National Problem Gambling Clinic

The National Problem Gambling Clinic (NPGC) is an NHS outpatient clinic specialising in the assessment and treatment of gambling disorder. It is operated by the Central and North West London NHS Foundation Trust (CNWL) and has clinics at sites in London including Fulham Road and Camden. As a national centre, the NPGC also conducts research into gambling disorder and provides training for clinicians across the UK.

The clinic accepts adults aged 18 and above, with a pathway available for some patients aged 16–17. Referrals are accepted from GPs, mental health professionals, and via self-referral — people do not need a GP referral to make an initial enquiry. The clinic is free at the point of use for people resident in England who meet the clinical criteria for treatment.

The NPGC is one of a limited number of specialist NHS gambling disorder services in Great Britain. It provides a clinical pathway that is distinct from the community-based counselling offered by charities such as GamCare — the clinic is staffed by consultant psychiatrists, clinical psychologists, and specialist therapists, and is equipped to manage complex presentations including co-existing mental health conditions, substance misuse, and significant financial harm.

The clinic's treatment model is based on evidence-based approaches adapted for gambling disorder, principally cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) — which addresses the thought patterns and behaviours that maintain problematic gambling — and motivational interviewing, which helps patients identify and work with their own motivation to change.

Assessment at the clinic includes a detailed clinical evaluation of gambling history, severity, co-occurring mental health conditions (particularly anxiety, depression, and impulse control disorders), and financial circumstances. Where appropriate, the clinic may recommend a trial of medication, as certain pharmacological interventions have evidence for reducing gambling urges in some patient groups.

Group therapy is also offered for suitable patients, providing a structured peer support environment alongside individual therapy. The clinic recognises that problem gambling has significant secondary effects on relationships and families — family members and partners may also be seen as part of a comprehensive treatment approach.