Free financial counseling for North Carolina residents impacted by gambling

Free, confidential financial counseling is available to North Carolina residents experiencing financial harm due to gambling. Get help managing debt, rebuilding your finances, and regaining control.

Book a free intake session →

Outer Banks, North Carolina

Reclaim Control of Your Finances and Your Future

We’ll show you how to:

  • Manage your debt

    Break free from gambling debt. Rebuild your financial foundation.

  • Gain clarity

    Understand your full financial picture, where your money is going, and what’s holding you back.

  • Build a plan

    Create a financial recovery plan that moves you forward and restores hope.

We have two options to support you.

Option 1. One-on-one virtual financial counseling

Find relief and a way forward.  Talk with a GamFin financial counselor and start feeling hopeful about your finances again.  In confidential one-on-one sessions, you’ll receive personalized support and practical guidance to help you manage debt, build a realistic budget, and move forward with confidence.

Not sure if you qualify? Schedule an intake session, and we’ll talk through your situation in a supportive, judgement-free conversation. Together, we’ll explore your options and help you figure out the best next step.

‍Every session is virtual, secure, and completely confidential.

Book a free intake session →

* Financial counseling is available in English and Spanish. Support for additional languages is coming soon.

Option 2. Group sessions

Not ready for a one-on-one session?  No problem.

You can join a no-cost group session to listen, learn, and connect with others in a safe space online.  There’s no pressure to participate or share.

Group sessions are open to everyone in the U.S. and offer an easy way to get started, whether you’re still exploring your options or simply want to learn more about GamFin and financial recovery.

Partners and loved ones are welcome to group sessions as well.  Join us to learn practical strategies for managing your family’s finances and finding relief.

Join a group session

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GamFin offers free, confidential financial counseling to North Carolina residents, with funding and support provided by the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services

NCDHHS

If gambling has created financial challenges, you’re not alone, and you don’t have to face them by yourself.  Our financial counselors are here to help you:

  • Take control of debt
  • Boost your money confidence
  • Rebuild and strengthen your credit
  • Ease money-related tension with loved ones
  • Explore your financial options
  • Build lasting financial habits
  • Create a budget that works
  • Transform your relationship with money

Get started by selecting a financial counselor

Our counselors are experts in gambling-related financial challenges, with proven experience in budgeting, debt management, credit improvement, and rebuilding healthy money systems for individuals and families.

Select your financial counselor

Problem Gambling Can Impact Anyone.

It doesn’t matter your income, education, or background. Millions of people are impacted worldwide.
‍
A national survey conducted in January 2025 by the American Psychiatric Association found that more than one in four American adults (28%) report gambling online every day.

Gambling disorder occurs when someone continues to bet even after it begins causing serious problems in their finances, relationships, work, or mental health.
‍
When the financial damange isn't addressed, many people find themselves pulled back into gambling as a way to cope, or to try to fix their financial situation. This cycle, called "chasing losses," can deepen the harm and make recovery harder.

a woman looking at a phone

9 million Americans are affected.

Financial Healing Fuels Recovery

The treatment providers we work with often tell us that when individuals and families can see a clear financial path forward, it brings relief, renewed confidence, and hope.

That sense of optimism makes it easier for people to engage in treatment and stay invested in the recovery process.

Addressing debt, budgeting, and money management alongside therapy can reduce the risk of relapse and support long-term recovery.

For every person with a gambling disorder, 6 to 10 others feel the fallout.

a man sitting on a bench looking at his phone

How it works

Book a session

Schedule a time slot when it's most convenient for you.

Fill out your forms.

Complete your new client onboarding forms.

Meet with your financial counselor

Discuss your financial situation and work together on a plan for your next steps.

About GamFin

a man and woman looking at a laptop

GamFin is a leading provider of financial counseling services focused on gambling-related financial problems.

We provide financial counseling, education, and support to individuals, families, and others impacted by someone's gambling.

Learn more

Free Resources

More Than A Game

Treatment, Prevention, and Recovery resources

Read more

National Problem Gambling Helpline

Call 1-800-GAMBLER, Text 800GAM, Chat 1800gamblerchat.org

Read more

North Carolina Problem Gambling Program

Provides and supports effective problem gambling prevention, education, outreach and treatment services throughout North Carolina

Read more

Start your financial recovery today

Let us help you gain clarity, find a path forward, and help restore hope.

Book an appointment

Testimonials

  • "... an incredible enhancement to our gambling counseling program. The financial counselors are skillful and compassionate, and once our clients begin working with the counselors, our clients regain a sense of hope to address the long-term financial impact of their gambling."

    Elizabeth Thielen

    LPC, PCGC

    Nicasa Behavioral Health Services

  • "I really like my financial counselor, Yvonne. I shared my financial background with her, and there was no judgement from her. She made me feel very comfortable and offered good suggestions. She seemed like she really cared. She even gave me advice on how to cut back my spending at restaurants and offered ideas on cheaper, healthier alternatives. I felt like she saw me as a whole person instead of just focusing on my finances."

    George C

  • Getting financial counseling through GamFin can be a turning point in recovery. Struggling with debt caused by gambling can feel overwhelming and isolating, but GamFin’s financial counselors truly understand what someone is going through. They provide practical guidance without judgment or shame, helping people create a realistic plan to rebuild their finances and regain control of their lives after gambling. Their empathy and expertise truly make all the difference.

    Christina Cook

    Founder & podcast host, Broke Girl Society

  • GamFin helped me understand the steps I needed to take to fix tax issues when I didn’t know where to turn. The thought of dealing with overdue taxes felt overwhelming, but my counselor approached everything with understanding and without an ounce of shame. She guided me through the process step by step, making it manageable and helping me regain control. Thanks to her support and understanding, I’m back on track and finally feel a sense of relief and confidence moving forward.

    Christina C

  • "I work with a GamFin counselor. I absolutely love him! He just got approval to continue counseling me. I use the Money Tracker he created for me once a week. I've always had a debt spreadsheet where I tracked my debt but I never tracked my spending. Nor have I ever had a budget. This Money Tracker captures everything. I look forward to our next meeting on Friday."

    Hannah L

  • “GamFin’s financial counseling services have done wonders for our clients. Financial pressures can increase anxiety and fears for individuals in treatment for problem gambling. Working in partnership with GamFin, we can alleviate that financial stress, giving our clients hope and the relief they need to focus on getting better rather than feeling overwhelmed by debt."

    Jody Bechtold

    LCSW, ICGC, IGDC, PC

    The Better Institute

  • “... an absolute miracle. As a problem gambling counselor, this is the service we've needed to give clients hope. When it comes to gambling addiction, the topic of money must be discussed. Our clients who have used this service come away with a realistic plan to pay off debts and rebuild financial health and still be able to live their lives.”

    Denise Bergner

    BA, CADC, PCGC

    Way Back Inn

  • "... an invaluable asset in working with individuals and families touched by problem gambling. The feedback from them has been overwhelmingly positive and shows in their response to treatment. And as an added benefit I receive support and training from experts in the field of finances. Something I was never fully comfortable dealing with but is vital in the work we do."

    Jennifer Macioce

    LCSW, ICGC-1

    Milestone Centers

  • Dr. Hampton's empathy, intelligence, and firmness were invaluable.

    Emily N

  • "I have had 3 sessions with Janice from GamFin and their service is so wonderful and has truly helped my anxiety so much, which is my biggest trigger. I look at my finances, get anxiety because I want to solve my issues now, and I gamble. She has really helped us break it down and curb our spending and helped me look at the broader picture."

    Nick M

  • I liked the ease of making a plan. When my head is spinning because of the numbers, I am calmed by Janice’s expertise.

    Hannah B

  • "I just want to say THANK YOU for this recommendation. My state wasn’t listed but they work with people here! (New Mexico) It’s been incredible to confront and tell someone out loud about finances, and receive support to create a realistic plan to tackle debts … and in an encouraging and nonjudgmental manner."

    Emma N

  • The counselor was beyond helpful, not only with financial advice but gambling-related advice. She pointed me in the right direction for finding a counselor to speak with about my addiction and how to get my finances in order permanently.

    Sam W

  • "I'm always worried about my son's gambling and financial problems, especially his credit score. GamFin has helped me understand that there is a way out of debt without getting scammed by loan consolidators and lenders. I feel 100% better now after talking with the financial counselor at GamFin. I'm confident they can help him make good decisions and give him some hope out of his financial mess."

    Jackie T

  • There is still work to do, but my counselor is ready to guide me. I am so grateful for this service.

    Max F

  • What I like about my GamFin counselor? Her compassion, understanding ... and I left feeling hopeful for a change.

    Ben V

  • "I had my first appointment this morning. I had been looking for a resource to help with the financial situation I am in right now. This is exactly what I needed. Thank you for sharing."

    Jake B

FAQs

How much does financial counseling cost?

Financial counseling is free to residents of North Carolina. In partnership with the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, we offer financial counseling at no cost to individuals and families.

What does GamFin do?

GamFin provides free, confidential financial counseling for individuals and families affected by gambling-related financial issues through partnerships with state agencies.

Why should I get financial counseling?

Individuals impacted by gambling-related financial issues often feel they have nowhere to turn. The added financial pressure can exacerbate anxiety and stress, which can lead to more gambling. Financial counseling can help relieve that pressure—helping you gain clarity, find a path forward, and restore hope.

How is financial counseling different?

Unlike financial advisers who focus on growing wealth, financial counselors help you address immediate financial issues and provide essential support to regain control, including managing debt, creating a spending plan, and setting up guardrails.

Does GamFin operate nationwide?

Coverage varies by state. Visit your state’s program page to see if free financial counseling is available where you live.

What funding makes this possible?

GamFin’s services are funded through partnerships with state governments, problem gambling councils, and other agencies committed to helping people impacted by gambling.

Who qualifies for GamFin services?

GamFin serves individuals experiencing financial distress due to gambling. Providers can also refer clients and integrate GamFin counseling into treatment plans. Services are available in states where GamFin has active partnerships.

Who can access my information?

Your information is safe and secure. GamFin is HIPAA-compliant and will only share information with your written consent. During your intake, you’ll have the opportunity to review and sign privacy forms.

How can I book a counseling session?

Your first session will be with an intake specialist who will review your needs and match you with the right counselor.

What should I expect during the first session?

The first meeting is focused on fact-finding. Counselors will ask questions, listen, and assess your situation. You can expect to leave with a strategy that includes concrete steps for moving forward.

How many sessions can I get?

On average, most people benefit from 3–4 sessions. More may be available if family members are involved or if your situation requires ongoing support.

What formats of counseling are offered?

We provide both one-on-one virtual sessions and virtual group financial counseling sessions.

What is a group financial counseling session?

Group sessions are free and open to anyone in the U.S., even if you don’t live in a state we partner with. They’re a supportive space where you can bring questions, get answers, hear from peers, and learn together.

Do I have to participate in a group session?

No. Group sessions are completely voluntary. You’re welcome to just listen until you feel ready to participate.

What do I get when I work with GamFin?

You’ll meet with a professional financial counselor who understands gambling-related financial challenges. After several sessions, you’ll also receive a personalized GamFin Financial Recovery Plan™, which includes a budget and step-by-step strategies for moving forward.

What is a GamFin Financial Recovery Plan™?

It’s a personalized action plan created after your initial sessions. It outlines your budget, debt repayment strategies, and practical next steps for building financial stability.

Do you manage bankruptcy?

No. Bankruptcy can sometimes be an option, but only as a last resort. For most people struggling with gambling losses, the better path is to repay debt and build a healthier relationship with money. Our counselors will help you explore alternatives first.

Do you offer loans?

No. We do not provide loans or sell financial products. Our counselors don’t earn commissions and won’t try to sell you anything.

I’m not ready to book a session yet. What can I do?

That’s okay. You can always come back when you’re ready. In the meantime, explore our resources to learn more about gambling harms and support options.