How do I find a certified gambling counsellor in Ontario if I think I need professional help?

Reaching out for professional help is a genuinely good call, and the path in Ontario is more straightforward than most people expect — no referral required, no waitlist to navigate on your own, and no cost.

Start with ConnexOntario — it does the legwork for you

ConnexOntario is a free and confidential phone, chat, text, and email service that helps people in Ontario who need support and information about problem gambling services in their community. Trained specialists are available 24/7 to listen without judgment, answer questions, and connect you to gambling programs and services near you. That's the number to call first: 1-866-531-2600. You can also text 247247 or use the live chat at connexontario.ca.

You do not need a doctor's referral, and you can reach out at any time. You do not need a diagnosis to ask for help — if gambling is causing concern, stress, or questions, it is a good time to reach out. When you contact them, they'll ask for non-identifying information like your postal code or the name of your city so they can give you information about services available near you.

For Toronto specifically, ConnexOntario offers free and confidential support available 24/7, and whether you're looking for local counselling, treatment referrals, or crisis assistance, their team is there to help guide you to the right resources. For Toronto-area residents from Arabic, Italian, Spanish, and Portuguese communities, COSTI's problem gambling service provides culturally and linguistically appropriate treatment, and the program works collaboratively with ethno-specific agencies across the greater Toronto area.

CAMH for specialized clinical treatment in Toronto

The Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) provides specialized services for Ontarians whose gambling has led to difficulties in their life — including relationships, finances, self-care, and work. These services are free and offer support to both individuals and their family members, with counselling that is primarily group-based. CAMH is located in Toronto and is directly accessible via the ConnexOntario referral system, or you can contact the CAMH switchboard directly at 416-535-8501.

What ConnexOntario can actually arrange for you

ConnexOntario can connect you to local or provincial problem gambling treatment programs, support groups, and resources; match you with programs based on your situation, goals, and preferences; and provide access to resources for those impacted by a loved one's gambling. Services can include in-person, phone, or online options — all free, confidential, and voluntary.

ConnexOntario can also provide their service in more than 130 languages using translation services — a practical detail for a city as diverse as Toronto.

If you'd rather self-direct before calling, the ConnexOntario website has a searchable database of programs by location. A network of resources is available across Ontario, with free and confidential services — you can find your local treatment centre through their directory.

One more tool worth knowing: if you play on any AGCO-regulated Ontario online casino site, you can use BetGuard (betguard.ca) to self-exclude from all licensed Ontario online operators in a single step — a practical complement to counselling, not a replacement for it. Regulated Ontario sites display both the iGaming Ontario and BetGuard logos, so those logos are a quick check that you're on a legitimate, licensed platform. The legal gambling age in Ontario is 19+.