Welcome to the RI Council on Problem Gambling Training Page!
Below is a list of upcoming trainings. Unless stated otherwise, all trainings are free and held via Zoom. To register, click the training title to go to the Zoom registration page. You’ll receive a reminder email one week before the session. Certificates are emailed within 10 business days after the course ends. Important: To earn CEU credit, your camera must stay on for the entire session. Questions? Email us at rhodeislandcouncil@gmail.com
Our Upcoming Free 2026 Trainings!
May 2026
Title: Older Adults and Casino Gambling: Behaviors, Motivations, and Risk
DATE: May 12, 2026 from 12:00pm-1:30pm ET
CEUs:
Eligible for 1.5 continuing education units by the RI Certification Board; 1.5 continuing education units by the NASW RI; NBCC ACEP No. 7361
RICPG is an approved Preferred Provider through the International Problem Gambling and Gaming Certification Organization (IPGGC).
Trainer: Mark Van Der Maas, PhD.
COURSE DESCRIPTION:
As younger age groups move to online gambling, older adults remain an important demographic for the casino industry. This course will look into the motivations that older adults have to visit the casino, what behaviors and characteristics are associated with higher risk of Gambling Disorder, and potential shifts in older adults as the baby boom generation dominates what we consider as “older adult”. How these findings reflect the promotional practices of casinos and vulnerabilities of older adults will also be explored.
Objectives:
- Gain insight on what motivates older people to visit the casino.
- Identify characteristics associated with greater risk of Gambling Disorder among older adults.
- Discuss implications for addressing gambling harm in older adults.
Registration Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/NeGsr7l3QHy2-0uQTgbfYA
August 2026
DATE: August 11, 2026 from 12:00pm-1:30pm ET
CEUs: Eligible for 1.5 continuing education units by the RI Certification Board; 1.5 continuing education units by the NASW RI; NBCC ACEP No. 7361
RICPG is an approved Preferred Provider through the International Problem Gambling and Gaming Certification Organization (IPGGC).
Trainer: Megan Poliquin, LPCC-S, LICDC-GAMB, OCPSA
COURSE DESCRIPTION:
Sports betting apps, instant deposits, and 24/7 access have changed the game for today’s college
students. What was once occasional or social is now fast, frequent, and often difficult to detect – leaving
many students vulnerable to gambling-related harm before it’s recognized. As access expands and
normalization grows, the line between “just for fun” and real harm is becoming increasingly blurred.
This 90-minute webinar goes beyond the basics to examine the unique vulnerabilities of college students
and the evolving culture of gambling on campus. Participants will learn how to identify early warning signs,
understand the broader impact on student well-being, and explore practical strategies for engaging
students in conversations about gambling. The session will also highlight actionable approaches for
strengthening campus response, including early intervention, referral pathways, and connections to care.
GOAL OF TRAINING: Increase understanding of gambling-related harms among college students and
enhance ability to identify, prevent, and respond within campus and student-facing settings.
LEARNING OBJECTIVES:
1. Describe current trends in gambling among college students.
2. Identify common risk factors and warning signs of gambling-related harms in college populations.
3. Explain the relationship between gambling and co-occurring concerns such as mental health &
substance use.
4. Recognize opportunities for early intervention, prevention, and referral within campus and student facing roles.
5. Apply at least one practical strategy for engaging college students in conversations about gambling
in a non-stigmatizing and supportive way.
Registration Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/NeGsr7l3QHy2-0uQTgbfYA
September 2026
Title: Gambling & Youth: Understanding the Why, Spotting the Signs, and Having Better Conversations
DATE: September 1, 2026 from 12:00pm-1:30pm ET
CEUs: Eligible for 1.5 continuing education units by the RI Certification Board; 1.5 continuing education units by the NASW RI; NBCC ACEP No. 7361
RICPG is an approved Preferred Provider through the International Problem Gambling and Gaming Certification Organization (IPGGC).
Trainer: Brittany Sue Hines, M.Ed.
COURSE DESCRIPTION:
Why are more young people engaging in gambling and what’s influencing their choices? This session explores the deeper “why” behind youth gambling, including brain development, risk-taking, and the powerful impact of targeted marketing and sports betting culture. Attendees will learn how to recognize early signs of concern, understand what puts youth at risk, and practice approachable, non-judgmental ways to start meaningful conversations that support informed and healthier choices
Objectives:
- Participants will be able to describe current trends in youth gambling (including skins gambling, loot boxes, and sports wagering) and identify key risk factors that contribute to the development of problem gambling behaviors.
- Participants will be able to explain how adolescent brain development influences risk-taking, decision-making, and susceptibility to gambling-related harm, and recognize early behavioral and emotional indicators of gambling problems.
- Participants will learn and practice effective, research-supported communication and intervention strategies to help young people make informed choices and reduce gambling-related risks.
Registration Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/zoqCaZuHS4ejIjnZVVBQnA
Title: Hidden Risks: Problem Gambling in Prediction Market Platforms
DATE: September 23, 2026 from 12:00pm-1:30pm ET
CEUs: Eligible for 1.5 continuing education units by the RI Certification Board; 1.5 continuing education units by the NASW RI; NBCC ACEP No. 7361
RICPG is an approved Preferred Provider through the International Problem Gambling and Gaming Certification Organization (IPGGC).
Trainer: Jenna Hotaling, CHES; National Council on Problem Gambling Training Manager
COURSE DESCRIPTION:
Abstract: Prediction markets—platforms where participants trade on the likelihood of future events—are often framed as tools for aggregating information and improving forecasts. However, they share structural similarities with gambling environments, including real-money stakes, rapid feedback loops, and uncertainty-based rewards. Participants will be provided with foundational information on problem gambling, warning signs, and impacts on individuals and loved ones. Additionally, focus areas will include where the line between forecasting and gambling begins to blur, and why that distinction matters for public health and policy.
Learning Objectives:
· Define problem gambling, including key warning signs and its impacts on individuals and their families.
· Explain how prediction markets function and identify similarities and differences between prediction markets and traditional gambling.
· Evaluate the blurred boundary between forecasting and gambling, and assess its implications for public health and policy.
Registration Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/NeGsr7l3QHy2-0uQTgbfYA
RI Council on Problem Gambling Training Academy Self Paced
We’re excited to support participants on their path to becoming a Certified Gambling Treatment Specialist through our newly revised, self-paced program. This comprehensive course is available for $275
To begin registration, please fill out the form below and a representative will be in contact with you within 2 business days.
