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The Arizona Department of Gaming is stepping up support for residents struggling with gambling problems. Its Division of Problem Gambling recently awarded its first contract for peer support and recovery services to Phoenix-based Dezerve Counseling LLC.
Dezerve Counseling will develop and manage a statewide program that connects individuals with certified peer specialists—people who have experienced similar challenges. Services, which begin in spring 2026, will be free of charge, confidential, and accessible in person, by phone, or online.
Elise Mikkelsen, director of the Division of Problem Gambling, said the program complements the state’s existing support services. “Our team has shown it can offer quick and reliable help. This peer support will build on what we already do,” she said.
Darfetta Muhammad, chief administrative officer at Dezerve Counseling, emphasized the importance of guidance from those who have lived the experience. “Helping people recover takes time, and we aim to stand by them every step,” she said.
More gambling options drives increased demand for help
Arizona’s gambling options have expanded in recent years. Sports betting, fantasy sports, and event wagering became legal in 2021. In October 2025, bettors placed nearly $967 million in wagers, a monthly record. That month’s tax revenue reached $5.2 million. In 2024, sports betting generated $707.7 million statewide, contributing $42.7 million to state coffers.
As gambling opportunities grow, calls for help have risen sharply. The division’s helpline, 1-800-NEXT-STEP, saw a 300% increase after sports betting launched. In fiscal year 2024, it received more than 3,000 calls, and text contacts to NEXTSTEP at 53342 also increased. The division funded treatment for 992 people in 2024, up from 948 in 2023 and 816 in 2022, totaling $1.4 million in costs.
Nationally, about 2.5 million adults struggle with severe problem gambling, with 5 to 8 million more facing milder issues. In Arizona, young adults ages 18 to 34 show higher risk, particularly with online betting apps. College students often start with small wagers that can quickly lead to debt.
State and tribal revenues support problem gambling programs
Tribal gaming and state lottery revenues fund the division’s work. The fiscal 2026 budget allocates $3.32 million to problem gambling programs, covering treatment, education, and prevention. 2% of tribal gaming revenue supports these efforts, totaling $1.82 million in the first half of the year; full-year contributions could reach $3.64 million.
Current programs include the Treatment Assistance Program, which covers outpatient care for individuals affected by gambling problems, as well as family, friends, or coworkers. The division offers free training for counselors, including a 60-hour basic course and advanced sessions. Prevention grants help organizations educate youth ages 13 to 25 about safe choices.
Self-exclusion allows people to block themselves from casinos or betting sites for one, five, or 10 years. Since the program began, more than 11,000 people have enrolled. In fiscal year 2025, there were 557 new enrollments.
24/7 helpline and online resources provide immediate assistance
The new peer support program adds a personal dimension to recovery, but people do not need to wait for it to get help. The helpline operates 24/7, and problemgambling.az.gov lists providers, self-assessments, tips, and community discussions.
Arizona’s initiative reflects a focus on balanced, responsible gambling. As gambling grows, the state is actively working to protect residents, offering accessible, personalized support to help people reclaim their lives.
