Problem-gambling expert to lead forum

BANGOR – The state’s Problem Gaming Council is gearing up to bring a noted problem gambling expert to Maine for a weeklong training “blitz” for mental health, substance abuse, education and other professionals during Problem Gaming Week, which kicks off nationally on March 19.

The Maine Gambling Control Unit, a division of the state Department of Public Safety, has pledged $6,000 toward the estimated $10,000 cost of a series of workshops.

They will feature Tom Broffman, a regionally known authority on problem gambling, Executive Director Robert Welch said Wednesday after a board meeting in Augusta.

A Rhode Island resident, Broffman is an assistant professor of social work at Eastern Connecticut State University with more than 30 years of experience in employee assistance programs, mental health, addictions, problem gambling and other disorders.

Other events set for Problem Gaming Week will include a proclamation by Gov. John Baldacci and print and television spots aimed at increasing public awareness.

Though plans for the workshop series are still being firmed up, Broffman is slated to present the following workshops, all of which run 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m.:

. “Youth Gambling: Prevention & Treatment,” March 19, University of Maine, Orono. The target audience includes student affairs professionals, counselors, social workers, high school and college administrators, educators, student activities leaders and anyone else interested in the topic.

. “Assessing, Diagnosing & Treating Problem Gambling,” March 20-21, Elks Lodge, Waterville.

This two-day session is aimed at counselors, case managers, educators and other service providers in mental health and substance abuse settings. A prerequisite for the session is the one-day problem gambling training offered last fall and in fall 2005.

. “Motivational Interviewing & Problem Gambling,” March 22, Elks Lodge, Waterville. This workshop is aimed at counselors, case managers, educators and other service providers in mental health and substance abuse settings.

. “Elder Gambling: Prevention & Treatment,” March 23, Verrillo’s Convention Center, Portland. This workshop is aimed at substance abuse professionals, social workers, other service providers in mental health and substance abuse settings and anyone else interested in increasing their understanding and skills in working with older adults.