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Free Counselling and Rehabilitation Services

Are you concerned about your own or someone else's gambling? Help is available! To prevent problem gambling from progressing, the Gambling Authority funds 100% free professional counseling and rehabilitation services for individuals and affected family members.

Phone Support

19777

Free. Confidential. Available weekdays, during working hours.

WhatsApp Us

Start a chat

Chat privately with a trained counsellor, wherever you feel comfortable.

USSD Support

*228#

Dial *228# and access all Responsible Gambling services in real-time

Ways to Get Support

Things you can do right now

One way to get support

Request counselling

Free, professional counselling and rehabilitation services are available through the Gambling Authority for anyone affected by gambling, as one of several ways to get help.

One-on-One Sessions

Work with a trained counsellor in a safe, confidential environment to understand and address your gambling behaviour.

Appointment Scheduling

Book an appointment online through your customer portal. Choose from in-person or virtual sessions.

Family Support

Support is available for family members and friends who are affected by someone else's gambling.

Request Counselling
Directory

Our Counsellors

Trained counsellors across Botswana. All sessions are free and confidential.

Browse Local Counseling Matches

RG communications UAT counsellor

UAT provider - not a real referral destination
blekolwane@gamblingauthority.co.bw

Therapeutic Care House - Tshegofatso Mmolawa

Letlhakane
therapeuticcarehouse@gmail.com 71631429

Peo Psychology Consultancy - Vonile Tladi

Gaborone
vonile@peopsych.co.bw 74355133

Empire Health - Mavis Madumetse

Gaborone
mavismadumetse@gmail.com 72945065

Psych Matters - Dr. Morekwe Selemogwe

Gaborone
accounts@psychmatters.co.bw 74421445

New Beginnings - Dr. Tshidi Wyllie

Gaborone
newbeginningsnbcc18@gmail.com 72176581

Cartharsis Training & Consulting Institute - Kesaobaka Raroki

Gaborone
catharsis.institute@gmail.com 72179357

Kaelo Psychosocial - Dr. Layani Makwinja

Gaborone
kaelo.services@gmail.com 75065356

Losame Consultancy - Kgabiso Senau

Serowe
losameconsultancy@gmail.com 71790340

Gaborone Rehabilitation Centre - Tshepiso Teseletso

Gaborone
tteseletso@gmail.com 74070001/ 3111025

Fish and Hope Wellness - Mosiakgabo Tlhapi

Gaborone
fishandhopemental@gmail.com 73865273

Sandbox Test Counsellor 1

Sandbox test counsellor
Gaborone
masido2010+counsellor1@gmail.com +26775497715
Languages: English, Setswana

Sandbox Test Counsellor 2

Sandbox test counsellor
Gaborone
masido2010+counsellor2@gmail.com +26775497715
Languages: English, Setswana

Sandbox Test Counsellor 3

Sandbox test counsellor
Gaborone
masido2010+counsellor3@gmail.com +26775497715
Languages: English, Setswana

Sandbox Test Counsellor 4

Sandbox test counsellor
Gaborone
masido2010+counsellor4@gmail.com +26775497715
Languages: English, Setswana

Sandbox Test Counsellor 5

Sandbox test counsellor
Gaborone
masido2010+counsellor5@gmail.com +26775497715
Languages: English, Setswana

To book an appointment, sign in or register and request counselling from your account.

Request Counselling
FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Under what circumstances does the GA act?

The Gambling Authority acts when direct evidence points to systematic exploitation, legal fraud, or extreme mental vulnerability linked to regulatory compliance failures.

What is the National Exclusion Programme?

The programme provides protective pathways for those experiencing gambling difficulties. It enforces legally binding access blocks across all Botswana licensed operations.

Does exclusion apply to online gambling?

Yes, our centralized system synchronizes directly with mobile sportsbooks, casinos, and virtual operators nationwide within 24 hours.

How does the National Exclusion Register work?

The National Exclusion Register is the authoritative list used by licensed operators to identify excluded persons and refuse gambling access in line with Motshameko O Phepa player-protection rules.

Is my information kept confidential?

Yes. Exclusion records are treated as sensitive personal data and are shared only with authorised operators and officials for enforcement and support purposes under Botswana data-protection law.

Where can I get more help?

Call the national helpline, visit the Contact Us page, take the self-assessment, or browse the Support directory for free counselling options near you.

What is self-exclusion?

Self-exclusion is a voluntary protective measure that lets you ask the Gambling Authority to block your access to licensed gambling venues and operators in Botswana for a chosen period.

Can I cancel my self-exclusion?

Yes. You may request cancellation of your self-exclusion when you feel that you are ready. The process involves a review to ensure you are making an informed decision.

How long does self-exclusion last?

You choose the duration when you apply. Options typically range from short-term cooling periods through longer protective terms, depending on the pathway and your circumstances.

Can I cancel my self-exclusion early?

Yes. Self-exclusion in Botswana is voluntary. You choose the duration when you apply, and you can cancel your exclusion at any time when you feel ready. To cancel, contact the Gambling Authority directly or visit your nearest office with valid identification.

What happens after I apply for self-exclusion?

Your application is reviewed and, once approved, your details are entered on the National Exclusion Register so licensed operators can refuse service and support your protective decision.

Will gambling operators know about my exclusion?

Licensed operators receive the information they need to enforce your exclusion at the door and at point of play. Your information is shared only for player-protection purposes.

Who can apply for third-party exclusion?

Eligible third parties include immediate family members, registered guardians, or legal dependants whose livelihoods are severely compromised.

What is third-party exclusion?

Third-party exclusion allows an eligible family member or guardian to request protective exclusion for someone whose gambling is causing serious harm, subject to Gambling Authority review.

Does the person need to consent?

No, the Authority will launch an independent evaluation and diagnostic process to safeguard the individual, including mandatory notifications.

Can a third-party exclusion be overturned?

Third-party exclusions follow a formal review process. Changes or lifts require Gambling Authority assessment and cannot be reversed casually by the applicant alone.

You don't have to face this alone

Taking the first step is often the hardest part. Our team is here to listen, support, and guide you — no judgement, no pressure.