Mindfulness Based Relapse Prevention

Mindfulness Based Relapse Prevention for Problem Gambling

Peter Chen, Farah Jindani, and Nigel Turner

This manual is intended for an 8-session mindfulness group, aimed at people experiencing problems with gambling and who wish to add to their relapse prevention skills. The manual includes lesson plans for the 8 sessions, as well as handouts for clients.  

Download a pdf copy of the manual, or read the manual online. An updated version of this manual is available in GREO's Evidence Centre.

Mindfulness Based Relapse Prevention for Problem Gambling Handouts for Clients

Session 1

Handout 1, Session 1: Stepping out of automatic pilot

Session 2

Handout 1, Session 2: Developing awareness and coping with cravings and barriers to practice

Handout 2, Session 2: Mindfulness based relapse prevention for problem gambling

Handout 3, Session 2: Meditation techniques

Session 3

Handout 1, Session 3: Bringing mindfulness to everyday activities

Handout 2, Session 3: The 3-step breathing space or the three B's of presence

Session 4

Handout 1, Session 4: Being mindful when at risk to gamble

Handout 2, Session 4: Walking meditation

Handout 3, Session 4: High risk situations

Session 5

Handout 1, Session 5: Cultivating a different relationship to experience through acceptance and clear seeing

Handout 2, Session 5: Using the 3-step breathing space when at risk to gamble

Session 6

Handout 1, Session 6: Seeing thoughts as passing mental events

Handout 2, Session 6: Relapse process worksheet

Session 7 

Handout 1, Session 7: Being good to yourself

Handout 2, Session 7: Daily activities worksheet

Session 8

Handout 1, Session 8: Maintaining practice after group ends

Mindful Movement/Yoga Practice

Mindful Movement/Yoga Practice Handout

Video Demonstrations

Seated Twist

Seated Mountain

Cat/Cow in a Chair

Resting Pose

Leg Stretch

Bridge Pose

Arm Stretch 

Appendix 1

Appendix 1: Evaluation Material 

Incorporating a mind/body approach into a problem gambling treatment program webinar recording

This webinar recording discusses the development of a problem gambling program incorporating mindfulness as an adjunct to treatment.