“Gambling: How Do You See It?” is the theme of an 11^th annual held at Novi Suburban Collection Showplace, 46100 Grand River Ave. from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Presented by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, the event includes keynote discussions by Tania Lodge, clinical director of the Akron-based Minority Behavioral Health Group and Dr. Ciara Dennis-Morgan, the Minority Health Group’s clinical coordinator.

Scheduled topics include “Jackpot, Winning and the Illusion of Solving All My Problems by Gambling,” “Understanding Military Culture and Treatment for Disordered Gambling in Military and Veterans,” and “Gambling Disorder Prevention Efforts.”

“We know that problem gambling is an issue in Michigan, as it is across the country,” says Lynn Sutkin, spokesperson for the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services.

Michigan’s status as a state with multiple casinos may be a factor in the challenge among local gamblers, but isn’t the sole contributor, Sutkin says.

“Gambling takes many forms, whether it’s casinos, scratch-offs, or online,” she adds.

The seminar will also feature an observation of Gamblers Anonymous in activities with their members.

The combination of professionals and those who’ve personally experienced gambling as a problem is expected to make the conference an informative event.

“This is an opportunity for subject matter experts to get together and talk about best practices,” says Sutkin.

For more information about the symposium, call (517) 374-6848 or e-mail cward@cmham.org.

  Gamblers Anonymous, Michigan Department of Health and Human Services