New Jersey Conference to Explore Those Who HaveProblem and Compulsive Gambling Issues.

SOMERSET, N.J.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sept. 17, 1999--

More than 150 professionals who specialize in the treatment and prevention of addicted gamblers will gather September 23-24 to discuss the growing problem of compulsive gambling--including evidence indicating many of those with gambling

The conference will bring together educators, psychologists, social workers, clinicians and other professionals from throughout the United States who treat a variety of compulsive gamblers, including adolescents and senior citizens.

Sponsored by the Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey, Inc. the 17th Annual Statewide Conference on Compulsive Gambling will explore the topic, "Reaching Out and Growing: Preparing Professionals for the Millennium." The conference will be held at the Somerset Marriott, Somerset, New Jersey.

"The problem of compulsive gambling continues to explode throughout the nation as states seek to balance their budgets by adding more and more gambling opportunities and venues," said Ed Looney, executive director of the Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey. "The goal of our conference is to bring together experts who can help us to understand the impact of additional legalized gambling in our society."

Fred Andes, assistant professor of sociology and social work at New Jersey City University, will lead a discussion about one of the leading topics in the compulsive gambling field, assessment and treatment issues associated with substance abuse and compulsive gambling as "co-morbid disorders."

It is much more difficult to treat a person with two serious addictions--such as compulsive gambling and drug abuse--than it is to treat a person with only one of the addictions, according to Kevin O'Neill, deputy director and licensed clinical social worker.

While more research needs to be completed, it is estimated that up to 25% of the persons now being treated for substance abuse may have a gambling problem, according to Looney.

Other speakers and topics at the conference will include "The National Gambling Impact Study - Capitulation or Call to Action," presented by Bernie Horn, deputy director of the National Coalition Against Gambling Expansion; "National Issues and Problem Gambling," presented by Keith S. Whyte, executive director of the National Council on Problem Gambling; "Money Disorders Within the Compulsive Gambling Population," presented by marriage and family therapist Leonard S. Brazer of Denville. In addition, Paula Burns, deputy director of the Arizona Council will present "Women to Women - a workshop highlighting women's compulsive gambling issues.

There will also be sessions concerning compulsive gambling issues for people in prison, the role of Gamblers Anonymous programs, treatment programs for senior citizens, and the role of student assistance programs in high schools that have student gambling problems.

New Jersey Assemblyman Anthony Impreveduto will be presented the Council's Person of the Year award at the Council's annual banquet Thursday night, September 23.

For more information, please contact

The Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey, Inc.:

CCGNJ's office: 609-599-3299 ext. 13

CCGNJ's website: www.800gambler.org

E-mail: ccgnj@800gambler.org

New Jersey Helpline: 1-800-GAMBLER(TM)