RECOVERY MONTH! (Post 170)

September 30, 2024

September is Recovery Month! Throughout this month, I have been inspired by great online and television messages carrying the assurance that recovery associated with addiction and other mental health issues is do-able - and worth it! Moreover, the International Gambling Counselor Certification Board website (www.igccb.org) included a particularly moving article by Christina Cook. She has graciously given me permission to include her encouraging and affirming words. Thank you, Christina!

CELEBRATING RECOVERY MONTH (igccb.org)

September marks National Recovery Month, a time to honor the strength and resilience of individuals on their journey to recovery. It’s a reminder that recovery is possible and we all play a role in supporting those who are striving to rebuild their lives.

FROM CHRISTINA COOK, IGCCB BOARD SECRETARY

“To celebrate Recovery Month, I’d like to share what recovery means to me. Recovery isn’t just about stopping the harmful and destructive behavior – in my case gambling. It’s about reclaiming control over my life and healing the damage caused not only financially but also emotionally, mentally, physically, and spiritually. It’s been a challenging yet rewarding journey of rediscovering my self-worth, rebuilding trust, and developing positive habits that support my mental health and overall goals. For me, recovery is ultimately about moving forward with resilience and hope, free from the chaos and harm that gambling once created in my life.”

Christina Cook, IGCCB Board Secretary and Host of the Broke Girl Society Podcast

IGCCB UPDATE!!

The International Gambling Counselor has been hard at work expanding Certifications for supporting recovery for Gambling and Gaming issues. These professional certifications broadly cover care from first responder aid to clinical therapy to peer recovery support. Here is the listing!

IGCC-I Clinical Counseling, Level 1

IGCC-II Clinical Counseling, Level 2

BACC Certification Board Approved Clinical Consultant Certification

CGT Gambling Disorder Trainer Certification

ICOGS International Co-Occurring Gambling Specialist

IGDC International Gaming Disorder Certificate

CCGSO Clergy/Lay Ministers Certification (non-clinical)

IGRS International Gambling Recovery Specialist Certification (Recovery Peers with specialized knowledge and skills)

BARA Board Approved Recovery Advisor Certification

For more information on the above classifications, go to igccb.org/certifications/

As you can see, there are many ways to support recovery for persons affected by gambling and gaming disorders.

Keep up this great work of outreach - nationally and internationally, IGCCB!