The Arizona Department of Gaming (ADG) has taken a major step in expanding its problem gambling recovery services. On Monday, the agency’s Division of Problem Gambling announced it has awarded its first peer support and recovery contract to Dezerve Counseling LLC — marking a new chapter in how the state supports those struggling with gambling addiction.
The new initiative will create Arizona’s first peer support and recovery program, designed to offer free, confidential services to residents affected by problem gambling. The program aims to connect participants with trained specialists who have lived experience with gambling addiction and recovery.
“Creating an additional pathway to recovery for Arizona community members negatively impacted by problem gambling is exciting for our agency and the people we serve,” said Elise Mikkelsen, Director of the Division of Problem Gambling. “We look forward to adding peer support and recovery services to enhance the comprehensive options already available.”
Under the program, each client will be matched with a Peer Support and Recovery Specialist — individuals who have personally overcome problem gambling or supported loved ones through recovery. These specialists receive rigorous training and certification, allowing them to provide compassionate, non-clinical guidance in one-on-one or group settings.
Dezerve Counseling Chief Administrative Officer Darfetta Muhammad said the partnership represents a powerful commitment to helping Arizonans reclaim control over their lives. “We believe that recovery begins with a single step forward,” she said. “This program offers that vital next step to individuals and families navigating problem gambling.”
The peer support program will be accessible statewide through in-person, virtual, and phone-based sessions, ensuring that support reaches Arizonans wherever they are. Importantly, there will be no cost to participants and no insurance requirements.
The program is also expected to boost the state’s recovery workforce by training new specialists to meet growing demand. Both ADG and Dezerve Counseling plan to launch the initiative in spring 2026.
For more information or to seek help with problem gambling, Arizonans can visit problemgambling.az.gov, call 1-800-NEXT-STEP, or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 for 24/7 confidential assistance.
