Apply for State Certification as a Problem Gambling Treatment Counselor

OAPGG has been working with the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (ODMHSAS) to develop a state certification for problem gambling counselors. State certification was approved by the legislature earlier this year, and ODMHSAS has outlined the certification process in Title 450: Chapter 75; Standards and Criteria for Certified Problem Gambling Treatment Counselors. Chapter 75, along with the application packet, is included on the OAPGG website.

Beginning September 1, OAPGG will accept certification applications. The certification will be numbered so get your application in early to get the lowest number possible.

Certifications will be processed beginning November 1, 2021.

What is the criteria for becoming certified?

Criteria includes:

• a current LPC, LMFT, LADC, Psychologist, or LCSW license
• completion of basic training for problem gambling
• participation in the case consultation group
• documented supervised experience in the treatment of problem gambling

Can those with an ICGC license be grandfathered?

Yes, in order to be certified, those with a current or lapsed ICGC license will need to demonstrate 10 hours of gambling specific CEUs for the past year.

Can those in a private practice be certified?

At this time, certification is only available to those in state and tribal facilities. If you are in a private practice and interesting in being certified, please contact Kenzie Simpson at ksimpson@oapgg.org to be notified of certification opportunities at a later date.

What is the fee for certification?

For more information, as well as Chapter 75 (the official ODMHSAS document that outlines the certification process), please visit the OAPGG website. If you have any questions, please contact Kenzie Simpson (ksimpson@oapgg.org).