The Massachusetts Technical Assistance Center for Problem Gambling Treatment (M-TAC) is funded by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MDPH), Office of Problem Gambling Services (OPGS) and managed and administered by Health Resources in Action (HRiA).
M-TAC provides capacity building and technical assistance (TA) services for outpatient treatment and recovery programs and providers across the Commonwealth.
With Health Resources in Action’s history of developing and implementing statewide capacity building programs and the Division on Addiction at Cambridge Health Alliance’s research expertise on addiction and gambling disorder, M-TAC is guided by public health principles, built on data and evidence, and focused on equity. It understands the intersection of problem gambling and co-occurring substance use and mental health disorders, and creates capacity building assistance in alignment with such intersections.
Our TA focuses on the sharing of expertise, instruction, skills training, and management consulting services. We offer:
- Open to clinicians and allied health professionals
Our goal is to offer support and guidance to programs providing outpatient treatment services in an effort to build their capacity to screen, assess, and treat problem gambling.
Massachusetts Problem Gambling Specialist Certificate
The Massachusetts Problem Gambling Specialist Certificate (MA PGS) is the official gambling treatment certificate of the MA Department of Public Health.
The MA PGS Certificate recognizes professional experience, training, and understanding of gambling disorder, as informed by the DSM-V among clinicians who work in the field of addictions (social workers, medical providers such as physicians and nurses, licensed mental health counselors, case managers, and LADC counselors). It was created to build the capacity of these certified and licensed providers to identify, screen, assess, and treat gambling disorder among their clients.
Providers can learn how to address the needs of clients experiencing problem gambling and earn CEUs through all free M-TAC trainings, M-TAC online courses and Project Build Up (PBU) Learning Academies. First time applicants need 30 CEUs to apply for this certificate and those renewing it need 15 CEUs.
Learn more about the requirements and how to apply.
Order free materials
The Massachusetts Health Promotion Clearinghouse, operated by HRiA, provides health promotion materials to providers in the Commonwealth to build awareness about problem gambling. Materials are available in many languages and free for service providers and Massachusetts residents. From wallet cards to workbooks, these resources help people understand the risks, how to make changes, and how resources like the Problem Gambling Helpline can support them.
Need help?
Massachusetts residents who need immediate support related to problem gambling can call 1.800.327.5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org to chat with a trained Specialist. Calls are free and confidential, and Specialists are available 24/7.
