The National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) was founded in 1972 by concerned individuals to advocate for the creation of treatment services for compulsive gamblers and their families. NCPG also provides information on problem gambling for the public and referral services through its Helpline to problem gamblers and others affected by the problem.

The Connecticut Council on Problem Gambling (CCPG) was founded in 1980 and became the first affiliate council of the NCPG. CCPG's relationship with other affiliate councils is based on common goals and on a frequent sharing of ideas, materials and resources. For additional information regarding NCPG and its affiliates, see our Links page.

In 1981, CCPG collaborated with legislators in Connecticut in the successful effort to pass legislation to create, in 1982, the first state operated treatment program in the United States. A close working relationship developed between CCPG and the Department of Mental Health and Addictions Services (DMHAS). CCPG also actively collaborates with the state gambling regulatory agency, the gambling industry and a number of community organizations.

In 1994 CCPG realized its goal of establishing a 24-hour Helpline serving three states (CT, MA, and RI). Referrals are primarily made to specialized treatment services and to Gamblers Anonymous and Gam-Anon. Yearly statistical Helpline summaries have been valuable in profiling a year-to-year portrait of problem gamblers.

In 1986 and 1989, CCPG conducted the first statewide studies on gambling and problem gambling among high school students.

In 2003, Central Connecticut State University collaborated with CCPG on the first comprehensive study in Connecticut among University students.

CCPG is funded primarily by the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation, the Mohegan Tribal Nation and the Department of Mental Health and Addictions Services.