# Referral to Treatment

Referrals to treatment services are provided to approximately three to five per cent of clients that complete the screening process.⁵

The types of referrals provided will vary depending on the level of severity, but can consist of:

• outpatient counselling/psychotherapy
• psychiatric treatment
• outpatient rehabilitation
• peer support
• community organizations
• social services
• helplines (for acute distress).

# Establishing Referral Procedures

The manner in which you provide referrals can impact whether a person will pursue specialized services. It is important to explore potential barriers that might limit their ability to pursue or access such services, including treatment preferences, costs, or lack of transportation.

It is also recommended that clients are provided with no more than one to three referrals, if possible. When clients are provided with a multitude of referrals it can often be overwhelming and/or difficult to know where to begin or who to contact first.

If a client is open to additional services, we have listed options that are Ontario-wide, as well as recommendations for finding local services.

# Provincial Supports

# Ontario-wide Services

• Problem Gambling and Technology Use Treatment Services at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health

  • The largest specialized program for problem gambling within Ontario.
  • Services are largely Toronto-based, with programming offered to those affected by gambling as well as their loved ones.
  • Offers specialized services for individuals whose gambling is problematic and has led to difficulties in other parts of their lives.
  • For more information visit the Problem Gambling and Technology Use Treatment Services website.
  • Additional resources can be found at www.problemgambling.ca.

• Canadian Mental Health Association

  • Provides community support services for those living with mental health challenges and providing education and mental health promotion services.
  • For more information, visit https://cmha.ca.

• Gamblers Anonymous

  • Support group for individuals who have a desire to stop gambling.
  • For more information and meeting times/locations visit www.gamblersanonymous.org (for meetings in Ontario, see ‘International Meetings’).

# Ontario-wide Helplines

• ConnexOntario
  • A 24/7 helpline that offers listening, support, and information about local services for problem gambling as well as for mental health and addictions.
  • For more information, visit https://www.connexontario.ca or call 1-866-531-2600.