP Graduate
★★★★★

"My family was falling apart because of my drinking. Valley Spring's family therapy program — Together We Heal — helped us rebuild trust. I've been sober 14 months now and my relationships are stronger than ever."

David K.Gambling Recovery, Alumni Member

11 Reasons to Choose Valley Spring for Gambling Treatment

What sets our approach to gambling addiction recovery apart from other treatment centers in New Jersey.

1

CARF-Accredited Facility

Nationally recognized quality standards for behavioral health treatment, verified through rigorous independent review.

2

8:1 Client-to-Staff Ratio

One of the lowest ratios in New Jersey ensures you receive personalized attention from therapists and clinical staff.

3

Evening IOP for Working Adults

Our 6-9 PM IOP schedule means you can maintain your career and family obligations while receiving intensive treatment.

4

Medication-Assisted Treatment

Naltrexone, SSRIs, mood stabilizers — managed by our psychiatric team to reduce cravings and prevent relapse.

5

NJ's Only Sleep Specialist in Addiction

One of only 10 sleep specialists in New Jersey working in addiction treatment. Sleep restoration is a core pillar of our recovery model.

6

Evidence-Based Therapy Stack

CBT, DBT, EMDR, ACT, Motivational Interviewing, experiential therapy, and trauma-informed counseling — not one-size-fits-all.

7

4-Stage Continuum of Care

Structured step-down from PHP to IOP to OP to Alumni. No gaps in care, no abrupt endings — gradual, supported independence.

8

Family Therapy (Together We Heal)

A dedicated 6-session family program that educates loved ones, rebuilds trust, and addresses codependency patterns.

9

NP Evaluation Within 24 Hours

Every new client receives a nurse practitioner evaluation within 24 hours of intake — medication plans start immediately, not weeks later.

10

16 Insurance Providers Accepted

We accept Horizon, Aetna, Cigna, BCBS, UHC, Tricare, and 10 additional major carriers. Free insurance verification available.

11

Sober Living Partnerships

Coordinated referrals to vetted sober living facilities in Bergen County for clients who need a structured living environment during treatment.

Your Gambling Recovery Journey, Week by Week

Gambling Addiction Treatment at Valley Spring follows a structured, four-phase model. Each phase builds on the last, moving you toward lasting sobriety with clinical support at every step.

1

Stabilization & Assessment

Weeks 1-2

Comprehensive clinical assessment, nurse practitioner evaluation within 24 hours, and development of your personalized medication plan. If appropriate, Naltrexone is initiated to manage gambling symptoms. Introduction to group therapy and orientation to the treatment structure. This phase establishes medical stability and therapeutic rapport.

2

Active Treatment

Weeks 3-4

Daily structured groups including CBT, DBT, and ACT. Weekly individual therapy sessions with your assigned clinician. Psychoeducation modules on gambling's impact on the brain chemistry, the neuroscience of craving, and relapse patterns. Experiential therapies and trauma-informed counseling address underlying causes of gambling use.

3

Integration & Step-Down

Weeks 5-8

Transition from PHP to IOP as you demonstrate stability. Focus shifts to real-life skill application — managing triggers at work, rebuilding family trust, and establishing sober routines. Family therapy through Together We Heal begins. Introduction to sober recreational activities and community-based recovery resources.

4

Maintenance & Aftercare

Weeks 9-12+

Step-down to OP or continued IOP with 1-2 sessions per week. Enrollment in the alumni program for lifelong support. External referrals to mutual aid groups, sober living if needed, and community mental health resources. Ongoing medication management and clinical check-ins. This phase has no end date — you stay connected as long as you need.

Inside Valley Spring Recovery Center

Our Norwood, NJ facility is designed to support focus, comfort, and healing. Located at 830 Broadway — just 20 minutes from the George Washington Bridge.

Group Therapy Room
Individual Counseling Suite
Clinical Assessment Office
Meditation & Wellness Space
Client Lounge
Outdoor Recovery Garden

Ready to Start Gambling Treatment?

Admissions are open 24/7. Call us or verify your insurance online in under 60 seconds.

Your Gambling Treatment Team

Our multidisciplinary team includes licensed clinicians, psychiatric providers, and certified counselors — all specializing in gambling and substance use disorders.

HI

Henry Iwuala

Clinical Director

Oversees all clinical programming and treatment protocols. Ensures every client's care plan aligns with evidence-based best practices for gambling addiction recovery.

MO

Dr. Michael Olla

Medical Director

Board-certified physician supervising all medication-assisted treatment, including Naltrexone prescribing for gambling disorder. Conducts psychiatric evaluations.

CT

Clinical Therapists

Licensed Counselors & Social Workers

Our team of licensed therapists delivers individual counseling, group facilitation, family therapy, and trauma-focused treatment. 8:1 client-to-staff ratio ensures personalized care.

Recognizing Gambling Disorder

Gambling Addiction develops on a spectrum. Understanding where you or a loved one falls can guide the right level of treatment.

Mild Gambling Disorder
  • Drinking more or longer than originally intended
  • Unsuccessful attempts to cut down or control use
  • Spending excessive time obtaining, using, or recovering from gambling
  • Continued drinking despite knowing it causes problems
Moderate Gambling Disorder
  • Strong cravings or urges to use gambling
  • Failing to fulfill work, school, or home responsibilities
  • Continuing to engage in harmful behavior despite social or relationship problems
  • Giving up important activities or hobbies because of gambling
  • Drinking in physically hazardous situations
Severe Gambling Disorder
  • Tolerance — needing more harmful behavior to achieve the same effect
  • Withdrawal symptoms: shaking, sweating, anxiety, nausea
  • Drinking despite physical health consequences (liver, heart, GI)
  • Drinking despite known psychological harm (depression, anxiety)
  • Complete loss of control over quantity and frequency

Recognizing the Signs Is the First Step

If you or someone you love is showing signs of gambling addiction, we are here to help. Free, confidential assessments available now.

The Scope of Gambling Addiction in NJ

Gambling remains the most commonly abused substance in New Jersey. These numbers underscore the urgent need for accessible, evidence-based treatment.

~2,500
Gambling-related deaths in New Jersey annually
18%
of NJ adults report binge drinking (SAMHSA/NSDUH)
Top 5
Bergen County ranks among top NJ counties for gambling-related ED visits

Sources: SAMHSA National Survey on Drug Use and Health; NJ Department of Health; Bergen County Health Dept.

Insurance We Accept for Gambling Treatment

Valley Spring Recovery Center accepts 16 major insurance providers. Our admissions team will verify your benefits and explain your coverage before you begin treatment.

Horizon BCBSNJ
NYSHIP
Aetna
Anthem
Cigna
BCBS
Amerihealth
Oscar
Meritain
Fidelis
UnitedHealthcare
UMR
Tricare
ComPsych
Highmark
Magellan

Not sure if your insurance covers gambling treatment? Our admissions team will verify your benefits for free — usually within 15 minutes. No obligation, no pressure. We handle everything with your carrier directly.

Verify My Insurance

Valley Spring Gambling Treatment at a Glance

Key metrics that define the quality and accessibility of our gambling addiction treatment program.

8:1
Client-to-Staff Ratio
24hr
NP Evaluation After Intake
16
Insurance Providers Accepted
24/7
Admissions Available

How to Help a Loved One With Gambling Addiction

Watching someone you care about struggle with gambling addiction is painful. You may feel helpless, frustrated, or unsure what to say. The most important thing to understand is that gambling disorder is a medical condition — not a moral failing. Your loved one is not choosing to engage in harmful behavior; their brain chemistry has been altered by chronic gambling exposure.

Steps You Can Take

  • Educate yourself about the disease model of addiction. Understanding the neuroscience behind gambling dependence removes blame and creates space for compassion.
  • Avoid enabling behaviors. This means not making excuses for their drinking, not covering their responsibilities, and not providing financial support that sustains their use.
  • Set boundaries with compassion. Clear, consistent boundaries protect your well-being while communicating that you love the person but cannot support the behavior.
  • Offer specific help, not ultimatums. Instead of "You need to stop drinking," try "I found a program that has evening sessions so you can still work. Can I call with you?"
  • Attend family therapy. Valley Spring's Together We Heal program is a 6-session workshop open to family members 18+ — no requirement that your loved one be enrolled.
  • Join a monthly family support group. We host Zoom groups for families navigating addiction. Learn about codependency, self-care, and communication strategies.

You do not have to navigate this alone. Call (201) 781-8812 to speak with our admissions team about how to approach a loved one about treatment.

What to Do If Your Loved One Refuses Gambling Treatment

Refusal is common — and it does not mean the situation is hopeless. Most people who enter treatment do so after multiple conversations, not after one. Understanding the stages of change can help you stay patient and strategic.

Strategies That Work

  • Professional intervention. A trained interventionist can guide a structured conversation that communicates love, concern, and consequences. We can recommend local intervention professionals.
  • Motivational interviewing techniques. Rather than arguing or lecturing, ask open-ended questions: "What do you think about how things have been going?" This approach reduces defensiveness.
  • Boundary setting. Sometimes the most effective motivator is a firm boundary — "I love you, but I can't continue living this way." Boundaries must be followed through consistently.
  • Understand the stages of change. Pre-contemplation (not thinking about change) → Contemplation (considering it) → Preparation → Action → Maintenance. Each stage requires a different approach.
  • Know when to call 911. If your loved one is experiencing gambling withdrawal symptoms (seizures, severe tremors, confusion, hallucinations), this is a medical emergency. Call 911 immediately.

Valley Spring offers same-day admissions and can admit clients within 24-48 hours after detox. When your loved one is ready, we will be ready too.

Families Heal Together

Together We Heal is a free 6-session family workshop. Open to families 18+ — your loved one does not need to be enrolled at Valley Spring to participate.

Gambling Treatment in Bergen County, NJ

Valley Spring Recovery Center is located in Norwood, NJ — just 20 minutes from the George Washington Bridge. We serve clients from across northern New Jersey and the greater NYC metro area.

Valley Spring Recovery Center

830 Broadway, Norwood, NJ 07648
Bergen County, New Jersey
Phone: (201) 781-8812
Hours: Admissions open 24/7
Travel: 20 minutes from the George Washington Bridge

Cities We Serve

Norwood Hackensack Paramus Englewood Teaneck Fort Lee Ridgewood Fair Lawn Bergenfield Closter Westwood Mahwah Ramsey Saddle Brook NYC Metro

Frequently Asked Questions About Gambling Treatment

Answers to the questions we hear most from individuals and families considering gambling addiction treatment at Valley Spring.

Key signs include drinking more than intended, failed attempts to cut down, neglecting responsibilities, relationship problems caused by drinking, tolerance (needing more to feel the same effect), and withdrawal symptoms when not drinking. If gambling use is causing recurring problems in any area of life, it is time to seek a professional evaluation. Valley Spring offers free, confidential assessments by phone — call (201) 781-8812.
The typical treatment journey at Valley Spring spans 8-12 weeks, though each client's timeline is different. Partial Care (PHP) typically lasts 4-6 weeks, followed by a step-down to IOP for another 6-8 weeks. After IOP, clients move to outpatient therapy and our alumni program, which has no end date. Treatment length is determined by clinical progress, not a fixed calendar.
No — Valley Spring is an outpatient treatment center and does not provide medical detox on-site. However, we coordinate directly with trusted detox facilities in the region and can admit clients within 24-48 hours after they complete detox. If you are currently physically dependent on gambling, we will help you find a safe detox placement and ensure a seamless transition into our care.
Valley Spring uses FDA-approved medications for gambling disorder managed by our psychiatric team under Dr. Michael Olla. Our primary MAT options include Vivitrol (injectable naltrexone, administered monthly), oral Naltrexone (daily), and Topamax. These medications reduce cravings and block the rewarding effects of gambling. We do not use methadone. Every medication decision is individualized based on your clinical profile.
Yes — this is one of our key differentiators. Our IOP programs run from 6-9 PM on weekday evenings, specifically designed for working professionals. You attend treatment after your workday. Our Virtual IOP also provides evening scheduling for clients who cannot commute. Partial Care (9 AM - 3 PM) does require daytime availability, but many clients use FMLA or short-term disability to attend without losing their employment.
Yes. Under the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act, most insurance plans are required to cover substance use treatment at the same level as medical/surgical care. Valley Spring accepts 16 major insurance carriers including Horizon, Aetna, Cigna, BCBS, UnitedHealthcare, Tricare, and more. Our admissions team will verify your specific benefits — usually within 15 minutes — and explain your coverage before you start. Verify your insurance online.
Valley Spring uses a multi-modal therapy approach tailored to each client. Core modalities include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to identify and change thought patterns driving gambling use, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) for emotional regulation, EMDR for trauma processing, Motivational Interviewing to strengthen internal motivation, experiential therapy, and contingency management. Individual sessions occur weekly; group therapy is daily during PHP and IOP.
Absolutely. Family involvement is a core part of our treatment model. Together We Heal is a 6-session family workshop that educates loved ones about addiction, rebuilds trust, and teaches healthy communication. We also host monthly family Zoom groups open to the public. Family members 18+ can participate regardless of whether their loved one is currently enrolled at Valley Spring. Individual family therapy sessions are also available as part of the treatment plan.
Recovery does not end at discharge. After completing IOP, clients step down to outpatient therapy (1-2 sessions per week, typically virtual) and enroll in our alumni program. Alumni benefits include monthly community events, sober recreational activities, recovery workshops, and ongoing access to clinical check-ins. We also coordinate referrals to sober living facilities, mutual aid groups, and community mental health resources. Our alumni program has no time limit — support continues as long as you need it.
Several things set us apart: an 8:1 client-to-staff ratio (one of the lowest in NJ), evening IOP specifically for working professionals, a board-certified addiction psychiatrist managing all MAT, one of only 10 sleep specialists in NJ working in addiction treatment, a structured 4-stage continuum (Restore, Activate, Accelerate, Thrive), small group sizes under 10, same-day admissions, and a family program open to the public. We are CARF accredited, ranked #1 Best of New Jersey, and hold an A+ BBB rating.

Your Recovery Starts Today

Admissions are open 24/7. Same-day assessments available. Call now or verify your insurance — we will walk you through every step.