Concerned About Gambling? You’re not alone!

In Illinois, over 1.1 million adults are dealing with gambling-related challenges.

According to this 2021 study.

How We Can Help

Since 2002, Nicasa has been helping individuals address gambling behaviors through awareness, outreach, and treatment services. Our team offers personalized support, including options to quit, take a break, assist loved ones, promote safer sports betting, or enroll in self-exclusion programs. Whether you’re seeking gambling treatment or other forms of support, our services are tailored to fit your unique situation.

Nicasa Behavioral Health Services offers support for individuals at any stage looking to:

Make a plan to be safe...
for those just starting to gamble.
Correct course...
for those who's betting has gone off-track.
Recover...
for those who've experienced gambling-related harm.

Help Overcoming Financial Barriers to Services:

Whatever your financial situation, insurance status, or need, we’re here for you.

Counseling Options:

We provide flexible services that fit your schedule and preferences:

  • In-person, video, or phone sessions
  • Individual, group, family, and peer support options

Tools and Resources:

  • Access to a certified financial counselor specializing in gambling-related finances
  • Blocking software to help restrict online gambling on your devices
  • An app to set, track, and keep your goals within reach
  • Web-based skill-building available during sessions and on-demand

The Hidden Harm of Labels: Moving Beyond “Gambling Addict”

Understanding and treating problem gambling starts with empathy. In this blog post, we explore how person-first language shifts the focus from the issue to the individual, helping reduce shame and encourage engagement in gambling treatment. Read the full article to learn how language supports recovery at Nicasa.

Our team has been serving the community since 2002, helping prevent and address gambling-related issues through tailored support and treatment.

Meet The Team:

Elisa Albarran
Counselor

Elisa Albarran

Provides gambling counseling services in English and Spanish.

Debra
Debra Bobo
Peer Recovery Specialist

Debra Bobo

Provides guidance and support around early recovery issues.

Tashia-Marie-Mauch
Tashia-Marie Mauch
Counselor

Tashia-Marie Mauch

Provides counseling for gambling and other addictive disorders.

Nina Naus
Counselor

Nina Naus

Provides Gambling Counseling Services to adults and youth.

Jesus-Rivera
Jesus Rivera
Counselor

Jesus Rivera

Provides Gambling individual and group counseling services.

Christina Romasanta
Counselor

Christina Romasanta

Provides Gambling Counseling Services.

Heather Shaver
Gambling Services Supervisor

Heather Shaver

Provides Counseling Services and Supervises Gambling Counselors.

Elizabeth Thielen, LPC, PCGC, ICGC-II
Senior Director

Elizabeth Thielen, LPC, PCGC, ICGC-II

A certified gambling counselor and public speaker on the subject, Elizabeth heads up an incredible team of counselors and outreach specialists.

Kentay Varnell
Gambling Outreach Specialist

Kentay Varnell

Kentay provides resource materials and outreach.

Alexis
Alexis Warden
Counselor

Alexis Warden

Provides gambling counseling services for adults and youth.

Contact Our Team: 

Proud Members Of:

NCPG

Current Client in Nicasa Behavioral Health Services’ Gambling Treatment Services?

Click here to access private educational and skill-building programs.

Don’t have a password? Just ask your counselor.