Gambling addiction rehabilitation

Gambling addiction treatment in Randburg, Johannesburg

Gambling addiction can damage finances, relationships, and mental health before many people recognise it as an addiction that requires treatment.

Houghton House’s inpatient gambling rehab programme simultaneously treats both the gambling addiction and the mental health conditions that drive it.

Understanding gambling addiction

Gambling addiction, also known as compulsive gambling, gambling disorder, or ludomania, is a recognised behavioural addiction.

Gambling disorder is characterised by a persistent and uncontrollable urge to gamble, despite the negative consequences. Over time, gambling stops being a choice and becomes a compulsion that willpower alone cannot overcome.

Clinically, gambling disorder shares many traits with substance use disorders (SUD). Both are medical conditions that affect the brain areas responsible for reward, motivation, and impulse control. The act of gambling releases dopamine in a way that mirrors the effects of drugs or alcohol, reinforcing the cycle of craving and relapse.

Like other addictive disorders, gambling addiction rarely exists in isolation. Many gambling addicts also struggle with co-occurring mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, or impulse-control disorders.

When does gambling become a problem?

It can be difficult to recognise when gambling has crossed the line from recreation to addiction. Using criteria from the Canadian Problem Gambling Index, problem gambling may be indicated when:

You bet more than you can afford to lose
You gamble with larger amounts to get the same feeling of excitement
You return to gambling to win back lost money
You borrow money or sell possessions to gamble
You feel anxious, guilty, or depressed about your gambling
Others have criticised your gambling behaviour
Gambling has caused financial stress or conflict in your relationships.

If several of these signs feel familiar, it may be time to seek treatment for a gambling problem. Our team can provide a confidential assessment and help you work out your next steps.

The rise of online gambling in South Africa

Online gambling addiction has grown rapidly in South Africa in recent years, fuelled by smartphones and easy access to gambling sites. Online casinos, sports betting sites, and mobile gaming apps operate around the clock, making it increasingly difficult for problem gamblers to set boundaries or take breaks.

This constant accessibility can intensify the addiction cycle, encouraging impulsive betting and financial loss. Many people report gambling at work, late at night, or during stressful moments — times when self-control is at its weakest.

At Houghton House, we recognise that online gambling presents unique challenges. Our treatment approach helps clients understand their digital triggers, rebuild healthy routines, and develop strategies to manage technology use as part of long-term recovery.

Treating the cause, not just the behaviour

Treatment that targets only the gambling behaviour, without addressing what drives it, leaves the conditions most likely to trigger relapse intact.

As one of the only rehabilitation centres in South Africa licensed as both a psychiatric hospital and an addiction treatment centre, Houghton House treats gambling addiction and any co-occurring mental health conditions simultaneously, without referring patients elsewhere.

In practice, this means a psychiatrist assesses every patient on admission and remains involved throughout treatment. Where the clinical team identifies depression, anxiety, trauma, or another qualifying condition alongside the gambling addiction, they treat both within the same programme.

What to expect from rehab for gambling addiction

Our inpatient rehab programme for gambling addiction offers a packed schedule that integrates therapy, education, and personal development. Every component is designed to help patients understand their addiction and practise the skills that reduce relapse risk.

A multidisciplinary team of psychiatrists, psychologists, counsellors, and support staff develops each patient’s treatment plan and adjusts it as treatment progresses.

The treatment programme includes:

Comprehensive intake assessment
Personalised treatment plan
Individual gambling counselling sessions
Group gambling therapy sessions
Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)
Dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT)
12-step work
Relapse prevention work
Mindfulness and stress management
Family involvement and relationship rebuilding
Psychiatric care and medication management

A full daily programme, away from triggers

Gambling is accessible in ways most substance addictions aren’t. Online platforms are available at any hour, on any device. A residential rehab programme removes that access entirely, which is a significant part of what makes the first weeks of recovery workable.

Patients are engaged in therapeutic activity from 6 am to 8 pm each day. The schedule is consistent: therapy, group sessions, psychoeducation, and biokinetics run to a fixed timetable. For many people in early recovery from gambling, unoccupied time carries real risk. A full day of therapeutic activity removes much of that pressure.

How the programme addresses gambling thinking

Compulsive gambling involves specific patterns of thinking that sustain the addiction: the belief that a win is overdue, that losses can be recovered, that control is possible despite the evidence.

CBT targets those distorted thinking patterns directly and is central to the Houghton House programme.

The clinical team adapts its treatment approach to each patient based on their individual progress and needs. Individual counselling, group therapy, and 12-step work run concurrently throughout treatment.

Recovery support beyond inpatient care

Recovery from gambling addiction extends well beyond the end of inpatient care. Patients who complete the programme continue through our aftercare programme, which includes daytime and evening sessions, group counselling, and ongoing therapy.

For patients who aren’t ready to return home independently, our halfway house provides stable accommodation and continued support while they rebuild daily routines. Both options keep patients engaged and supported through the transition out of residential care.

Medical aid cover for gambling addiction treatment

Gambling disorder isn’t classified as a Prescribed Minimum Benefit (PMB) in South Africa, which means medical aids aren’t required to fund it directly.

However, most people who develop a gambling addiction also have a co-occurring condition such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or another qualifying psychiatric condition covered under psychiatric PMBs. In such cases, treatment may be funded through your scheme when it’s provided in an accredited psychiatric facility.

Houghton House’s dual-licensing as both a rehabilitation centre and a private psychiatric hospital means our patients can claim for psychiatric services for qualifying conditions even if medical aid won’t cover treatment for gambling addiction directly.

We work closely with all major medical aid schemes, including Discovery Health, GEMS, Bonitas, Fedhealth, and Momentum, among others. Contact our admissions team with your medical aid details, and we’ll confirm what cover is available under your plan and manage pre-authorisation on your behalf.

For those without medical aid

No medical aid? Free help for gambling addiction is available.

National Responsible Gambling Programme

Get free gambling counselling and support through the National Responsible Gambling Programme (NRGP).

The NRGP provides free, confidential counselling and referral services for individuals and families affected by problem gambling across South Africa.

Contact the NRGP

Here’s how Houghton House helped people like you

    
 
 
        
   Ndleleni Maqubela 
 20 August 2026
 
 
  I am writing this letter with a heart full of relief and deep gratitude. When our son informed us that he was struggling with drug abuse and had decided to enter rehab, it came as a complete shock to us as parents. We were entirely unaware of what he was quietly going through. Though he caught it at an early stage, taking that step on his own required immense courage. We researched and found a few rehab houses, but through God's grace we viewed and liked what Houghton House offered. Savanna was with us throughout the process. From the moment he walked through your doors, your team embraced his decision with compassion, respect, and exceptional care. The receptionists, Rob, Siphokazi, the nurses and everyone involved went an extra mile to serve him, provided him with the guidance, clarity, and tools necessary to stop this struggle in its tracks before it could take a heavier toll on his life. Seeing him take ownership of his future and having the dedicated staff walk alongside him has meant everything to us as parents. As I write this my son has completed his 12 steps and he is busy with 3 sponsees. He attends both in-person and online meetings and heavily involved in service. You saved my son from sinking deeper into addiction, and for that, our family will be forever grateful. Thank you for the incredible, life-changing work that you do every day. With warm regards and deepest appreciation. Ndleleni
  
 
       
   Famille Ntambw 
 4 August 2026
 
 
  I cannot thank Houghton House enough for the incredible work they do in changing lives. A member of my family spent more than three weeks in your care, and we were impressed by the professionalism of your team, the excellent communication, and the cleanliness of the facility. Most importantly, my family member felt respected, supported, and genuinely cared for throughout the programme. They left with a renewed sense of hope and a strong commitment to making positive changes in their life. Thank you to everyone at Houghton House for the compassion and dedication you show every day. I highly recommend your services.
  
 
       
   Lizmari Joubert 
 25 May 2026
 
 
  I can highly recommend Houghton House. This month I’m celebrating 16 months clean from drugs, and I’m truly grateful for the support and care I received there. The counselors helped me heal from years of trauma and guided me through one of the most difficult times in my life. Robert and the staff were always friendly, supportive, and encouraging. Dr Ali showed so much compassion and dedication, with daily check-ups and genuine care for my recovery journey. I struggled with addiction for several years, and Houghton House helped me rebuild my life and heal emotionally. I will always be thankful for the role they played in my recovery. Highly recommended.
  
 
       
   zandile munjanja 
 17 May 2026
 
 
  2 years ago I came to Houghton House feeling lost, broken, and hopeless because of my addiction. However, through inpatient treatment, aftercare, RM, and the unwavering support from all the staff at HH I found hope, faith, and courage even when I struggled to find it in myself. I was comforted when I needed support, but I was also called out on my dysfunction, unhealthy patterns, and even my delusions when I couldn’t see reality clearly. At times it was difficult to hear, but that tough love helped ground me and pushed me toward growth. Aasiyah especially had a way of speaking sense to me even when I resisted it, and today I’m deeply grateful for that honesty and care. Along the way, I found meaning in life again, rebuilt relationships with loved ones, and regained control of my life. The way my life is today, 2 years ago I would’ve never imagined it possible to recover, heal, and forgive myself, especially because recovery has never been linear for me. There were moments of resistance, fear, chaos, growth, while all learning to slowly chose myself along the way. Recovery is possible🤍
  
 
       
   Darshan Mani 
 30 March 2026
 
 
  I had a wonderful experience with Ash the occupational therapist. She is incredibly professional, patient, and genuinely caring. She took the time to understand my needs and created a personalized approach that made a real difference. I felt supported every step of the way and saw great progress. Highly recommend her to anyone looking for dedicated and compassionate care.
  
 
       
   SizSaidSo 
 29 March 2026
 
 
  Houghton House taught me so much about myself. Understanding the disease of addiction is one thing learning about yourself and the power of the 12 step program is something else entirely. Its one of the best decisions I made for myself. Theres magic and healing in those four walls! 🔥
  
 
       
   k13ran hoban 
 28 March 2026
 
 
  Houghton House, Please excuse me if this all sounds overly earnest. Today I am 90 days Sober, looking back I recall my first few days wondering how I would ever last the 4 week programme. I made it!! Long may it continue. For anyone considering admission into HH and recovery - it is a tough path and choice, cushioned with tough truths but, continued drinking for me was always going to be a tougher road. You will meet many different people, just like yourself - just 'normal' like you and I. We are not bad people, just normal people with a uniqueness of character that makes us different. Learning how to feel normal is the thing I am most grateful for today as I celebrate with another cup of tea. Doing normal stuff around the house for my family. Thank you. Regards, Kieran Hoban
  
 
       
   Philip P 
 25 March 2026
 
 
  A short review cannot capture what my time at Houghton House means to me. When I arrived, I was broken, disconnected, and unsure if recovery was even possible. What I found here was not just treatment for substance abuse, but a space where real healing and self acceptance could begin. One of the biggest shifts for me came through understanding that recovery is not a quick fix. It’s a life long process. And for me, continued and long-term treatment made all the difference. Staying, working through the layers, and not rushing the process is what allowed something real to take root in my life. A very special mention to Aasiyah, her care, consistency, and ability to hold space without judgment changed the way I see myself and my recovery. She challenged my views and saw in me the potential to recover long before I believed it was possible myself. She helped me understand that this isn’t about perfection, it’s about showing up, staying honest, and doing the work every day. She has saved my life and I am forever grateful. Houghton House is not just about getting clean. It’s about learning how to live again. It’s about rebuilding a relationship with yourself, finding meaning, and reconnecting to something deeper. It is a place where the hopeless find hope again. To anyone out there struggling, there is hope. Even if you don’t believe it right now. Even if you’ve tried before. We do recover. And places like Houghton House make that recovery possible.
  
 
       
   Yvonne Kgame 
 16 February 2026
 
 
  Dear Rob and Houghton House Family, Heartfelt gratitude for the exceptional service of your compassionate team. The environment is not only safe and clean but also accessible and friendly, making it an ideal space for healing. We're thrilled to have experienced the remarkable rehabilitation work you do, utilizing the Dual Diagnosis methodology. Our loved one has returned home calm and thriving, a testament to your team's dedication and expertise. Your guidance and support have been invaluable, and we're grateful for the encouragement to stay committed to the journey. The family support program was a game-changer, awakening us to new perspectives on addiction, its roots, and impact. The multidimensional approach taught us so much, revealing new paradigms and understanding. We're truly grateful to see transformation in our lives, step by step. We commit to sharing our learnings and experiences, and we're honored to refer others to your care. Your work is making a lasting difference. Highlights of our journey include understanding: - The intersection of Substance Use Disorders and Mental Disorders - Addiction as a family disease and its brain impact - The crucial role of family in treatment - The power of 12-Step Programs in recovery - Self-care as a necessity, not a luxury - Effective communication strategies for healing - The value of group support and community (like our family group chat .) - The impact on children of addicts - Risk factors and more Wishing Houghton House continued success and blessings for many years to come. May God bless you abundantly 🙏. Forever Grateful, Busisiwe 16 February 2026
  
 
       
   David Briskham 
 16 February 2026
 
 
  My name is David and I'm an addict! I left Houghton House a year ago having be a patient for over a year. Initially i was supposed to be admitted for 3 months but I kept relapsing due to not putting in the effort to stay clean. I was not the easiest of patients and yet none of the counselling team gave up on me culminating in breaking my stubbornness and denial. I received first class support during some very dark times. My love and respect for Houghton House is immense and I am now over one year clean which I never thought would be possible. A big thank you to all the staff at Houghton House who all played a role in turning my sense of hopelessness into hope! 😅 DB
  
 
       
   Judith Plescia 
 3 February 2026
 
 
  Hello Alex and Dan ... just a note to thank you once again. I started my sobriety journey back in January 2003 and I've just celebrated my 23rd Thanksgiving last month. I still attend meetings but only on Zoom. I thank God every day for my gift of sobriety. With much love ❤️.
  
 
       
   Lungile Lulu Stimela 
 6 November 2025
 
 
  I am currently a patient at Houghton House and I would like to express my appreciation to Rob Beck. Rob’s lectures are an exceptional part of my rehabilitation experience. He demonstrates a remarkable ability to present psychological concepts with clarity, depth, and genuine passion. His teaching style is both engaging and empathetic, creating a learning environment that encourages openness, critical thinking, and personal reflection. Rob possesses a rare balance of professionalism and warmth, allowing us all to feel safe, respected, and understood. His insights consistently connect theory to real-life application, making each session meaningful and transformative. It is evident that he has a deep understanding of human behavior and a sincere commitment to helping others grow. I believe that Rob’s knowledge, communication skills, and empathy will make him an outstanding psychologist in the future.
  
 
       
   Jeff Lopes 
 5 November 2025
 
 
  If you ever in doubt about Rehab, don’t be - the recovery team at HH is a world class outfit! With a 360 degree approach of extremely professional health care - from detox to exit plans, the 30 day in patient program will provide the best possible foundation to your recovery! I entered rehab as the only option and leave feeling like I have many options, the program is deeply profound and enlightening and offers a new perspective other than active addiction, IF you fully embrace it from day 1! Be the change, and stick with the winners! God bless you all team HH - thank you 🙏🏼
  
 
       
   Linda Woollands 
 29 October 2025
 
 
  Excellence feedback from Robert, he was my point of contact when my son was admitted to Houghton House. He reassured me daily he was in the best place and offered co.fort and support. I don't think us as a family could have come through this without him.
  
 
       
   Loyiso Page Tshangana 
 6 August 2025
 
 
  Houghton House Rehab is really the best Rehab that helped me to overcome addiction and depression. I was referred to Houghton House Rehab by my sister after struggling for years with addiction and depression. At first I was reluctant but took the advice. I was hopeless having hit the rock bottom. The staff there is very professional, caring, supportive and friendly.  My first day was not easy and I thought I was not going to cope but with the help of the staff I  started to enjoy to program because of the support I received from the whole Houghton House family. The sessions were very helpful and I started to see changes in me. The environment is very friendly, neat. Sessions, lectures, Step Work meetings were excellent and well organized. The programme is clear and also objective. Its a team work. The food is excellent rooms are neat and they are checked on daily basis. I struggled with my Step work but because of the support I got everything got easy. Thanks to the Houghton House Team( Drs, Psychologists, Addiction Specialists, Nurses, Support Team and Management.  I am proud of you. Houghton House Rehab did not only help me it also helped my family. I am 4 months clean now and also depression free. At first I was in denial and I didn't want to accept that I was an addict. I left primary and went to GAP(secondary) I continued to work on the program until I left.  Yes my life has changed for the better I can see the difference between now and then. Thank you Kgotso, Assiayh, Siphokazi, Angela, Reggie, Tracy, Tessa, Rob, Mo, Lelo, Lucas, Alex, Nursing staff, Management and Kitchen staff. May God bless the whole Houghton House family. The treatment was good. You are a wonderful family. You changed my life for the better. Alex would come during our lunch time at primary to greet us one by one and ask if we were doing well and coping. To me that was good for a person in management to do that. Thank again. This programme is still working for me because I work it.
  
 
       
   Alison Prentice 
 4 August 2025
 
 
  This facility and it's staff helped change my life. Can't express my gratitude in words. I highly recommend it
  
 
       
   Natasha Nortje 
 15 July 2025
 
 
  To anyone that needs help.  I can guarantee you, you will definitely get the help and support at Houghton House.   I will definitely recommend them to friends and family.  They helped me grow and deal with all the issues I needed to recover, and start my healing process.   Thank you Houghton House.   - Natasha
  
 
       
   Moeder Simelane 
 9 June 2025
 
 
  The Houghton House is the best and very helpful in dealing with people admitting there. The stuff is excellent and not to mention How Excellent Angela the psychologist who dealt with my brother is. She did an outstanding job and having family therapy sessions was also helpful. We are on a healing journey as family and really grateful for The Houghton House!
  
 
       
   Thozama Mabandla 
 9 June 2025
 
 
  Houghton House Rehab is truly the best. It not only helped my husband on his journey to recovery, but also supported me every step of the way. The care, guidance, and compassion we received shaped our lives for the better. We are deeply grateful.”
  
 
       
   Paul Rodgers 
 30 May 2025
 
 
  Houghton House is totally Awesome. The facility is clean and modern and the food excellent. More importantly, the therapists are superb and amazing and awesome. Combined with the excellent group therapy I can say they got me clean and I plan to stay that way.
  
 
       
   Rabia Khan 
 28 May 2025
 
 
  This place is most definitely helpful, it not only helps the people who go there to seek help but it also helps family members heal as well. I’ve seen nothing but positivity come out of peoples experiences at Houghton house. People who enter lost find themselves in this place and even come out being better versions of themselves. I am highly impressed with their services, patience and kindness towards the patients and their families as well. I would definitely recommend this place to anyone who is seeking help and suffers with an addiction problem.
  
 
       
   Jason Martin Hartman 
 22 May 2025
 
 
  Rob is a BOSS RA! Houghton House was great as well!
  
 
       
   Grant Forshaw 
 4 February 2025
 
 
  I was in Houghton in 2010, and I must say, the team there, through thick and thin really did save my life and help me turn around for the better, I recently celebrated my 14 year sobriety, and it would have never been possible if not for Houghton, thank you again from the bottom of my heart, life lessons I learnt there, and friends I made are more valuable than words can describe.
  
 
       
   Susan Felgate 
 28 June 2024
 
 
  My daughter is currently at Houghton House Rehabilitation and Mental Health Centre, and I couldn't be more impressed. The professional staff and their fantastic program have made a significant difference. I wish I had known about Houghton House earlier, as my daughter was at a different rehab earlier this year. As a parent, finding the right rehab is crucial, and I highly recommend Houghton House.
  
 
       
   Hilda Gonlag 
 15 May 2024
 
 
  My experience at Houghton House was a life changing experience.Thank you to all the councillors and staff for all their support and guidance to make my recovery such a success. I will defenitely carry on my recovery at Houghton House I recommend this faciity as the best in Gauteng. Now I'm living in the  Sober House and am able to live a Sober independent life in a beautiful home with an amazing garden living life to the full.
  
 
       
   Reynard Pretorius 
 11 April 2024
 
 
  Great facility, awesome program. One day at a time it works if you work it. Highly recommend anyone struggling with addiction. Thank you Houghton House.
  
 
       
   Thanusha Saha 
 1 April 2024
 
 
  My sister had done much research regarding a rehab for me, and after seeing many places she was told that HOUGHTON House is the best in South Africa after seeing the place she decided that this would be the best place for me I arrived at HOUGHTON homes in full withdrawal. I was completely broken. I was powerless in my life had become unmanageable. My first two weeks at HOUGHTON House was extremely difficult. I felt I didn’t belong and I didn’t fit in and I wasn’t sure if this program was going to work for me. After two weeks, I realized that fighting the system is not going to help so I joined I listened to all the suggestions, advice, and I-part took in all the classes, lectures and sessions With me, becoming more willing open minded things became much easier The first and most important thing I learned was that I had a disease Which caused my addiction I was supposed to spend 21 days at primary, but I extended for six weeks out of my own choice, because I was learning so much at this point about my self addiction, and my journey has a whole And then moved onto secondary Which is known as GAP My six days here became three months and all out of choice my choice this is probably the best decision of my life I found myself I learned so much about myself and others About this disease called addiction I was given tools to cope with all kinds of situations relating to addiction I continue to see my psychologist counselors and lectures This only made me stronger and healthier, mind, body and soul I have tried many times in the past 30 years to stop using on my own, but you know avail I had a near death experience and this brought me to HOUGHTON House I decision I will never regret for the rest of my life. I could never have done this on my own today. I am just over five months clean. I have never felt better in my entire life, mind, body and soul I work this program every day I have my five pillars in place and I use this program in my daily life It truly does work if you work it Because of HOUGHTON House, I have been given a second chance at life Thank you to all the psychologist counselors, lectures staff, and most importantly my family, for the support in this journey of mine I could not have done it without any of you My name is Thanusha and I am an addict
  
 
       
   Laurel Human 
 18 October 2023
 
 
  I am 14 months clean and serene - thank you Houghton House!  My life has changed immeasurable since I was there in September 2022.  I now live in freedom from active addiction and can look towards my future with hope.  I am more grateful than words can express; the staff, with their knowledge, compassion and sometimes tough love, continue to be a big part of my recovery.  Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
  
 
       
   Jabulani Chikondo 
 18 October 2023
 
 
  My stay at Houghton House was a turning point in my life
  
 
       
   Jaques Liebenberg 
 11 July 2022
 
 
  If you are looking for an 5 star resort or hotel I think you should look somewhere else but if you are serious about your problem and recovery there is no other place I would recommend. Thanks guys you changed my life and I will always be great full for that.
  
 
       
   Tshepo Nkopane 
 12 June 2022
 
 
  The best
  
 
       
   Bangu Masisi 
 9 June 2022
 
 
  I will always be thankful to Houghton House for making my son see light again since 2020. February was his 2nd year being clean and keeps to online and personal group meetings regularly. There has been a remarkable positive change in his life and he’s got to know himself better than before practicing 12steps!! His life has completely changed for the better and thanks again 🙏🏾🙏🏾
  
 
       
   Corrie Munro 
 9 June 2022
 
 
  Could not have asked for a better place for help! Thank you Houghton House you guys are the BEST.
  
 
       
   Andrew Hammond 
 25 March 2022
 
 
  Excellent rehab facility in Johannesburg. Provided me with excellent help with my addiction. Wouldn’t be around today without their help
  
 
       
   Craig Couzens 
 22 March 2022
 
 
  Highly recommend 👌
  
 
       
   Douglas Walker 
 22 March 2022
 
 
  My nephew had a great outcome
  
 
       
   Syd Knowles 
 22 March 2022
 
 
  Thanks for helping a veteran
  
 
       
   Rahul Jayawardena 
 5 October 2021
 
 
  Excellent routine structure and support system that enabled me to focus on my journey to recovery
  
 
       
   Jason Mccall 
 5 October 2020
 
 
  A caring place with extremely good attention to detail. Friendly staff. 100% recommend them!
  
 
       
   Ruaan Pelser 
 19 June 2020
 
 
  Excellent insight into mindset of person in addiction. Counsellors strike great balance between empathy and realism. Patients/counsellees are treated with respect but not coddled, which is vital. If someone like me (multiple admissions and relapses) can find my way again, anyone can.
  
 
 
 
  
 
   Google rating score: 4.5 of 5, based on 116 reviews

Frequently asked questions about gambling addiction

How do I know if I need gambling addiction help?

If your gambling is causing financial stress, damaging relationships, or affecting your emotional wellbeing, it may be time to seek help. Warning signs include chasing losses, lying about gambling, or feeling anxious and guilty after gambling. Our team can provide a confidential assessment to determine the best next step.

The South African Responsible Gambling Foundation (SARGF) also has a self-assessment quiz that can help you determine whether or not you have a gambling problem.

How do I stop gambling?

Stopping gambling is about more than just making a decision to quit gambling — it’s about changing the thoughts, emotions, and circumstances that drive the behaviour. For most people, this requires structured support.

Start by acknowledging the problem and talking to a professional or trusted person. Limiting access to money, online betting sites, and gambling venues can help reduce temptation in the short term, but lasting change often depends on addressing the deeper causes of the addiction.

At Houghton House, treatment helps clients identify their triggers, rebuild self-control, and learn new coping strategies for stress, anxiety, and boredom — the emotions that often fuel gambling. Through therapy, peer support, and ongoing aftercare, recovery becomes not just possible, but sustainable.

If you or someone you care about needs immediate help, you can contact Houghton House for a confidential assessment at +27 11 787 9142, call our 24/7 helpline at +27 79 770 7532, or reach the National Responsible Gambling Programme (NRGP) helpline on 0800 006 008 for free support.

How is gambling addiction treated at Houghton House?

We treat gambling addiction through an integrated programme that combines psychological therapy, education, and relapse prevention. Clients take part in individual counselling, group therapy, CBT and DBT sessions, mindfulness training, and family support meetings — all within a structured and supportive inpatient setting.

Is gambling addiction treated like substance addiction?

Yes. Behavioural addictions such as gambling affect the same brain reward systems as substance addictions. Treatment therefore focuses on identifying triggers, changing thought patterns, fostering accountability, and addressing underlying mental health issues like anxiety or depression.

How long does gambling addiction rehab take?

The duration of treatment depends on each client’s needs and progress. Most people begin with 24 days in our primary care facility, followed by six days in our secondary care or step-down facility. This can be extended to 18 days if needed.

What happens after completing the programme?

After inpatient treatment, clients can continue recovery through our aftercare programme, outpatient treatment, and halfway houses. These resources provide ongoing therapy, relapse prevention, and community support to help maintain long-term stability.

Does Houghton House offer help for family members of people with a gambling addiction?

Yes. Family involvement is part of the treatment model. Within the first week of admission, a family session is arranged with the patient’s treating psychologist. Patients may make calls from the facility landline, and family members are welcome to visit on weekends during visiting hours. Houghton House also runs a Thursday evening family support meeting, which family members can attend independently.

For those supporting a loved one with a gambling problem, Gamblers Anonymous South Africa also runs Gam-Anon meetings, a peer support group for the families and partners of people with gambling addiction.

Is there a gambling addiction clinic in Johannesburg?

Yes. Houghton House operates as a residential gambling addiction clinic within our broader inpatient rehabilitation facility in Johannesburg. Patients receive treatment alongside our other inpatient programmes, with clinical staff experienced in treating behavioural addiction as well as any co-occurring psychiatric conditions.

If you or a loved one is struggling with gambling addiction, help is available. Our team can guide you through assessment, admission, and treatment with professionalism and compassion.

Call us today on +27 11 787 9142 or reach out via our contact page for a free, confidential telephonic evaluation.