About Us

The Virginia Partnership for Gaming and Health (VPGH) at Virginia Commonwealth University aims to inspire hope, build support, and foster solutions that empower every Virginian seeking to transform their lives from problem gambling. VPGH is funded by the Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services (DBHDS) and also partners with the Virginia Council on Problem Gambling so eligible Virginia Problem Gambling Helpline callers (and others) receive direct referrals for treatment and recovery services in their community. If needed, VPGH covers the cost of treatment to ensure every support seeker's recovery needs are met. VPGH provides no-cost, evidence-based training on problem gambling to its network of clinicians and peer recovery specialists.

Our Mission

Our mission is to inspire hope, build support, and foster solutions to empower every Virginian seeking to transform their lives from problem gambling. We are dedicated to promoting wellness and cultivating strong communities where individuals can thrive.

Our vision is to inspire hope, build support and foster solutions.

VPGH Goals

At Virginia Partnership for Gaming and Health (VPGH), we are dedicated to supporting Virginia residents on their journey to recovery. Our treatment and recovery model ensures everyone has access to the help they need. Here's how it works:

Our Treatment and Recovery Process:

Reach Out for Support

Call the Virginia Helpline (888-532-3500) or complete our online referral form.

Connection with a Certified Peer Recovery Specialist (CPRS)

One of our VPGH staff Certified Peer Recovery Specialist (CPRS) will reach out within 24-48 hours.

Screening and Access to Services

Everyone seeking help can participate in further screening to identify the right treatment and recovery services. We ensure this step is inclusive and not dependent on your insurance status.

Coordinated Care

Your CPRS will coordinate your treatment and recovery process, connecting you to appropriate resources and services tailored to your needs.

Ongoing Support

Recovery is a journey, and we're with you every step of the way. Your CPRS will maintain regular follow-ups to ensure you stay on track and have the support you need.

For more information on joining VPGH's network of providers, please reach out to vpghinfo@vcu.edu.

Our Team

A headshot of Caroyln Hawley

Carolyn E. Hawley, PhD, CRC

Director of the Virginia Partnership for Gaming and Health

Professor, Rehabilitation Counseling

Jennifer Davis-Walton

Jennifer Davis-Walton

Director of Gambling Services

Emma Freeman

Azeem Majeed

Elizabeth Childress

Lisa Cochran

Sean Fournia

Sean Fournia

Peer Recovery Specialist

Matthew E Britt

Matthew E. Britt

Peer Recovery Specialist

Shruti Sampath

Shruti Sampath

VPGH Clinical Coordinator