Gambling Help and Treatment Resources in Massachusetts
If you are an adult in Massachusetts and gambling is worrying you, a fast first step is to call or text 1-800-MY-RESET (1-800-697-3738), the National Problem Gambling Helpline. You can also call or text us at 646-721-2056 and we will help you look.
How to get help in Massachusetts
- Call, text or chat with 1-800-MY-RESET to ask about local gambling services.
- Call your insurance and ask about coverage for gambling disorder treatment.
- Find a Gamblers Anonymous meeting, in person or online, for this week.
- Put a barrier in place today: self-exclusion, blocking software, or handing off cards.
State and national gambling support contacts
Massachusetts resource
State help resources
Find Massachusetts services on NCPG's help by state pageListing a resource does not mean a partnership, an opening, or insurance acceptance. Phone lines were checked online, not test-called.
Sources checked September 28, 2026
1-800-MY-RESET (1-800-697-3738), National Problem Gambling Helpline
Call, text or chat online, free and confidential, around the clock in all 50 states. Run by the National Council on Problem Gambling, an independent service. It helps loved ones too. Message and data rates can apply to texts.
ncpgambling.org988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
Call or text 988 if you feel unsafe or hopeless. 24/7.
988lifeline.orgGamblers Anonymous
Free peer support meetings, in person and online.
gamblersanonymous.orgGam-Anon
Free peer support for spouses, family and friends.
gam-anon.orgFree, confidential treatment referral, 24/7: 1-800-662-4357.
samhsa.gov
Treatment and counseling options
Treatment support in Massachusetts
The Gaming Commission uses a Public Health Trust Fund to support gambling prevention and treatment.
Contact the program to confirm eligibility, openings and any charges.
Sources checked September 28, 2026
These are the kinds of help that exist. Ask each provider directly what they offer in Massachusetts.
Outpatient counseling
Regular sessions with a licensed counselor or therapist, usually weekly. You keep living at home and working.
Intensive outpatient (IOP)
Several sessions a week for a few hours each. More structure than weekly counseling, still living at home.
Residential treatment
You live at a program for a period of time. Gambling-specific residential programs are limited, so ask directly.
Telehealth
Counseling by video or phone. Confirm the provider is licensed to serve someone physically located in your state.
Peer support
Groups like Gamblers Anonymous run by people with lived experience. Free and valuable, but not clinical care.
Recovery coaching
A coach helps with goals, routines and accountability. Coaching is not therapy and is not a replacement for licensed care.
Peer support and recovery meetings
Gamblers Anonymous holds free meetings across the country and online. Search for Massachusetts meetings at gamblersanonymous.org.
Resources for families and loved ones
Gam-Anon offers free meetings for spouses, parents and friends. The national helpline helps loved ones too. Our Family Command Center has guides and tools you can use today.
Self-exclusion in Massachusetts
Massachusetts has voluntary exclusion for casino gambling and sports betting. Check the current program page for options and terms.
Where to start: Massachusetts program. Enroll through the official program. We do not take self-exclusion applications.
One enrollment may not cover every venue, tribal property, out-of-state or unlicensed site. Read the current terms first.
Sources checked September 28, 2026
Selected gambling information for Massachusetts
The exclusion program covers casino gaming and sports betting.
This is not a full list of what is legal. Gambling laws change often.
Sources checked September 28, 2026
Funding history (2023)
State agency problem gambling allocation, 2023
$22.6 million
Historical budget figure from the NAADGS 2023 report, rounded as published. It is not actual spending, 2026 funding, or a measure of how much help is available today.
Costs, insurance, and public assistance
Costs depend on the provider and your plan. Peer meetings are free. Some states support free or lower-cost gambling services, but a free helpline does not mean every referred treatment is free. Ask about fees before scheduling, and call your insurer before starting treatment.
“The money I lost does not have to decide what I do next.”
“I can be in debt and still be moving forward.”
“I do not need one more bet. I need a next step.”
Which one sounds like you?
“I keep trying to win it back.” +
Chasing losses is one of the most common patterns in gambling problems. The next bet feels like the fix, but it usually makes the hole deeper. That is not a character flaw, it is how the cycle works.
Next step: Pause access tonight: log out, delete the app, or hand your cards to someone you trust.
Open the 3 A.M. Plan →“I have not hit rock bottom.” +
You do not need a financial disaster to ask questions. If gambling has started to worry you, that is reason enough to look at support.
Next step: Take a private self-check and see where you stand.
Recovery Readiness Map →“I am worried about someone I love.” +
You can get support for yourself even if the person gambling is not ready. Boundaries protect you and are not a punishment.
Next step: Start with the family guides and tools.
Family Command Center →“I need help, but I still have to work.” +
Many options fit around a job: evening outpatient sessions, telehealth, and online peer meetings. Schedules and availability depend on the provider.
Next step: Ask any provider directly about evening or virtual times before booking.
Ask us to help you look →“I stopped gambling, but I am still overwhelmed.” +
Stopping is a big step, and the money, relationships and routines left behind still need attention. Feeling heavy after stopping is normal.
Next step: Pick one area to work on this week, like a money plan.
Money and debt guides →“I returned to gambling after stopping.” +
A return to gambling does not erase the progress you made. It is information about what was hard. Reconnecting quickly matters more than blaming yourself.
Next step: Tell one supportive person today and look at what led up to it.
Read recovery stories →What could I protect by not gambling?
Enter an estimated amount you could choose not to spend on gambling each week. Use money actually lost or spent, not the same dollars recycled through an account.
This estimates money you could redirect if you avoid this level of gambling spending. It does not calculate existing debt, interest, bills, or future financial outcomes. Stopping gambling prevents additional gambling losses. Existing debts, interest, fees, and living expenses still need a plan.
Frequently asked questions about Massachusetts
How can an adult in Massachusetts find gambling help?
Call or text 1-800-MY-RESET (1-800-697-3738) to reach the National Problem Gambling Helpline. You can also call or text us at 646-721-2056 and we will help you look.
Is there publicly funded gambling treatment in Massachusetts?
The Gaming Commission uses a Public Health Trust Fund to support gambling prevention and treatment. Contact the program to confirm eligibility, openings and any charges.
How does self-exclusion work in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts has voluntary exclusion for casino gambling and sports betting. Check the current program page for options and terms. Enroll through the official program, not through this site.
Can I use online counseling while living in Massachusetts?
Possibly. Confirm the counselor is licensed to serve clients physically located in Massachusetts before you start.