In a recent interview with WLWT, Michael Ramirez, director of the Center for Addiction Treatment, outlined a suite of new treatment options designed to meet the unique needs of Cincinnati residents battling gambling addiction. The center, a longtime nonprofit serving the Greater Cincinnati area, says the programs combine evidence‑based therapy with faith‑centered counseling, recognizing the vital role of family and community in recovery.
Why gambling addiction matters to Cincinnati families
Gambling has become more accessible than ever, thanks to sports‑betting apps and online casinos. While many enjoy occasional wagers, the ease of digital betting can quickly turn a harmless pastime into a destructive habit. Ramirez noted that the financial strain often spills over into relationships, causing stress for spouses, children, and extended family members. “When a loved one loses control, the whole family feels the impact,” he said, underscoring the center’s commitment to a holistic approach that supports both the individual and their household.
Program options tailored to individual lifestyles
The center now offers three primary tracks:
- Outpatient counseling – Weekly sessions that fit around work or school schedules, allowing participants to maintain employment while receiving professional guidance.
- Residential treatment – A short‑term, intensive stay for those whose addiction has reached a critical point, providing 24‑hour support and structured recovery activities.
- Faith‑based support groups – Weekly meetings led by local pastors and trained volunteers, emphasizing prayer, Scripture, and moral accountability as tools for lasting change.
Each track incorporates cognitive‑behavioral techniques proven to reduce compulsive gambling behaviors, while also offering spiritual mentorship for those who seek it.
Community involvement and parental responsibility
Ramirez stressed that recovery is not a solitary journey. “Parents and spouses play a crucial role in setting boundaries, encouraging treatment, and modeling responsible financial habits,” he said. The center plans to host quarterly workshops for families, teaching practical steps such as budgeting, open communication, and recognizing early warning signs of relapse.
Support from local leaders
Mayor Aftab Pureval praised the initiative, noting that addressing gambling addiction aligns with the city’s broader public‑health goals. “Healthy families are the backbone of a strong community,” the mayor said in a statement. Local churches have also pledged to partner with the center, offering space for support groups and providing volunteers to assist with outreach.
How to get help
Residents can contact the Center for Addiction Treatment at (513) 555‑1234 or visit their website to schedule an intake assessment. The center accepts most insurance plans and offers a sliding‑scale fee structure for uninsured individuals, ensuring that financial barriers do not prevent access to care.
With these expanded services, the Center for Addiction Treatment aims to curb the growing tide of gambling‑related hardship in Cincinnati, reinforcing the city’s commitment to family stability, personal liberty, and faith‑guided healing.
Original reporting: WLWT Cincinnati — read the source article.
