Many times it is the spouse, partner, or family member who makes the initial contact for intervention and treatment. Look for a treatment provider who will accommodate families, and expect a variety of options beyond financial fixes. In fact, avoid any treatment settings where the primary topic of therapy is the financial problem.
Finances are only a symptom of the disorder.
It is the relationship that, too, is sick. For example, it is likely that a gambling counselor won't be able to provide adequate marital therapy at the same time providing specific help to the gambler. A well trained gambling counselor will utilize community based resources and make referrals to consumer credit, legal aid, financial and tax experts, and marital and family counseling. The gambler may be still be actively gambling, so getting help to the family is imperative. Unfortunately, family often do not understand what's wrong with the gambler.