Gambling, Gaming and Technology Use (GGTU) is working to build a stronger mental health and addiction system in Ontario by supporting addictions and mental health service providers. The program provides training and education, develops digital tools and resources, and facilitates knowledge sharing related to problem gambling, video gaming and internet addiction.
Meet the GGTU team
Our team is a dedicated group that works collaboratively to strengthen service provider capacity to deliver evidence-based treatments that address gambling, gaming and technology use issues in Ontario. In this section, you will meet and learn more about the GGTU team.
In this instalment of Meet the Team, we introduce you to Hamza Ansari, Education Specialist.
Question: How long have you worked at CAMH? Tell us about your role in GGTU.
I started working at CAMH in November of 2021 as an Education Specialist. Previously, I completed student placements in different departments throughout the organization. In my role, I help develop online training and knowledge-sharing resources related to gambling, gaming, and technology use.
Question: What projects are you currently working on?
I am currently co-developing two intermediate online courses on cognitive-behavioural strategies for problem gambling. I am also supporting the Ontario Structured Psychotherapy program in developing learning objectives and activities for two webinars they are delivering to their stakeholders. In addition, I am working on a new framework for how our online trainings are evaluated and a needs assessment for our stakeholders.
Question: What excites you the most about working at CAMH?
Working with amazing, smart, and supportive colleagues who bring experiences from different sectors. Also, it’s nice knowing that the organization is striving to convert the latest research into practice to help serve people who struggle with mental health and addictions.
Question: What is one thing that your colleagues would be surprised to learn about you?
In my third year of university, I was a part of a student group that tutored students and used the money that we raised to help with development projects in emerging economies. I had the opportunity to help repair a school in rural Costa Rica that was damaged in an earthquake. We stayed in the school and one morning I woke up and my right foot was pretty swollen and bruised. At the hospital the doctor informed me that I was stung by a scorpion. After some medications my foot recovered. Unfortunately, I didn’t gain any superpowers but I think I gained a pretty cool story!
