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
CounselorElisa Albarran
Provides gambling counseling services in English and Spanish.

Debra Bobo
Peer Recovery SpecialistDebra Bobo
Provides guidance and support around early recovery issues.

Tashia-Marie Mauch
CounselorTashia-Marie Mauch
Provides counseling for gambling and other addictive disorders.

Nina Naus
CounselorNina Naus
Provides Gambling Counseling Services to adults and youth.

Jesus Rivera
CounselorJesus Rivera
Provides Gambling individual and group counseling services.

Christina Romasanta
CounselorChristina Romasanta
Provides Gambling Counseling Services.

Heather Shaver
Gambling Services SupervisorHeather Shaver
Provides Counseling Services and Supervises Gambling Counselors.

Elizabeth Thielen, LPC, PCGC, ICGC-II
Senior DirectorElizabeth 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 SpecialistKentay Varnell
Kentay provides resource materials and outreach.

Alexis Warden
CounselorAlexis Warden
Provides gambling counseling services for adults and youth.









