Arizona’s Division of Problem Gambling has expanded free financial counseling for people enrolled in the state’s voluntary self-exclusion program, giving them access to GamFin, a state-contracted provider. The service is aimed at the money problems that can follow gambling harm, even after someone has stopped betting.
Until now, financial counseling had been available only through the Treatment Assistance Program, which offers affordable outpatient treatment for problem gambling. Elise Mikkelsen, the division’s director, called financial harm one of the most significant impacts of problem gambling.
Under the new offering, each client works with a financial counselor in a confidential, non-judgmental setting. The process begins with an initial virtual session to identify immediate financial priorities and set long-term goals.
Later sessions focus on budgeting, debt management, rebuilding damaged credit and creating long-term financial stability. Alex De Marco, the founder of GamFin, said choosing to self-exclude is a real act of commitment, but ending gambling does not erase the financial harm it may have caused. He added that rebuilding a financial life is part of recovery and not something that can be set aside for later.
KVOA reported that the counseling is meant to provide timely, evidence-based support because participants may enter the program shortly after choosing to voluntarily self-exclude. The report said the expansion follows the department’s public awareness campaign, “Take Back the Game,” which uses television, radio and digital channels to spread the word about Arizona’s self-exclusion option.
The state’s self-exclusion system covers casino gaming, event wagering and daily fantasy sports contests, and in fiscal 2026, 651 Arizonans enrolled. People can choose one-year, five-year or 10-year bans, and the gaming department directs them to its exclusion page for more information and to begin the sign-up process.
