Gambling & Gaming Addiction Therapy for Men in Los Angeles
Therapy for Gambling, Gaming, Substance Use, and Emotional Challenges
Jake Schuster, AMFT
I’m an Associate Therapist focused on supporting men and adolescents through a range of challenges that impact daily life and well-being. Whether you’re struggling with gambling, gaming, or substance use, or facing emotional difficulties like anxiety, anger, or depression, therapy can provide a safe space to explore what’s going on beneath the surface.
Life’s pressures and emotions can sometimes feel overwhelming, leading to patterns of behavior or feelings that are hard to manage alone. My goal is to help you break the patterns that aren’t serving you, explore what’s driving them, and move toward the goals and values that are important to you.
Education, Experience & Journey
While earning my Master’s in Clinical Psychology at Antioch University Los Angeles, I completed my clinical training at Beit T’Shuvah, an inpatient treatment center recognized for its leading gambling addiction program and focus on co-occurring substance use. Following my clinical training, I have provided individual and group therapy at multiple intensive outpatient treatment centers, with a focus on addiction, mindfulness, and life skills work.
In addition to my clinical practice, I provide educational talks at local middle and high schools, where I speak with students about the risks of substance use, gaming, and gambling addictions.
Before becoming a therapist, I earned my bachelor’s degree in Sports Management from the University of Michigan and spent nearly a decade working in sponsorship sales for pro sports and esports teams. In my past career I worked on multiple advertising campaigns with gambling and alcohol brands, and over time, saw firsthand how aggressive and effective these industries have become at targeting young people.
As a lifelong gamer and sports fan, I understand how the line between gaming and gambling has blurred. Between lootboxes & trading cards,, in-game purchases, and nonstop sports betting ads, it’s easier than ever for people to get hooked. My career is focused on helping clients who are struggling with these patterns to reclaim control and build a healthier life.
“My therapeutic approach is rooted in evidence-based cognitive modalities, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and is informed by a humanistic perspective. I’ve received continuing education trainings in areas including:
Problem Gambling
Gaming Addiction
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
Mindfulness Based Relapse Prevention (MBRP)
Mindfulness Based Sports Performance Enhancement (MSPE)
My Services
Gambling Addiction Therapy for Men
Break free from compulsive gambling patterns and regain control over your finances, relationships, and peace of mind. Jake helps men understand the emotional triggers behind gambling and build healthier coping strategies for long-term recovery.
Gaming Addiction
When gaming stops being fun and starts feeling like an escape, therapy can help. Jake supports gamers in setting boundaries, managing stress, and reconnecting with balance and purpose outside the screen.
Substance Use & Mindfulness Recovery
Whether it’s alcohol, cannabis, or other substances, Jake uses mindfulness-based approaches to help clients reduce cravings, prevent relapse, and develop awareness of the thoughts and emotions that fuel addiction.
Therapy for Anxiety, Anger & Depression
Emotional struggles like anxiety, anger, and depression can take a toll on daily life. Jake works with clients to identify root causes, regulate emotions, and create practical tools for a calmer, more fulfilling life.
Fees & Policies
Fees & Payment
My rate for individual sessions is $250. I reserve several sliding scale slots based on financial need. If you’d like to work with me, but the fee we discuss is too high, I will do my best to accommodate. If my sliding scale spots are full I will help make referrals to other wonderful clinicians and provide resources.
Insurance
I am not currently in-network with any insurance plans but am able to provide superbills upon request which you can submit to insurance for potential reimbursement. I encourage you to contact your insurance providers and discuss your coverage.
Location
I see clients in-person in West LA and Pasadena and also offer telehealth sessions for clients residing in California.
Let’s talk
If you feel like we might be a good fit to work together we can set up a free 20 minute phone consultation where you can tell me a little bit about yourself and ask any questions you might have. Please feel free to leave me a message via my confidential email or phone, and I will return your message as soon as possible.
Phone
(213) 803-7154
Email
jakeschustermft@gmail.com
Location
West Los Angeles