UCLA Gambling Studies Program Workshop Series
Mindfulness Strategies for Program Gamblers - Presented by Dr. Rory Reid
About this Presentation
This presentation is intended for problem gamblers in recovery. Dr. Reid will discuss how problem gamblers can implement principles of mindfulness in their efforts to reduce or eliminate gambling behaviors. This presentation will explain what mindfulness is, give examples of mindfulness exercises, and share 5 ways mindfulness can apply to problem gambling, specifically, 1) Increases tolerance for uncomfortable feelings, 2) helps with stress coping, 3) helps gamblers reorganizing their relationship with cravings, 4) enhances ability to regulate attention, and 5) reduces impulsive tendencies. Dr. Reid will also present some of the research UCLA and others have done on mindfulness and problem gambling. Finally, participants in this presentation will be given several online resources to continue learning and practicing mindfulness in their daily lives.
About the Presenter
Dr. Rory Reid holds a master’s degree in social work and a doctorate in clinical psychology with a dual emphasis in Neuropsychology and Marriage and Family Therapy. He completed his APA post-doctoral fellowship in the Department of Psychiatry at UCLA and additional post-doctoral training in clinical research at Harvard Medical School. Dr. Reid is an International Certified Gambling Counselor, a Research Psychologist, and an Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at UCLA. He mentors’ students, teaches, works with patients, and conducts research. Dr. Reid has published numerous research articles on behavioral addictions in scientific journals and has worked clinically with hundreds of individuals, couples, and families negatively impacted by various addictions and other mental health issues. His work has been featured in press outlets such as the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, TIME magazine, as well as TV specials on ABC, CBS and Fox News. He serves on the editorial boards for several peer-reviewed journals and has trained and educated mental health professionals, industry specialists, government organizations, and lay audiences around the world.
