In this presentation, we will explore the interconnected world of cryptocurrencies, non-fungible tokens (NFTs), and decentralized finance (DeFi). We’ll discuss how these digital innovations are transforming global financial systems and fueling speculative behaviors. Additionally, we will highlight the specific risks these technologies pose for individuals vulnerable to problem gambling, review studies linking these activities to gambling disorders, and provide guidance on identifying individuals whose behaviors may indicate gambling-related issues. The goal of the presentation is to inform, equip, and empower attendees to navigate this complex intersection of technology, finance, and addiction.
Join us on July 29th from 10:30-12:00 pm for a 90 minute virtual training with Glenn Yamagata.
In this presentation, we will explore the interconnected world of cryptocurrencies, non-fungible tokens (NFTs), and decentralized finance (DeFi). We’ll discuss how these digital innovations are transforming global financial systems and fueling speculative behaviors. Additionally, we will highlight the specific risks these technologies pose for individuals vulnerable to problem gambling, review studies linking these activities to gambling disorders, and provide guidance on identifying individuals whose behaviors may indicate gambling-related issues. The goal of the presentation is to inform, equip, and empower attendees to navigate this complex intersection of technology, finance, and addiction.
CE is pending approval.
This project is funded in whole or in part by the Illinois Department of Human Services Division of Substance Use Prevention and Recovery.
Glenn Yamagata
Glenn Yamagata has more than 26 years of experience in leveraging data to inform public policy and help companies effectively manage and utilize their data assets. He has spent the last 8 years working on problem gambling issues and has co-authored more than 15 presentations, reports, and papers. He has an MPhil. in Economics and an MA in Statistics from Yale University. He is the Executive Director of the Oregon Council on Problem Gambling and is on the Board of Directors of Voices of Problem Gambling Recovery, Inc.
Join this timely and essential CEU seminar exploring gambling disorder as a serious and growing public health crisis. Designed for mental health professionals, educators, public policy leaders, and concerned community members, this presentation will unpack the science behind gambling addiction through the lens of ASAM criteria. Learn how online gambling is reshaping risk, why “responsible gaming” falls short, and how a public health framework offers real solutions. Discover actionable strategies for intervention, treatment, and advocacy as we shift the conversation from personal responsibility to systemic change.
Join us on July 15th from 10:30 - 12:00 pm CST for a 90 minute webinar with Dr. Harry Levant, the Director of Gambling Policy with the Public Health Advocacy Institute (PHAI) at Northeastern University School of Law.
Gambling addiction is rapidly emerging as one of the most overlooked yet devastating behavioral health issues of our time. With the explosive rise of online gambling and sports betting, communities are facing a new and complex public health crisis—one that is often misunderstood, underdiagnosed, and undertreated.
This in-depth continuing education seminar offers a comprehensive look at gambling disorder through the lens of the ASAM Criteria, equipping participants with the knowledge and tools to better recognize, assess, and address this increasingly prevalent addiction. Whether you're a licensed clinician, public health professional, educator, policymaker, or advocate, this presentation will deepen your understanding of how gambling affects individuals and communities—and what can be done about it.
We will explore:
The neuroscience and diagnostic criteria behind gambling addiction
Why gambling disorder is not just a personal issue, but a systemic public health concern
How industry tactics like “responsible gaming” messaging obscure deeper harm
The gaps in current prevention, treatment, and recovery support services
How to advocate for and implement effective, evidence-based responses
Attendees will come away with a clearer framework for understanding gambling disorder within the ASAM dimensions, practical strategies for client care, and a renewed sense of urgency to advocate for public health-based solutions.
Join us for this powerful session and become part of the movement to shift the conversation—from blame to care, from stigma to science, and from silence to action.
CE is pending approval.
This training is sponsored in whole or in part by the Illinois Department of Human Services Division of Behavioral Health and Recovery.
Harry Levant, LP.D, MA PCC, ICGC-I, JD
Dr. Harry Levant is Director of Gambling Policy with the Public Health Advocacy Institute (PHAI) at Northeastern University School of Law. He holds a doctorate in law and public policy from Northeastern University where his research focuses on developing a public health approach to prevent gambling-related harm and gambling disorder. He is also an Internationally Certified Gambling Counselor (ICGC-I) and mental health therapist in private practice and concentrates his practice treating people and families struggling with gambling disorder.
Dr. Levant also holds a master’s in professional clinical counseling from La Salle University and a juris doctorate from Temple University School of Law. He is a member of numerous professional organizations including the American Counseling Association, the Pennsylvania Counseling Association, Chi Sigma Iota National Honor Society for Counselors, and Lawyers Concerned for Lawyers of Pennsylvania.
Dr. Levant is a public health advocate, and he recently testified before the United States Senate Judiciary Committee. He also regularly appears on television and radio addressing the prevention and treatment of gambling disorder. His work has recently been featured on CBS Sunday Morning, CBS 60 Minutes, CNN, and the NBC Nightly News. He is the author of the law review commentary “Upon Further Review, the NFL Gambling Strategy is a Risk to Public Health” and co-author with Professor Richard Daynard and Professor Mark Gottlieb of the Boston Globe op-ed article, “Massachusetts Makes a Losing Bet on Gambling.”
Harry is also a gambling addict in recovery, having made his last bet on April 27, 2014. On that day, gambling addiction brought him within seconds of taking his life. Prevention of harm is the best form of treatment. In his role as Director of Gambling Policy at PHAI, Harry is helping to lead the effort to develop a comprehensive public health approach to regulate the gambling industry and prevent public harm.
The Advanced Training in Problem Gambling is a 2 Day comprehensive virtual program designed for mental health professionals seeking to deepen their expertise in this evolving field. Sessions on January 23rd and January 30th will feature 6 key voices on issues surrounding problem gambling.
Join us for 2 days, January 23rd and 30th, for 6 total educational sessions totaling 10 hours of training.
The Advanced Training in Problem Gambling is a comprehensive virtual program designed for mental health professionals seeking to deepen their expertise in this evolving field. This training covers essential topics, including emerging trends in problem gambling, cutting-edge treatment options, and advanced discussions on complex cases and co-occurring disorders. Participants will gain valuable insights into the latest research, innovative intervention strategies, and specialized approaches tailored to the unique needs of individuals impacted by problem gambling. This training is ideal for counselors, therapists, and social workers looking to stay at the forefront of problem gambling treatment and support.
The course is broken into two days, January 23rd and 30th.
January 23rd, 2025
9:30 - 11:30 am Dr. Michelle Malkin
11:30-12:00 pm Lunch
12:00-2:00 pm Dr. Serena King
2:00 - 3:00 pm Dr. Timothy Fong
January 30th, 2025
10-11:30 Keith Whyte
11:30-1 TBD
1:00-1:30 Lunch
1:30-3:30 Dr. Anto Bonci
Attendance at both days is encouraged but not required. Daily attendance is required for the entire session to receive continuing education credit for that day. CE accreditation is pending approval.
The Advanced Training in Problem Gambling is a comprehensive virtual program designed for mental health professionals seeking to deepen their expertise in this evolving field. This training covers essential topics, including emerging trends in problem gambling, cutting-edge treatment options, and advanced discussions on complex cases and co-occurring disorders. Participants will gain valuable insights into the latest research, innovative intervention strategies, and specialized approaches tailored to the unique needs of individuals impacted by problem gambling. This training is ideal for counselors, therapists, and social workers looking to stay at the forefront of problem gambling treatment and support.
Now available as an on-demand training!
The Advanced Training in Problem Gambling is a comprehensive virtual program designed for mental health professionals seeking to deepen their expertise in this evolving field. This training covers essential topics, including emerging trends in problem gambling, cutting-edge treatment options, and advanced discussions on complex cases and co-occurring disorders. Participants will gain valuable insights into the latest research, innovative intervention strategies, and specialized approaches tailored to the unique needs of individuals impacted by problem gambling. This training is ideal for counselors, therapists, and social workers looking to stay at the forefront of problem gambling treatment and support.
January 23rd, 2025
9:30 - 11:30 am Dr. Michelle Malkin
11:30-12:00 pm Lunch
12:00-2:00 pm Dr. Serena King
2:00 - 3:00 pm Dr. Timothy Fong
This training has been accredited for 5.0 hours of CEU for the following categories: COUN II, PREV II, CARS II, CODP I or II or III, PCGC I or II, CCJP II, CRSS I or II, CPRS I or II, MAATP II, CFPP II, CVSS II, LSW, LCSW, LPC, LCPC.
Serena M. King, PhD
Full Professor of Psychology and Clinical Researcher
Hamline University, Saint Paul, Minnesota
Dr. Serena King received her M.A and Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from the University of Minnesota and is a Licensed Psychologist. She is Full Professor of Psychology at Hamline University in St. Paul, Minnesota. She publishes widely in addiction, mental health, and gambling. Her published work has appeared in journals such as Addiction, Public Health, International Gambling Studies, Journal of Gambling Studies, and Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry. She has an active research and clinical agenda with a variety of collaborations in the areas of gambling, gaming disorder, and substance use. Dr. King was the recipient of an early career research grant from the International Center for Responsible Gaming and has served as a consultant for grants from the Minnesota Department of Human Services and the Minnesota Alliance on Problem Gambling. Dr. King has led several community-level and large-scale research studies on problem gambling, and developed prevention and outreach programs in the Southeast Asian Refugee community of Minnesota. She conducts trainings for individuals, agencies, and treatment centers. Dr. King developed the first formal collaboration between the Hazelden-Betty Ford Graduate School of Addiction Studies and an undergraduate psychology program and cares deeply about training the next generation of addiction and mental health professionals. She develops psychoeducational materials for community leaders and health care professionals in the areas of addiction, mental health, and problem gambling.
$i++ ?>
Michelle L. Malkin, JD, PhD
Michelle L. Malkin, JD, PhD, is an Assistant Professor of Criminal Justice and Criminology and the Director of the Gambling Research and Policy Initiative (GRPI) at East Carolina University. Dr. Malkin's research interests include a focus on gambling-related harms, gambling-motivated crime, and the gambling prevalence, behavior, and risk of historically oppressed, marginalized, and under-researched populations. Her research has been recently published in journals such as the Journal of Gambling Studies and the Journal of Gambling Issues. Her dissertation on Problem Gambling, General Strain Theory, and Gender received the 2022 Dr. Durand Jacobs Dissertation Award from the National Council on Problem Gambling. She received the 2024 ECU Early Trendsetter Award for her research on gambling-related issues and has also been awarded ECU's Innovator of the Month Award for her creation and copyright of the Gambling-Motivated Crime Diversion Checklist.
$i++ ?>
Timothy Fong, MD
Professor of Psychiatry, board-certified in Addiction Psychiatry
Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior at UCLA
Dr. Fong is a Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at the Jane and Terry Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior at UCLA.
Dr. Fong completed his undergraduate and medical school at Northwestern University in Chicago. He then came to UCLA and finished his residency in adult general psychiatry in 2002 and was the first accredited addiction psychiatry fellow at the UCLA Neuropsychiatric Institute (2002-2004).
He is the co-director of the UCLA Gambling Studies Program (UGSP). The purpose of this program is to examine the underlying causes and clinical characteristics of gambling disorder in order to develop effective, evidence-based treatment strategies.
Since 2009, he has been the director of the UCLA Addiction Psychiatry Fellowship, a one-year accredited program that provides clinical training in addiction psychiatry.
Finally, he is part of the faculty leadership of the UCLA Cannabis Research Initiative, a multidisciplinary effort to examine the full impact of cannabis on the body, mind and brain.
Join Dr. Michelle Malkin for an insightful and empowering virtual event focused on the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in relation to addiction and gambling. Research shows that LGBTQ+ people experience higher rates of addiction, including gambling disorders, compared to the general population. In this session, Dr. Malkin will dive deep into the intersection of LGBTQ+ identity and addiction, equipping participants with essential knowledge on LGBTQ+ identities and cultural humility. She’ll explore the latest research on why LGBTQ+ individuals are at greater risk, while highlighting practical tools to provide compassionate and effective care to LGBTQ+ clients and their families.
Join Dr. Michelle Malkin on June 24th from 10:30am -12:00 pm for an insightful and empowering virtual event focused on the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in relation to addiction and gambling. Research shows that LGBTQ+ people experience higher rates of addiction, including gambling disorders, compared to the general population. In this session, Dr. Malkin will dive deep into the intersection of LGBTQ+ identity and addiction, equipping participants with essential knowledge on LGBTQ+ identities and cultural humility. She’ll explore the latest research on why LGBTQ+ individuals are at greater risk, while highlighting practical tools to provide compassionate and effective care to LGBTQ+ clients and their families.
Whether you’re a mental health professional, counselor, or advocate, this session will enhance your ability to offer meaningful support and create a more inclusive environment for those in need.
Key Takeaways:
Understand LGBTQ+ cultural humility and its application in care.
Explore empirical research on the elevated risks of addiction and gambling disorders in LGBTQ+ individuals.
Learn strategies for effectively working with LGBTQ+ clients and their families.
Don’t miss this opportunity to deepen your knowledge and improve your practice in supporting the LGBTQ+ community!
CE Information: CE Application is pending approval by ICB.
This project is funded in whole or in part by the Illinois Department of Human Services Division of Substance Use Prevention and Recovery.
Michelle L. Malkin, JD, PhD
Michelle L. Malkin, JD, PhD, is an Assistant Professor of Criminal Justice and Criminology and the Director of the Gambling Research and Policy Initiative (GRPI) at East Carolina University. Dr. Malkin's research interests include a focus on gambling-related harms, gambling-motivated crime, and the gambling prevalence, behavior, and risk of historically oppressed, marginalized, and under-researched populations. Her research has been recently published in journals such as the Journal of Gambling Studies and the Journal of Gambling Issues. Her dissertation on Problem Gambling, General Strain Theory, and Gender received the 2022 Dr. Durand Jacobs Dissertation Award from the National Council on Problem Gambling. She received the 2024 ECU Early Trendsetter Award for her research on gambling-related issues and has also been awarded ECU's Innovator of the Month Award for her creation and copyright of the Gambling-Motivated Crime Diversion Checklist.
As Baby Boomers continue to age, many are finding gambling to be a common pastime in their later years. While often seen as a harmless leisure activity, gambling in older adults can sometimes lead to harmful behaviors, particularly when it goes unnoticed or is misattributed to other health conditions like dementia. Whether you’re a healthcare provider, social worker, or clinician, this training will equip you with the knowledge and tools to support older adults in managing their gambling behaviors, promoting healthy aging, and improving overall well-being.
Now Available on Demand!
Join us to learn from Jody Bechtold and Beth Mulvaney on understanding and addressing problem gambling in older adults.
This webinar offers seasoned clinicians a fresh perspective on older adults, particularly Baby Boomers, and their engagement in gambling as a leisure activity and a component of healthy aging. Gerontology social worker, Beth Mulvaney, joins us to provide critical insights into the primary care physician's role, the challenges of effectively screening for problematic gambling, and the interpretation of behaviors often misattributed to dementia. We'll explore why older adults are particularly vulnerable to developing gambling problems, the crucial warning signs to watch for, and practical screening methods. Participants will also learn about diverse treatment options tailored to this population, the significance of responsible gambling strategies, and how to effectively incorporate these techniques when working with older adults.
Objectives:
Participants will be able to:
Identify the risk factors for problem gambling in older adults.
Recognize the warning signs of problem gambling in older adults.
Screen for gambling problems in older adults.
Provide information on treatment options for older adults with gambling problems.
Educate older adults on responsible gambling strategies.
Develop strategies for incorporating responsible gambling techniques when working with older adults.
CE Information: Pending approval
This project is funded in whole or in part by the Illinois Department of Human Services Division of Substance Use Prevention and Recovery.
Jody Bechtold, LCSW, ICGC-II, BACC, IGDC, CGT
CEO
The Better Institute
Jody Bechtold, LCSW, ICGC-II, BACC, IGDC, CGT is a highly regarded gambling addiction expert working extensively across the globe with individuals, organizations, and associations. She is the CEO of The Better Institute, a group practice located in Pittsburgh. She is the co-author of The Gambling Disorder Treatment Handbook: A Guide for Mental Health Professionals (2021) and 2 chapters in the Social Workers Desk Reference v 4 on Gambling and Gaming Disorders, published in 2022. She serves as an Advisor to several startup and non-profits organizations including GamFin, Birches Health, and Seagulls Flock in the Philippines. She also serves as an Emeritus board member for the International Gambling Counselor Certification Board (IGCCB). Jody holds a master’s degree in social work from the University of Pittsburgh’s School of Social Work and has several certifications with the International Gambling Counselor Certification Board (ICGC-II, IGDC, BACC, CGT).
When Jody isn’t working, you can find her providing pet therapy with her dog, Hanna, and supporting her husband’s business, Pittsburgh Guitars. Please email jody@betterinstitute.com or visit www.BetterInstitute.com to contact Jody Bechtold, LCSW, ICGC-II, BACC, IGDC, CGT.
$i++ ?>
Elizabeth Mulvaney
Elizabeth Mulvaney earned her MSW from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and a BA in psychology from the University of Virginia.
As a Clinical Assistant Professor at the University of Pittsburgh School of Social Work, she focuses primarily on teaching within both the MSW and BASW programs. She holds clinical social work license in Pennsylvania and has 14 years practice experience as a gerontological social worker providing medical, care management, and program administration services, with experience in long-term care including behavioral care planning, dementia care, and end of life care.
Current research and practice interests include geriatric workforce development, interprofessional education, Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias, ethics, palliative care, and problem gambling prevention for older adults. Mulvaney served as the School’s first Coordinator for the Hartford Partnership Program for Aging Education from 2005-2011. She is currently the Chair of its Direct Practice Specialization and its Gerontology Certificates In Community. She serves on the board of the Southwestern Pennsylvania Partnership for Aging as it advocates for our communities to meet the needs of older adults, persons with disabilities and the people who work with them.
Join us for a moving and powerful virtual training featuring acclaimed poet and memoirist Jane Wong, author of Meet Me Tonight in Atlantic City, winner of the 2024 Washington State Book Award. In this deeply personal session, Jane will share her family's lived experience with her father's compulsive gambling addiction and reflect on the lasting intergenerational impact it had on her life.
Join us on May 28th, 2025 from 11-12:30 pm CST for a moving and powerful virtual training featuring acclaimed poet and memoirist Jane Wong, author of Meet Me Tonight in Atlantic City, winner of the 2024 Washington State Book Award. In this deeply personal session, Jane will share her family's lived experience with her father's compulsive gambling addiction and reflect on the lasting intergenerational impact it had on her life.
Blending the power of memoir, poetry, and cultural reflection, Jane will explore how storytelling offers a vital lens for healing and understanding within Asian American communities. She’ll read a poem and a passage from her memoir that delve into the emotional terrain of addiction, grief, and resilience — and open space for meaningful discussion and shared connection.
Whether you're a counselor, social worker, community leader, or someone impacted by gambling addiction, this training invites you to experience a felt, human approach to this critical issue through the power of story.
Key Takeaways:
Gain insight into the intergenerational effects of gambling addiction in Asian American families
Understand how poetry and storytelling can be used as tools for healing and advocacy
Engage in thoughtful dialogue around culturally informed approaches to support and recovery
Don't miss this unique opportunity to connect, reflect, and grow through the intersection of art and lived experience.
CEU Information: CE Application is pending approval by ICB.
This project is funded in whole or in part by the Illinois Department of Human Services Division of Substance Use Prevention and Recovery.
Jane Wong
Jane Wong is the author of the memoir Meet Me Tonight in Atlantic City(Tin House, 2023), winner of the 2024 Washington State Book Award. She also wrote two poetry collections: How to Not Be Afraid of Everything (Alice James, 2021) and Overpour (Action Books, 2016). She is the recipient of a Pushcart Prize and fellowships and residencies from the U.S. Fulbright Program, Harvard's Woodberry Poetry Room, Artist Trust, Hedgebrook, Ucross, Loghaven, the Barbara Deming Memorial Fund, and others. An interdisciplinary artist as well, she has exhibited her poetry installations and performances at the Frye Art Museum, Richmond Art Gallery, and the Asian Art Museum. She grew up in a Chinese American take-out restaurant on the Jersey shore and is an Associate Professor at Western Washington University.
As the U.S. faces potential economic downturns, state governments may increasingly look to gambling legalization and liberalization as a revenue source. But what does this mean for individuals struggling with problem gambling? Join Keith Whyte, a seasoned expert in responsible gambling, for an in-depth discussion on the lessons learned from previous economic swings and how we can prepare for the challenges ahead.
Navigating Gambling Policy in Tough Economic Times: Insights and Strategies
Join the Conversation with Brianne Doura-Schawohl, Keith Whyte, and Dave Wohl on May 15th, 2025 from 12-1:00 pm.
As the U.S. faces potential economic downturns, state governments may increasingly look to gambling legalization and liberalization as a revenue source. But what does this mean for individuals struggling with problem gambling?
While states might see a short-term increase in money, funding for problem gambling services is often one of the first things to get cut, leaving vulnerable populations at greater risk. At the same time, recreational gambling may decline, exacerbating state financial pressures. This complex intersection of economic change and gambling behavior demands our attention.
Join Dave as he facilitates a conversation betweenKeith and Brianne, who will utilize their years of experience working with both national and international organizations to highlight strategies for ensuring that responsible gambling programs remain effective and adequately funded, even in tough economic times.
Key Takeaways:
The impact of economic downturns on gambling behavior and policy
How state governments balance financial needs with public health concerns
Strategies to support and strengthen prevention, treatment, and responsible gambling initiatives
Collaborative approaches for state and community partners to thrive in challenging environments
But the conversation doesn’t end here—continue the discussion at the ICPG Conference two weeks later, where we’ll work together to develop sustainable strategies that will equip ICPG, community partners, and state prevention and treatment programs to not just survive, but thrive in a difficult economic landscape.
Don't miss this opportunity to learn, engage, and make an impact. Secure your spot today!
CEU Information: CE Application is pending approval from ICB.
This project is funded in whole or in part by the Illinois Department of Human Services Division of Substance Use Prevention and Recovery.
Keith Whyte
Keith Whyte has 30 years of national experience in promoting responsible gambling and preventing gambling addiction. Keith is a highly effective advocate, public speaker, policy analyst and program designer with extensive broadcast media experience. He is Founder & President of Safer Gambling Strategies LLC where he serves as a strategic advisor to U.S. and international organizations, NGOs and companies, including gambling operators, vendors, investors, state and tribal governments, on gambling-related issues. He provides expertise in advocacy, government relations, planning, program design, policy analysis, public speaking, fundraising, training, assessment and project management.
$i++ ?>
Brianne Doura-Schawohl
Brianne Doura-Schawohl is founder and CEO of Doura-Schawohl Consulting LLC, a boutique global government relations firm that specializes in problem and responsible gambling policy. She most recently served as Vice President of US Policy and Strategic Development for EPIC Risk Management, a global harm prevention consultancy, conducting work in over 24 countries. Prior to her role at EPIC, Brianne served as Legislative Director for the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG). Her experience includes over a decade of leadership in advocacy, public policy, government affairs, and communications.
Doura-Schawohl’s practice spans a wide range of work with executive and legislative branch officials and private sector stakeholders at the international, federal, state, and local levels of government. She has a history of achievements in State and United States Congressional legislative work, including a diverse portfolio of complex problem gambling policy issues. This continues to be invaluable in her ability to make a difference on behalf of people with gambling problems around the world.
Doura-Schawohl works with Congress and numerous state legislatures and regulators to provide expert advice on gambling policy. She continues to work with stakeholders on both sides of the aisle. Additionally, she has been featured in international, national, state, and local media, including ABC News, Bloomberg, CBS, CNBC, Forbes, ESPN, The Athletic, The Financial Times, The New York Times, The Washington Times, The Washington Post, The Guardian, CBC and others.
Brianne was named one of the top lobbyists in 2023 and 2022 by ‘The Hill’, named one of the top 100 lobbyists in 2022 and 2021 by the National Institute of Lobbying & Ethics (NILE), was featured as one of the 25 People to Watch in 2022 by Global Gaming Business, an honoree of the 2023 class of 40 under 40 Emerging Leaders in Gaming, is an honoree of the 2023-2024 ‘10 Women Rising in Gaming’ by Global Gaming Women and CDC Gaming Reports and named one of the top 10 most influential women in gaming in 2023 by iGB. In 2019 she was appointed as a member of the Digital Gaming Advisory Group for the State of Hawaii and continues to serve on various coalitions.
In 2020 and 2021 she was a guest faculty member for Seton Hall Law School at their Gaming Law, Compliance, and Integrity Program and continues to be a guest lecturer for the University of Minnesota, Global Institute for Responsible Sport Organizations, and at Bradley University. Doura-Schawohl presents at conferences and other public events on gaming policy across the United States, Europe, Canada, and Australia.
Doura-Schawohl serves on the Board of Directors for Kindbridge Behavioral Health and is a member of the leadership team of the NILE Next Gen Executives committee, a group committed to advancing educational & networking opportunities for the next generation of leaders within the government relations profession. She is a member of the National Council on Problem Gambling military affairs committee.
Mrs. Doura-Schawohl holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of Mary Washington. She is a proud military spouse and resides in Fairfax, Virginia with her family.
$i++ ?>
Dave Wohl
Executive Director
Illinois Council on Problem Gambling
Dave Wohl is a seasoned professional with a diverse background and over 30 years of experience in the healthcare industry. With a passion for improving patient care and healthcare systems, Dave holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Arizona State University, a Master of Science in Sports Medicine from West Virginia University, and an MBA from Western Governors University. Additionally, Dave is a Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives (FACHE), demonstrating a commitment to leadership excellence within the healthcare field. Before joining ICPG in 2023, Dave held various roles within healthcare, ranging from direct patient care to department management and hospital administration. With a wealth of experience, Dave brings a unique perspective and leadership to ICPG.
Join us for "Beyond the Tiles," a free virtual event designed to unpack the dual nature of Mahjong—as both a meaningful cultural practice and a potential gateway to gambling-related challenges.
Event Description:
Mahjong is more than just a game—it's a cherished tradition that brings families and communities together, offering mental stimulation, social connection, and cultural continuity within many Asian households. However, when money enters the mix or social pressures take hold, the line between healthy recreation and gambling harm can begin to blur.
Join us on May 21st, 2025 from 1-2:30 CST for "Beyond the Tiles," a free virtual event designed to unpack the dual nature of Mahjong—as both a meaningful cultural practice and a potential gateway to gambling-related challenges.
Led by experts from the Midwest Asian Health Association (MAHA), this training will shed light on how gambling is often culturally normalized, how stigma prevents many from seeking help, and how we can better support individuals and families through culturally sensitive prevention, dialogue, and education.
Objectives:
Understand when Mahjong crosses the line: red flags like chasing losses, compulsive play, or borrowing money
Explore gambling in Asian communities: stigma, normalization, and the mental health toll on immigrant families
Learn how to support our communities: outreach strategies, multilingual counseling, and open family communication
Featured Speakers:
Mimi Tsang, MPH – Program Manager at MAHA, public health advocate, and leader in substance use and gambling prevention across Chicago’s Southwest Side. Wenjia Dou, MSW – Program Coordinator at MAHA, community educator, and workshop facilitator on gambling awareness and youth prevention efforts in Asian American communities.
CEU Information: CE Application is pending approval by ICB.
This project is funded in whole or in part by the Illinois Department of Human Services Division of Substance Use Prevention and Recovery.
Mimi Tsang
Lead Coordinator for Substance Use Prevention & Gambling Awareness Program
Midwest Asian Health Association
Mimi Tsang, MPH is a Program Manager at Midwest Asian Health Association (MAHA). Mimi earned her Master of Public Health with a focus on Health Behavior Promotion from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. At MAHA, she oversees substance use, gambling, and bullying prevention programs, leading public health outreach and awareness across Chicago’s Southwest Side. Passionate about education and health equity, Mimi raises awareness about substance use and gambling-related harms while working to reduce stigma in underserved communities, including Asian American populations. She partners with youth, schools, and local organizations to deliver accessible resources, facilitate workshops, promote harm reduction, and support early prevention efforts.
$i++ ?>
Wenjia Dou
Program Coordinator
Midwest Asian Health Association
Wenjia Dou is a Program Coordinator at the Midwest Asian Health Association (MAHA), where she leads initiatives focused on substance use, gambling, bullying, and suicide prevention. She holds a Master’s degree in Social Work and Social Administration track from the University of Chicago. Wenjia has conducted multiple community workshops on gambling awareness for parents and adults, as well as addressing internet addiction and gambling behaviors in gaming among youth. Fluent in both English and Mandarin, she is passionate about promoting culturally responsive education and support within Asian American communities.
Self-exclusion programs are harm reduction tools that provide self-imposed time away from formal gambling activities. Numerous studies have examined the eDicacy of voluntary self-exclusion programs at reducing problem gambling behaviours as well as program satisfaction. However, few have measured changes in mental health or gambling related cognitions, beliefs, and attitudes in the early stages post-enrollment. Dr. McCormick will present the findings of a longitudinal research study with voluntary self-exclusion program participants in British Columbia, focusing on mental health and gambling-related constructs shortly after program enrollment and changes experienced over the first 12 weeks of program participation.
Join us on April 15th, 2025 with Dr. Amanda McCormick for "Mental health and gambling-related cognitions during the early stages of voluntary self exclusion" a 90 minute virtual training from 1-2:30 pm CST.
Self-exclusion programs are harm reduction tools that provide self-imposed time away from formal gambling activities. Numerous studies have examined the eDicacy of voluntary self-exclusion programs at reducing problem gambling behaviours as well as program satisfaction. However, few have measured changes in mental health or gambling related cognitions, beliefs, and attitudes in the early stages post-enrollment. Dr. McCormick will present the findings of a longitudinal research study with voluntary self-exclusion program participants in British Columbia, focusing on mental health and gambling-related constructs shortly after program enrollment and changes experienced over the first 12 weeks of program participation.
Following this session, attendees will be able to:
Describe the mental health profile of recently self-excluded gamblers;
Identify changes in mental health and gambling-related constructs during the early stages of self-exclusion from gambling;
Anticipate changes in gambling-related cognitions and urges during the early stages of self-exclusion from gambling;
Identify key intervention points and support needs during early stages of self exclusion from gambling.
CE Accreditation is pending approval.
This project is funded in whole or in part by the Illinois Department of Human Services Division of Substance Use Prevention and Recovery.
Amanda V. McCormick, Ph.D
Dr. Amanda McCormick is an Associate Professor in the School of Criminology and Criminal Justice, a Research Associate with the Centre for Public Safety and Criminal Justice Research, and the Commitment Leader for the Peace and Reconciliation Centre’s Community of Practice in Reducing Domestic Violence at the University of the Fraser Valley. Dr. McCormick has completed numerous research studies on problem gambling, most notably three longitudinal evaluations of the British Columbia Lottery Corporation's Voluntary Self-Exclusion program.