Pennsylvania Problem Gambling Helplines
If gambling has stopped being fun or is causing harm to you or someone you know, free and confidential help is available around the clock in Pennsylvania.
Overview
You do not need to be in crisis to call. Helpline counselors can connect you with treatment, self-exclusion programs, financial counseling, and family support. All calls are confidential and never reported to sportsbooks or the PGCB.
In Detail
Helpline counselors are trained to assess gambling-related concerns, provide immediate emotional support, and refer callers to local treatment providers across PA. Treatment for PA residents is funded by the Compulsive & Problem Gambling Treatment Fund — financed by a portion of the state's sports betting and casino tax revenue. There is no income limit and no insurance requirement to access free counseling.
Practical Steps
- Call 1-800-GAMBLER or 1-800-848-1880 (PA Council on Compulsive Gambling) — both lines operate 24/7.
- Counselors will ask about the situation; nothing is reported to sportsbooks, employers, or family members.
- You will be referred to a local treatment provider if interested. Free counseling is available statewide for PA residents.
- For non-crisis support, also explore the GamTalk peer community (gamtalk.org) and Gam-Anon family support groups.
Resources
- National Council on Problem Gambling — 1-800-GAMBLER — www.ncpgambling.org
- Pennsylvania Council on Compulsive Gambling — 1-800-848-1880 — www.pacouncil.com
- PA Problem Gambling Helpline (DDAP) — 1-800-848-1880 — www.ddap.pa.gov
- Gamblers Anonymous — www.gamblersanonymous.org
- Gam-Anon (family support) — www.gam-anon.org
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline — 988
Frequently Asked Questions
Are helpline calls confidential?
Yes. All calls to 1-800-GAMBLER and the PA Council on Compulsive Gambling are 100% confidential. Nothing is reported to sportsbooks, the PGCB, employers, or family members.
Is treatment free in PA?
Yes. PA residents can access free counseling through providers funded by the Compulsive & Problem Gambling Treatment Fund. No insurance required, no income limit.
Can a family member call on behalf of someone else?
Yes. Helplines accept calls from family members and friends seeking advice on how to support a loved one.
What about online support?
GamTalk (gamtalk.org) is a free 24/7 peer community. Gam-Anon offers virtual family support groups. NCPG has a chat option at ncpgambling.org.