BetMGM partners with Kindbridge to enhance mental health support for problem gamblers in Colorado

iGaming and sports betting operator BetMGM and gambling harm teletherapy firm Kindbridge Behavioral Health have come together to unveil a new program in Colorado, aimed at improving access to crucial mental health services for individuals grappling with problem gambling.

Kindbridge is a mental health service provider focusing on individuals facing challenges related to problem gambling. Its partnership with BetMGM will empower self-excluded players with direct access to comprehensive mental health assessments and group support services.

The pilot program provides resources for players in need to schedule appointments immediately with specialized problem gambling outpatient treatment providers via telehealth services. As part of this partnership, gamblers who self-exclude from the BetMGM platform in Colorado will now be able to receive a complimentary mental health assessment and gain access to a range of peer support and educational groups designed to kickstart their recovery journey, according to a BetMGM blog post.

"It is important that the sports betting industry continues to invest and innovate in this field. Kindbridge is a leader in developing world-class mental health care that comprehends the unique challenges associated with gambling addiction. We are eager to champion the growth and expansion of connecting problem gamblers with the crucial services they need,” Adam Greenblatt, CEO of BetMGM said.

"Relationships like this make it considerably easier for individuals seeking care to find swift access to the services they need. Together, Kindbridge and BetMGM are pushing the envelope in creating the right kind of connectivity between the gaming industry and healthcare services that will positively impact lives," Daniel Umfleet, Founder & CEO of Kindbridge Behavioral Health, said.

The company said the Colorado Division of Gaming, a division of the Colorado Department of Revenue, played a pivotal role in fostering this partnership via its new rule in October that mandates operators to have a robust risk scoring system for problem gambling detection and a rapid response communication strategy.

The regulator also launched the state's new self-exclusion program early this month. The program allows individuals with responsible gaming concerns to enroll to be excluded from gambling at casinos and placing sports wagers at retail and online sportsbooks in the Centennial State.