What You will Learn

Gaming Disorder is a new and controversial diagnosis. It was recently added to the ICD-11 and is currently under consideration to be included in the next edition of the DSM. For many clinicians and parents, it's a difficult one to understand. What is the difference between a typical, video game-obsessed teen and one with an addiction? Learn about the research behind the disorder, how to spot warning signs, and how to conceptualize treatment for this condition.

  • Understand the research supporting and refuting the existence of Gaming Disorder.

  • Review the relevant models for how gaming can become addictive for people.

  • Learn the diagnostic criteria and how to recognize them in clients.

  • Review evidence-based, client-centered practices to help support clients with a gaming disorder.

Course curriculum

  • 1

    Diagnosis and Treatment of Gaming Disorders (NO CEUs)

    • Welcome to your CEU Webinar

    • Diagnosis and Treatment of Gaming Disorders Objectives

    • Presentation Slides

    • Course Review Survey

Instructor(s)

LCSW

Andrew Fishman

Andrew Fishman, LCSW (he/him) is a therapist who works with teens and emerging adults. He received a Bachelor of Arts degree from New College of Florida, with a double major in psychology and art. After graduating, he spent four years working at a therapeutic school for middle schoolers with emotional and behavioral disorders while pursuing a master’s degree in clinical social work at Loyola University Chicago. Since then, he has conducted individual and family therapy for adolescents dealing with a variety of issues and led both support groups for people with behavioral issue disorders and social groups for autistic teens and adults. Andrew uses a client-centered, humanistic approach to therapy, incorporating elements from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, as appropriate for each client. Andrew has a unique specialty in the impact of video games on mental health. He writes regularly on the subject for Psychology Today online: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/video-game-health “As a life-long gamer, I recognize the many educational and social benefits video games can offer. I also know that, for some, video games can present a serious concern. Because they are often designed to be habit-forming, many players find it challenging to balance their desire to play games with work, chores, family time, homework, and extracurricular activities. Parents may struggle to understand whether these games are harmless fun – a popular way to hang out with friends online – or an isolating obsession. “By helping people identify and examine their values, I help them to find balance in their lives and be the people they want to be.”