I can't believe that I finally a book that really says it like it is. Slot machines are a passion for me and I got all the books out there that tell me how to win. But Ian's book tells me how I am not winning. I got his book after hearing him interviewed on local radio station. I read the thing and I am amazed. I never knew how slots worked and now I know how. I used his hints just the other day and man it works! I didn't spend all my money and I did have a more happy time at the casino. Those other writers just promote fluff. Ian really does know what he is talking about. I know that this book will be a super best seller and too bad I can't give it 10 stars! Jeremy

.... Ian B. Williams is a former slot machine technician. This puts him into a very special place in knowing all about slot machines. He describes how slots are designed and programmed. Blew my mind! He explained all those things that I had known about slot as being garbage. Bravo, Ian, on a book well written. When is your next one out? Tbone

I am a counselor on gambling addiction and was shown a copy of this book at a recent conference. I was quite impressed with the information contained therein. Although Mr. Williams writes for the players of slot machines, his insite into slot machine addiction is true and parallels what we know to be statistically factual: that those whom are addicted to slot machines get there from believing in the wrong information put out in books and newspapers and, of course, on television. This book is the only one on slot machines so far to address this issue and we were so impressed by it that we are adding it as a reference guide to our training material. It is controversial and will definately raise some eyebrows. It may also help some addicts to get their disease under control. We feel it will. Jason

This is a great little book for both the lay public and professionals. I highly recommend it. It provides a good, solid scientific understanding of addiction in simple language and offers the reader useful guidelines about moving beyond sobriety and toward cure. --Fred P. Gallo, Ph.D., Author of "Energy Psychology" and "Energy Tapping."

This book is very informative. It is a great tool for those who need to understand themselves.

This is an excellent and cutting edge explanation of addiction that ties together not only chemical dependencies but process dependencies. Also a very hopeful book in that answers are presented and current approaches validated and explained as to why they are working for those who apply them. Give it a read!

A professionally written book with a timely topic.

This book provides the information our staff were looking for.

Just what our organization needed to address gambling addictions in older adults. The kit is also very useful.

Not everyone is a candidate for 12-step programs like Alcohol Anonymous. Clinical psychologist A. Thomas Horvath provides an alternative to 12-step in Sex, Drugs, Gambling, & Chocolate: A Workbook for Overcoming Addictions. He says "the purpose of this workbook is to draw together ideas and techniques that have been well studied and used in the field of addiction psychology and to present them in one readable workbook."
Dr. Horvath begins with the concept that addiction is a habit, and like other habits, it can be changed. While addiction usually has worse consequences than most habits, and changing it can be extremely difficult, it is still a habit, and it can be changed. He defines addiction as "repeated involvement with anything, despite excessive costs, because of craving." He adds that "an addiction is a type of relationship between an individual and [a] substance or activity." The idea that the person is a victim of the substance or activity is erroneous.
He divides his workbook into chapters on the perceived benefits of addiction, the costs of addiction, understanding and coping with craving, choices, and building a new life. Each chapter has an overview, followed by a detailed discussion of the subject. Then comes questions which help readers connect the information to their personal circumstances. Each chapter also includes two or three simple projects designed to help individuals apply the previous information in their lives. Chapters end with a section titled "What's Important Now?" which give readers an opportunity to record their personal growth.
Horvath is at all times encouraging and supportive, realizing that change comes in small increments. He also keeps his advice very practical and doesn't resort to jargon or "psychobabble." He maintains that we all have choices, and recognizes that people feel resentment when told that they have to overcome addictive behavior. Horvath says "regardless of what anyone else thinks, its up to you what happens with your addiction."
Sex, Drugs, Gambling, & Chocolate is designed for those who are choosing to overcome any addictive behavior and need practical help with achieving their goal. Horvath's workbook is based on taking personal responsiblity for your behavior and does not require total abstinance or turning your life over to a "Higher Power," unless you choose to do so.

This book is truly a helpful book about overcoming addictions or any "behavior" problem/habit. Dr. Horvath shows his readers how to recognize and overcome a variety of addictive habits WITHOUT a 12-Step approach (which, DOES NOT work for everyone). If you are not comfortable with the same old 12-step approach and you have some sort of "addiction" to overcome, whether it be eating, alcohol, drugs, shopping, whatever, this book is for you! Even if your "habits" are moderate. Dr. Horvath can clearly show you another way . . . a much better way. This book is the best I've seen so far, next to "Addiction is a Choice." THIS is the book that Oprah needs to talk about!!!

This workbook is loaded with practical suggestions and will appeal to anyone who has unsuccessfully sought to overcome a serious addiction or habit using more traditional (i.e. 12 step) treatment approaches. Horvath, whose credentials are extensive and impeccable, leads you step by step through a rethinking process designed to accomplish goals you may have thought impossible. The workbook approach is straighforward and adaptable to a variety of addictive behaviors (over 100 are identified!--you can add your own). The author's warm good humor and tolerance will support you through the tough times. He is there to hold your hand in the darkness and encourage you when you slip. He gives you full credit for your own accomplishments. It's the closest thing to individual therapy you will find in a bookstore (virtual or otherwise). There are many up-to-date references and a useful reading list. Incidentally, the information presented is not hostile towards, or totally incompatible with other approaches to addiction, but is primarily intended for those who want a scientifically proven, rational approach to behavior change.

I found this book helpful, realistic, and compassionate. Don't Leave It To Chance explores myths and misconceptions about gambling, helps us identify the extent of the problem, and guides us through the emotional and financial impact of the disorder. The authors skillfully bring us to a place where we can build a meaningful dialogue with family members, work through anger, anxiety and loss of trust, and begin the process of regeneration with new momentum and understanding. The scope is comprehensive with a style that is personal, enjoyable and logically consistent. I was amazed with the depth of insight into motivation, emotional issues and relationships I was collecting along the way. Written with deep psychological understanding and genuine concern, Don't Leave It To Chance sorts through the difficult emotions of this complex issue, teaching skills for introspection and communication that will serve readers in all aspects of their lives.

I thought this book was extremely enlightening and thorough in it coverage of the disease of compulsive gambling. It is an excellent resource for families of compulsive gamblers in 1) understanding the disease 2) guiding families and friends of gamblers in the actions they need to take in order to protect themselves as well as in helping the gambler move closer to recovery. In addition, this book provides treatment resource info and some evaluation as to the effectiveness of those type of treatments. This book is a comprehensive guide for the families of compulsive gamblers. Extremely helpful and easy to understand.. A++

I have been using these exercises for years and they keep my patients sober. The patients take the book home and go over the material they learned in treatment. This keeps them sober. Most treatment centers use a collection of poor exercies they gathered over the years. Here are all of the great ones in one place. The text covers chemical use history, honesty, steps one through five, and relapse prevention. It's a Great Book!

We use this book for all of our patients. They love the exercises and take them home and go over them again and again. This keeps them thinking about recovery. The book leaves no stone unturned. It has everything a problem gambler needs to stay in recovery.

The issues of older adults and gambling addiction has been discussed for a few years. This educational material has been very helpful to mental health professionals.

A realistic look at a problem for older adults. Very useful for a health care provider.

This educational material has helped provide information about an addiction to gambling and older adults.

Many health care agencies are now raising questions about older adults and gambling problems. This educational kit is an excellent way to train staff. Good job.

I thought this book is one of the most thorough and helpful books regarding dealing with gambling addiction. It enlightens on how you can protect yourself from the throes of gambling. It provides information that will help you understand and deal with the illness. Excellent book!

Educators are hearing and seeing evidence of problems with youth and gambling - this book addresses the issue very well.