The Center for the Treatment of Compulsive Gamblers

The Eldar center was established in 1990 under the management of

Ms. Pnina Eldar.

Ms. Eldar is an international expert on the treatment of compulsive addictions. She holds a degree in social work and a Masters in Public health education. She deals in the treatment and prevention of compulsive gambling.

The Eldar Center deals in three main fields:

1. Treatment and counseling for gamblers and their families.

2. Counseling and education for professional, parents and adolescents.

3. Lectures and workshops.

Treatment approaches:

1. The Cognitive Approach:This focuses on the 'styling of behavioral patterns, changing behavior and ways of thinking. The teaching of accepting responsibility and the control of the gambling urges.

2. The Existential Approach: This puts the person firmly within the 'here and now' reality And encourages him to accept responsibility for his destiny

3. The Systems Approach: Focuses on the gambler and his surroundings. The family, work environment and society.

Treatment Stages:

The treatment will be personalized to each patient with consideration of his physical and mental state. Physical withdrawal: As needed, in the patients house or a rehabilitation center. (hospitalization of between 8-15 days). The physical and mental separation from the addiction.

Holistic therapy: Healing, Bach Flowers, Yoga, Relaxation techniques and counseled imagery. The purpose is to strengthen and balance the body and the self relaxation process. Most help in the initial critical stages of physical abstention.

Personal therapy: Weekly (or more) meetings of one on one. Each patient has his own counselor, a professional that will accompany him throughout all stages of treatment.

Group therapy: Includes the weekly meeting of all groups.

A. Issues will be brought up for discussion, interpersonal communication will be taught , listening techniques, interpersonal relationship based on mutual respect, and tolerance. Other issues taught are: How to cope in situations of stress, What is positive thinking? How do we develop this and sustain it? The group as a source of support and mutual assistance.

B. Combining the techniques of relaxation and guided imagery. The aim is to bestow Upon the patient the tools to achieve physical relaxation, and enable him reach inside his subconsciousness and bring up contents relevant to his life today.

Couple treatment: The return of trust within the relationship, how to cope?!

Follow up: At least two years of follow up upon completion of the treatment.