Arizona Invests $350K in Peer-Based Recovery Program for Problem Gambling
Arizona is investing in a new approach to problem gambling, one that prioritizes connection and lived experience over traditional clinical settings.
A Growing Need as Gambling Access Expands In Arizona
The state is allocating about $350,000 to launch its first peer support and recovery services program for individuals affected by gambling-related harm. The initiative is being led by the Arizona Department of Gaming’s Division of Problem Gambling and comes as gambling access continues to expand, including five years of mobile sports betting that allows wagers to be placed instantly from a phone.
State officials say demand for help has been steadily rising.
“We do see numbers increasing as far as folks seeking treatment, seeking helpline support and other services,” said Elise Mikkelsen, director of the Division of Problem Gambling.
Following a competitive request-for-proposal process, the state awarded the contract to Dezerve Counseling LLC, which will develop and manage the program. Services will be free, confidential, and available statewide once the program launches.
Why Peer Support Can Break Through Where Treatment Often Doesn’t
The defining feature of the initiative is its peer-based model. Instead of starting with a clinician, participants will work with a Peer Support and Recovery Specialist, someone with firsthand experience recovering from problem gambling or supporting a loved one through it. Specialists will be trained and certified, but their lived experience is central to the program’s philosophy.
“When someone talks to a peer who has been there, shame and isolation is reduced,” Mikkelsen said. “People are more likely to seek help when they feel understood and not judged.”
The program is designed to complement existing treatment options and offer a lower-barrier entry point for those hesitant to seek clinical care. Support will be available in person, online, or by phone, and offered in both one-on-one and group settings. Participants do not need insurance or an existing treatment plan to take part.
Financial guidance will also be incorporated, acknowledging the economic strain that often accompanies gambling harm.
Beyond immediate support, the program aims to build long-term capacity by recruiting and training additional peer specialists to meet future demand. Programming is expected to begin later this year, with a full statewide launch planned for spring 2026.
Tags/Keywords
Players trust our reporting due to our commitment to unbiased and professional evaluations of the iGaming sector. We track hundreds of platforms and industry updates daily to ensure our news feed and leaderboards reflect the most recent market shifts. With nearly two decades of experience within iGaming, our team provides a wealth of expert knowledge. This long-standing expertise enables us to deliver thorough, reliable news and guidance to our readers.
Latest News
