Product Description

Dixon and Wilson take readers on a journey though the therapeutic framework of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and how it applies to treating pathological gamblers. The book has been designed as both a resource for therapists on exactly what the ACT model is, as well as a treatment protocol to be used directly with clients. The authors showcases findings from their own clinics, and discuss how to integrate evidence-based practices into measurable clinical outcomes. The book is both an overview of ACT and its relationship to treating gamblers, and a practical treatment guide. The entire therapeutic task list is found within the text! The first section of Dixon and Wilson's book outlines the ACT approach in easy to understand terms. The authors use examples related to gambling as well as non-gambling, so that every reader can relate their lives to ACT. Each of the six dimensions of the treatment is eloquently described and illustrated with real client stories that provide a chilling context of the tragedy of problem gambling. The next section of the text provides the actual treatment protocol developed by this research team which can be used by readers to treat problem gambling. There are 8 week sessions, each broken down into a series of "pamphlets" that can be copied and given to clients in session. These materials also serve as a good guide for the therapist to ensure that they are following the treatment model effectively. The weekly pamphlets are a refreshing change from ambiguities found elsewhere. Exact treatment language, novel therapeutic gambling metaphors, client homework tasks, and session progress note sheets are all included. Take this book, read it, implement it, and begin to make the difference.