GAMBLING ADDICTION HELP · CENTURION & ONLINE
When the bets stop being fun. Get your life and your money back.
Outpatient support for problem gambling, including sports betting and online casino apps. In Centurion and online across South Africa.
Confidential assessment · R750 · In person in Centurion or online
In short: Gambling disorder is a recognised condition, not a lack of willpower. Betting apps make it possible to gamble anywhere, any time, which is why it can escalate fast. Signs include chasing losses, hiding bets and borrowing to keep going. Urban Recovery helps as an outpatient with an assessment, the REBUILD programme, recovery coaching and free groups. You can also call the free NRGP counselling line on 0800 006 008, 24 hours a day.
Signs gambling has become a problem
- You chase losses, betting more to win back what you lost
- You need bigger bets to feel the same buzz
- You hide apps, bank statements or how much you’ve spent
- You borrow money, use credit or sell things to keep going
- You feel restless or irritable when you try to stop
- You think about the next bet at work or with your family
- Money has become a source of arguments at home
How Urban Recovery helps
Most treatment focuses on getting you to stop. We focus on what comes after: rebuilding your health, relationships, purpose and habits, so you build a life you don’t need to escape from. You stay at home and keep working while you do it.
- Assessment (R750, 45 minutes): a confidential conversation with Steven that looks at the whole picture and gives you a clear plan.
- REBUILD programme (8 months, one afternoon a week, R3 850 a month): 12 practical modules in a small group, in Centurion or on Zoom.
- Recovery coaching (R850 a session): one-on-one support with goals and accountability.
- Monday support groups (free): every Monday from 19:00 in Centurion or on Zoom, for you and the people who love you.
Practical first steps you can take today
- Delete betting apps and use the self-exclusion option on each betting site you use
- Ask your bank whether it can block gambling transactions on your cards
- Hand day-to-day control of your money to someone you trust, for a while
- Tell one person the truth about where things stand
- Call the NRGP on 0800 006 008, or book an assessment with us
Common questions
Is gambling addiction real?
Yes. Gambling disorder is recognised in the DSM-5 alongside substance addictions, and it works on the same reward pathways in the brain.
I don’t go to casinos. I just bet on my phone. Does that count?
Yes. Sports betting and casino apps are where most problem gambling happens now, because they’re always in your pocket. Read The casino in your pocket: when betting becomes a problem.
My partner is gambling. What can I do?
Protect your own finances first, and get support for yourself. Our Monday groups are free and open to partners and family, and Nanette offers recovery coaching for families. Read Helping or enabling? A guide for families.
What does it cost?
Assessment: R750 once-off. REBUILD programme: R3 850 a month for 8 months, or R25 500 once-off. Recovery coaching: R850 a session. Monday groups: free. See all treatment options.
Related reading
Not sure where to start?
Book a confidential assessment with Steven. You’ll leave with a clear plan, whichever option it points to. Or WhatsApp us on 076 402 7083.