start playing in demo or strictly limited modes while you monitor their progress and keep therapy appointments. This kind of monitored exposure can be part of a harm-reduction plan moving forward.

Finally, in situations where a person is close to crisis, combine immediate safety steps with professional referrals and family-supported accountability; one practical step often used by VIP managers is to arrange temporary financial oversight while booking the first therapy appointment, and then reassess after 30 days.

If the person agrees to a monitored return plan, it’s still wise to set that plan in writing with clear metrics for success and failure, and the simplest way to test a plan is a 30-day monitored trial with weekly check-ins; if they cannot meet the trial criteria, stronger restrictions should be considered. As a transitional step, some players prefer to use alternatives — and if that’s acceptable, they might start playing in strictly limited, documented ways as part of a supported reintroduction that includes therapy and financial oversight.

## Sources

– Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction (CCSA) — resources on gambling harms.
– Gamblers Anonymous — peer support model and meeting directories.
– Clinical literature on CBT for gambling disorder (summarized and adapted into practice by clinicians).

## About the Author

I worked as a VIP client manager for online gaming platforms for seven years and supported dozens of players through escalation, intervention, and recovery planning; my writing blends that on-the-ground experience with standard clinical guidance and harm-reduction practices. I live in Canada and have coordinated with financial institutions, therapists, and operator compliance teams to implement practical, humane interventions.

If you’re reading this because you’re worried about someone — start with one specific, calm observation and the Quick Checklist; if there is immediate danger, call emergency services or local crisis lines right away.