Reno Problem Gambling Center Adds In-Person Clinical Sessions as Nevada Addiction Rate Hits 15 Percent
Reno’s Dr. Robert Hunter International Problem Gambling Center now offers in-person treatment of four three-hour weekly sessions across six weeks. Nevada’s problem gambling rate is 15%, 7.5 times the 2% national average, with average debt at $32,000. The center flags added risks from prediction markets lacking standard safeguards.
SCCG Take — The expansion signals rising treatment demand in markets with elevated addiction rates. Operators and regulators must address the consumer protection shortfall in prediction products that mirror betting without equivalent controls.
The Dr. Robert Hunter International Problem Gambling Center has expanded its Reno facility to offer in-person treatment for gambling harm. The addition provides structured clinician-led sessions at a time when local prevalence rates substantially exceed national figures.
A recent study shows around 15% of Nevada residents have a gambling problem. National Council on Problem Gambling data indicates this rate is 7.5 times higher than the 2% U.S. average. Affected individuals carry average debt of $32,000. In addition, 21% of the 65% of Nevada residents who gambled in the past year fall into the most severe risk category.
Structured In-Person Treatment Program
The new program consists of four three-hour sessions per week for six weeks with an in-house clinician. Stephanie Goodman, executive director of the Problem Gambling Center, said the sessions help participants understand brain function and the basis of their addiction.
“You’re not weak. You actually have a biological disorder that is causing you to have this problem.”
She added that individuals with gambling problems were far more likely to suffer negative consequences or even commit suicide.
Risks from Emerging Prediction Markets
Platforms offering prediction contracts, including Kalshi and Polymarket, present new concerns. These products can resemble sports betting but often lack the customer protections required of traditional operators.
“Prediction markets are incredibly predatory in marketing by young men.”
Casino workers, African Americans, Latinos, and men under 24 face elevated vulnerability. Goodman advised gamblers to monitor for signs of addiction and seek help promptly. The center’s in-person model delivers critical assistance through direct, individualized intervention.
This account is drawn from reporting by GamblingNews.
Reporting: GamblingNews
Generated by SCCG’s automated editorial system from published source reporting. SCCG Management holds editorial responsibility.
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