Abstract:
Gambling and gaming addiction are rapidly emerging public health concerns that intersect psychology, neuroscience, and social behavior. This talk will explore the underlying mechanisms of these addictions, including the role of reward circuitry, variable reinforcement schedules, and the influence of technology in driving compulsive use. We will examine the overlap and distinctions between gambling disorder and gaming disorder, highlighting how accessibility, cultural normalization, and digital platforms have accelerated their prevalence. Drawing on recent research and real-world case examples, the presentation will address the impacts on individuals, families, and communities, as well as barriers to treatment and recovery. Finally, we will consider strategies for prevention, early intervention, and evidence-based treatment approaches, with a focus on how clinicians, educators, and policymakers can work together to reduce harm and support long-term healing.
Biography:
Matthew Langford is a Clinical and Transpersonal Hypnotherapist, public speaker, and founder of Beyond the Self Healing. As a lead instructor at the Institute of Interpersonal Hypnotherapy, he specializes in helping people heal childhood trauma, release resentment and anger, and access profound states of transformation through techniques such as past life regression, life-between-lives journeys, and spiritual entity release. With a foundation in deep meditation practice, Matthew bridges modern science—neuroplasticity, epigenetics, and mind-body healing—with timeless spiritual teachings from Advaita Vedanta, Ramana Maharshi, Adyashanti, and contemporary visionaries like Dr. Joe Dispenza, Bruce Lipton, and Gregg Braden.
Alongside his private practice, Matthew works with Kindbridge Research Institute and Lotus Behavioral Health to deliver trainings, community outreach, and educational resources around mental health and gambling addiction. He is also creating international retreats that weave together hypnotherapy, meditation, and spiritual exploration. Dedicated to helping others dissolve the burden of thought and awaken to their true nature, Matthew’s mission is to guide people into greater freedom, empowerment, and inner peace.
