Three-Tiered Staff Training System for Establishing Support for Gambling Disorder in Japan

Session Title

Treatment: Family, Training & Support Systems

Presentation Type

Paper Presentation

Start Date

27-5-2026 12:00 AM

Abstract

We have developed and disseminated a three-tiered staff training system for establishing support for individuals with gambling disorder in Japan. We have divided support challenges for individuals with gambling disorder into three tiers: specialized support, brief interventions, and early detection and referral to related agencies. We have developed necessary support tools for each tier and conducted training on their use. First, as a tool for specialized support, the “Shimane Addiction Recovery Training for Gambling Disorder (SAT-G)” program was developed in 2015. This program is specifically designed to support gambling disorder based on cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) principles. After verifying its effectiveness, training on how to use this program was conducted. Next, as a brief intervention tool, we have developed the “SAT-G Lite Program,” which shortened the SAT-G program to three sessions and simplified its content using easier language. We have conducted training on using this program and made it available for use at public health centers nationwide. Finally, as a tool for early detection and coordination with related organizations, we have developed a self-check sheet titled “Which Stage Are You At?” and have conducted training using this tool. Through the development of these three tools and the implementation of training, we have established a systematic support system for individuals with gambling disorder in Japan.

Author Bios

Keiji Kobara, M.D., is a psychiatrist, Guest Professor at Osaka University of Commerce, and Director Emeritus of Matsugaoka Hospital in Japan. He graduated from the Faculty of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, in 1993, and has extensive clinical and administrative experience in psychiatry, including work at the University of Tokyo Hospital, Toranomon Hospital, Tokyo Metropolitan Matsuzawa Hospital, and correctional medical institutions.From 2012, he served as Director of the Shimane Prefectural Mental Health Welfare Center, where he led public mental health initiatives, including addiction prevention, suicide prevention, and professional training. His major area of work is gambling disorder, with a particular focus on community-based support systems, early detection, brief intervention, and collaboration between public agencies and clinical services. He currently chairs the Shimane Prefectural Council on Gambling Addiction Measures and serves on national and prefectural committees related to addiction policy and public health.

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May 27th, 12:00 AM

Three-Tiered Staff Training System for Establishing Support for Gambling Disorder in Japan

We have developed and disseminated a three-tiered staff training system for establishing support for individuals with gambling disorder in Japan. We have divided support challenges for individuals with gambling disorder into three tiers: specialized support, brief interventions, and early detection and referral to related agencies. We have developed necessary support tools for each tier and conducted training on their use. First, as a tool for specialized support, the “Shimane Addiction Recovery Training for Gambling Disorder (SAT-G)” program was developed in 2015. This program is specifically designed to support gambling disorder based on cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) principles. After verifying its effectiveness, training on how to use this program was conducted. Next, as a brief intervention tool, we have developed the “SAT-G Lite Program,” which shortened the SAT-G program to three sessions and simplified its content using easier language. We have conducted training on using this program and made it available for use at public health centers nationwide. Finally, as a tool for early detection and coordination with related organizations, we have developed a self-check sheet titled “Which Stage Are You At?” and have conducted training using this tool. Through the development of these three tools and the implementation of training, we have established a systematic support system for individuals with gambling disorder in Japan.