DHS Problem Gambling Program Training Scholarship Fund Information


    The Problem Gambling Program unit of the Behavioral Health Division offers scholarship reimbursements for training of qualified clinicians who wish to become a problem gambling treatment service provider. Eligibility requirements to receive a scholarship:

    1. Must be a qualified provider serving Minnesota residents.
    2. Must be an ADC-T or fully licensed as an alcohol and drug counselor, a psychologist, a social worker, a marriage and family therapist, psychotherapist, or a psychiatric nurse.
    3. An agency may apply for the scholarship on behalf of qualifying staff.

    Per Minnesota Administrative Rule 9585.0040; DHS recognizes training certified by the International Gambling Counselor Certification Board, (IGCCB).

    IGCCB has set up approved training programs to enable professionals to identify appropriate training courses that meet the IGCCB standard. Approved status is a mark of quality that the body awards to training programs who meet their standards for training content and delivery.

    These courses are 100% virtual.

    Scholarship applicants must complete at minimum 60 hours of training per Rule 9585.0040, this can be achieved by following any of the track plans laid out below:

    1. 60 Hour Training Option 1:
      • ICGC – I (Sign up for 1 of the currently available training options listed under IGCG I - 30 Hours)
      • ICGC – II (Sign up for 30-hour Advanced/On-Demand Webinars through The Better Institute)
    2. 60 Hour Training Option 2:
      • Complete full 60-hour self-paced course to meet ICGC – II through Center for Addiction Studies

    IGCCB Trainings are available at https://www.igccb.org/certified-trainings/

    The Department of Human Services (DHS) is committed to advancing equity, reducing disparities in DHS program outcomes, and improving access to human services for communities experiencing inequities. The DHS Problem Gambling Program will offer full financial support towards the cost of the Problem Gambling Counselor Training.


    For any additional information regarding the problem gambling scholarship program or to receive an application, please contact dhs.problemgamblingprogram@state.mn.us.


    Frequently Asked Questions

    Can anyone apply for this scholarship?
    Must be a qualified provider serving Minnesota residents.

    How much is the scholarship for?
    The scholarship will cover up to $1,197.00 of training costs.

    Do I have to pay for the course first from my own resources?
    Yes, the scholarship recipient or employer is responsible for paying for the training at the time of enrollment and will be reimbursed after confirmation of course completion.

    How long is the training?
    The training is 60 hours, self-guided online modules. Each student will work at their own pace.

    Can I become a gambling treatment provider as an LADC?
    Currently, DHS is unable to enter into gambling treatment provider contracts with individual LADCs. However, an LADC may provide gambling treatment services under the employment of a licensed treatment program or mental health agency.

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