Who We Are

The California Council on Problem Gambling (CalPG) is a nonprofit organization that works to reduce the harms associated with problem gambling. We support individuals, families, professionals, and communities by connecting them with help, education, training, and prevention resources, while working to raise public awareness.

Our programs include operating California’s 1-800-GAMBLER helpline and providing training, continuing education, and community outreach for individuals, families, professionals, and communities across California.

We maintain a neutral position on the legalization, expansion, or contraction of gambling. Through education, outreach, and advocacy, we work to improve access to help and increase protections for people affected by gambling-related harm.

You can learn more about us at www.calpg.org/about.

CCGC Certification Program

Since 2000, CalPG has trained and certified gambling counselors across California to meet the growing need for problem gambling treatment.

What is CCGC Certification?

The California Certified Gambling Counselor (CCGC) is a professional certification for individuals trained to treat problem gambling and support affected individuals and families. The program includes a 30-hour training, supervised counseling experience, and additional requirements to ensure competency in gambling disorder treatment.

Who Can Become a CCGC?

The CCGC program is designed for behavioral health and treatment professionals who want to expand their skills in working with problem gambling and affected individuals. To become certified, applicants must hold at least a bachelor’s degree and either an advanced license (e.g., BBS, APA) or a credential in a mental health or addiction field (e.g., CCAPP, CADTP). Credentialed applicants must also have a minimum of one year of clinical experience and work under licensed supervision.

Benefits of Becoming a CCGC

CCGC-certified counselors gain specialized training, receive referrals through the 1-800-GAMBLER helpline, expand their client base, earn a recognized credential, access free continuing education for renewal, and make a meaningful impact on individuals and families affected by problem gambling.

Why Get Certified?

Join a network of qualified professionals dedicated to treating problem gambling and improving lives across California.

Learn from Experienced Professionals

CalPG.online instructors bring experience from problem gambling treatment, prevention, research, public health, and related fields. Each instructor is selected for their subject matter knowledge, professional experience, and ability to provide practical information for behavioral health professionals and others who support people affected by problem gambling.

Help Services

Motivational Text Messaging

Messages tailored to your client's personal needs, designed to encourage them to enter/stay in treatment, maintain recovery, and more.

Self-Assessment Questions

Learn if your client may have a gambling problem. There are tests that tell you if they need help with gambling (these are not a substitute for speaking with a treatment professional).

Residential Treatment Facilities

State-funded no-cost inpatient treatment program where your client will live in a residential facility and receive around-the-clock care. Residential Care Facilities are available at no-cost if you live in California.

CE Approved Agencies

Join us in making a meaningful impact!

Our work is made possible through memberships and the generous support of donors. As a nonprofit, CalPG relies on these voluntary contributions to continue serving communities across California, and we are deeply grateful for those who help advance our mission.