Reviewed by: Madina Abdrakhmanova, addiction psychologist · updated 6 Nov 2026
Key facts
- ICD-10 code
- F63.0
- Who provides care
- A psychiatrist, a psychotherapist, and a clinical psychologist
- Format
- Individual video sessions and consultations for the family
- Duration
- Each session lasts 50–60 minutes; a course includes 8 to 20 sessions
- Confidentiality
- Medical confidentiality under the Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan; you don’t have to give your full name
- When it’s urgent
- Thoughts of suicide or despair over debts — call 103, 112, or the 150 helpline
- Outcome
- Control over the urge to gamble, a plan for dealing with debts, and repaired relationships
What you should know
Gambling addiction, or pathological gambling, is classified in ICD-10 among habit and impulse disorders (F63.0), while ICD-11 places it in a separate group of disorders due to addictive behaviors. It shows up as frequent, repeated episodes of gambling that dominate a person’s life and lead to the deterioration of social, work, and family relationships, as well as serious financial losses and debts.
With the rise of online casinos, betting apps, and gaming platforms, the disorder has become more accessible and less noticeable to others. Online treatment at Psychiatry Online lets you get help in Khromtau without visiting a facility, which is especially important for people who feel ashamed or fear exposure. Psychotherapy by video has proven effectiveness and can be combined with a psychiatrist’s consultation when needed.
Signs of Gambling Addiction
- constantly thinking about gambling, planning bets, and looking for money to gamble
- raising the size of bets to get the same excitement as before
- irritability and restlessness when trying to cut back on gambling
- trying to win back losses after losing, known as chasing losses
- lying to loved ones about the time and money spent on gambling
- debts, loans, and selling belongings to keep gambling
- conflicts at home and at work related to gambling
If heavy drinking has lasted more than two or three days, or there is shaking, vomiting, blood-pressure spikes or insomnia, you need a doctor rather than stopping alone. An online consultation is free and helps assess the risks before a visit. For seizures, confusion or hallucinations call 103 or 112.
Why Gambling Addiction Develops
Gambling works on the principle of unpredictable reward: wins come irregularly, and it is precisely this uncertainty that most strongly activates the brain’s reward system. Over time, a person develops a lasting link between gambling and excitement, while ordinary sources of pleasure lose their appeal. Cognitive distortions — belief in a “system,” in luck, or in being able to win the money back — keep the gambling going even further.
The risk is increased by impulsivity, a tendency to seek thrills, depression, anxiety disorders, other forms of addiction, and early experience with gambling. Online forms of gambling make the problem worse: 24/7 availability, fast betting, and anonymity make it easier to lose control. Understanding how addiction works helps a person stop blaming themselves and start treatment, and an online consultation with a psychotherapist in Khromtau makes the first step easier.
How Online Treatment for Gambling Addiction Works
The first session is devoted to assessment: the specialist asks about the types of gambling, how often you gamble, the amount lost, debts, your emotional state, and previous attempts to stop. For the video session, you need a device with a camera and a place where you can talk freely. A therapy plan is then drawn up, which includes restricting access to gambling, working with thoughts and emotions, and financial planning. Between sessions, the patient completes assignments and keeps a diary.
The online format suits most patients, but severe depression, suicidal thoughts, or a combination with serious substance addiction may require an in-person appointment with a psychiatrist in Khromtau or inpatient treatment. If you are having thoughts of suicide, call 103, 112, or the 150 helpline immediately.
How we help
Cognitive behavioral therapy
CBT is the most thoroughly studied treatment for gambling addiction. The patient learns to recognize gambling-related cognitive distortions, such as the illusion of control over chance or the belief that a win is just around the corner, and to replace them with realistic assessments. They also practice skills for coping with urges, planning their time, and avoiding high-risk situations.
Motivational interviewing
Many people with a gambling addiction have mixed feelings: the wish to quit coexists with the hope of winning their money back. Motivational interviewing helps explore these contradictions without pressure or judgment, strengthen personal reasons for change, and set realistic goals. The method is often used at the early stage of treatment.
Managing finances and access
The practical side of therapy includes self-exclusion from gambling sites, installing blocking tools, temporarily handing control of finances to a trusted person during treatment, and drawing up a debt repayment plan. These measures do not replace psychotherapy, but they significantly lower the risk of relapse in the first months and create safe conditions for therapy.
Treating co-occurring disorders
Gambling addiction often goes hand in hand with depression, anxiety, ADHD, and alcohol misuse. The psychiatrist assesses these conditions and prescribes treatment if needed, including medications from the appropriate groups. The prescribing procedure is governed by the legislation of the Republic of Kazakhstan and the examination requirements; treating co-occurring disorders makes therapy more effective.
Myths and facts
MythGambling addiction is just a lack of willpower
FactGambling addiction is recognized as a mental disorder in ICD-10 and ICD-11. It is linked to changes in how the brain’s reward system works and to cognitive distortions. It is a treatable illness, not a character trait.
MythJust pay off the debts and the problem will go away
FactPaying off debts without treatment often just frees up resources for more gambling. Financial help is important, but it should be combined with psychotherapy and measures to restrict access to gambling; otherwise, the risk of relapse is high.
MythGambling addiction can’t be treated online
FactPsychotherapy for gambling addiction adapts well to the video format, and studies show comparable effectiveness. Online treatment is convenient, protects confidentiality, and makes it possible to complete the course without interruptions.
How an online appointment works
- Message or callWrite on WhatsApp or call — our coordinator replies within minutes, day or night. You don't have to give your surname.
- Doctor and timeWe match you with a psychiatrist, addiction specialist or psychotherapist and agree on a time — often the same day.
- Video consultationA secure 50–60 minute video call: the doctor takes a detailed history and uses standardised scales if needed.
- Treatment planYou receive a clear summary, recommendations and a plan: what we do online and what needs an in-person visit or home call.
- Follow-upOnline follow-up sessions, messenger contact with your doctor, and treatment adjustments until you get a stable result.
Prices in Khromtau
| Online addiction specialist consultation | 12 000 ₸ |
| Online addiction therapy session | 15 000 ₸ |
| Online support program (one month) | 80 000 ₸ |
The final cost is agreed before treatment starts. Prices are in tenge and do not constitute a public offer.
Where to get help
Psychiatry Online in Khromtau: same-day video appointments and two branches for in-person visits — 45 Pobedy St., Khromtau and 95 Gagarina St., office 33, Khromtau. Our mobile team works around the clock: all city districts and nearby settlements. If you live elsewhere in Aktobe Region, starting online is usually easiest.
Confidential and private
Information about your visit, diagnosis and treatment is protected by medical confidentiality under the Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan “On Public Health and the Healthcare System”. We never share it with your employer, school or relatives without your consent; the only exceptions are those expressly set out by law. For an online consultation your first name is enough, video runs over a secure channel and nothing is recorded without your consent.
Questions and answers
How can I tell that gambling has become an addiction?
Warning signs include losing control over time and money, trying to win back losses, lying to loved ones, debts, and irritability when trying to stop. If several of these signs have been present for months, it is worth seeing a specialist for an assessment. An online consultation will help you figure things out without an in-person visit.
How long does treatment take?
A course of cognitive behavioral therapy usually includes 8 to 20 sessions, but its length is set individually. After the main course, maintenance sessions every few weeks are helpful. They help consolidate skills and catch the signs of a possible relapse early.
Is medication needed for gambling addiction?
Psychotherapy is the foundation of treatment. Medication may be needed for co-occurring disorders such as depression, anxiety, or ADHD. The decision is made by a psychiatrist after an assessment; whether a medication can be prescribed and a prescription issued depends on the legislation of the Republic of Kazakhstan and the requirement for an initial examination.
What should relatives do?
Loved ones should avoid paying off debts without a treatment plan, protect their own finances, and seek a consultation with a specialist. Family sessions help set boundaries and support the person without control or blame. Relatives can get help even if the gambler is not yet ready for treatment.
Will anyone find out that I sought help?
No. Information about your consultations is protected by medical confidentiality under the Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan “On Public Health and the Healthcare System.” Your request can be anonymous. Information may be disclosed only in cases expressly provided for by law.
Can I get help at night?
Yes, consultations are available around the clock. The urge to gamble often grows stronger at night, and being able to reach a specialist at that moment helps you hold on. In an acute crisis, with thoughts of suicide, or in despair over debts, call 103, 112, or 150.
Where can I be seen in Khromtau?
Online — from anywhere in the city or region. In person — at two branches: 45 Pobedy St., Khromtau and 95 Gagarina St., office 33, Khromtau. Both are open 24/7; home visits cover all city districts and nearby settlements.
Sources and methodology
This page was prepared by the Psychiatry Online medical editorial team based on:
- International Classification of Diseases ICD-10 and ICD-11, World Health Organization
- Clinical diagnosis and treatment protocols of the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Kazakhstan
- Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan “On Public Health and the Healthcare System”
- NICE (UK) and APA (US) guidelines on the treatment of mental disorders
- WHO recommendations on telemedicine and digital health
This information is for reference only and does not replace a consultation with a specialist. Editorial policy
