The Road to PCGC Certification

Follow this process to apply for and become a Problem and Compulsive Gambling Counselor (PCGC) in Illinois.

Before You Start

Download and read the PCGC Model

The PCGC Model defines the role, functions, and responsibilities of problem and compulsive gambling counselors, and sets the minimum knowledge and skills required for certification. The credential is voluntary, competency based, and experience based.

PCGC Model

Download and read the PCGC Application

Bookmark page 1 (Application Instructions) and page 16 (Application Checklist) for future reference.

PCGC Application

For questions about the Problem and Compulsive Gambling Counselor (PCGC) Model or Application, please contact the Illinois Certification Board directly. Contact information is available at iaodapca.org/About-Us/Contact-Us.

  1. Experience

    See the chart below for required experience.

    • Obtain required work experience
    • Obtain hours of supervised practical experience
    • Complete the ICPG 30-hour Problem Gambling Basic Training. For more information, visit icpg.org/30hour.
    • Obtain additional hours of addiction training/education if needed
    Degree/License/ Certification Level Required Work Experience Supervised Practical Experience Training/ Education Required Examination
    IDPR Licensed Counseling Professionals or CMADC
    One year (2,000 hours) qualified work experience
    N/A
    30 hours
    Gambling specific
    Online
    Master's Level or CSADC
    One year (2,000 hours) qualified work experience in the past three years
    50 hours
    250 hours
    30 of Gambling
    220 of Addiction
    Online
    Bachelor's Level or CRADC
    Two years (4,000 hours) qualified work experience in the past four years
    100 hours
    250 hours
    30 of Gambling
    220 of Addiction
    Online
    Associate's Level or CADC
    Three years (6,000 hours) qualified work experience in the past five years
    150 hours
    250 hours
    30 of Gambling
    220 of Addiction
    Online
    HS Diploma/GED
    Four years (8,000 hours) qualified work experience in the past six years
    200 hours
    250 hours
    30 of Gambling
    220 of Addiction
    Online

  2. Begin PCGC Application

    • Collect the required documentation. You will need:
      • Current job description on agency letterhead, dated and signed by applicant and supervisor (IL Model, page 3, How to Apply #4)
      • Supervised Practical Experience form completed by your supervisor (Application, page 6)
      • Official transcripts, certificates, other documents that support your education (Application, pages 8 and 16)
    • Sign and date Assurance and Release (Application, page 9)

  3. Code of Ethics

    • Read Code of Ethics (Application, pages 10 to 15)
    • Sign, date, and notarize Code of Ethics/Personal Statement (Application, page 15)

  4. Submit Application

    • Go to page 1 of the PCGC Application for detailed instructions on how to submit to IAODAPCA.
    • Send completed application to:
      ICB
      401 East Sangamon Avenue
      Springfield, IL 62702

    For information about financial assistance, please go to Financial Assistance.