Problem Gambling Program

Peopleworks understands how gambling can get out of control

We are caring and nonjudgmental staff who want to help gamblers, family members or friends cope with disordered gambling. We offer sessions in person in Rio Rancho or via video to anyone in the state of New Mexico without charge. You do not have to commit to treatment – you can book an informational session. You may also book a time to discuss your concerns about someone else’s gambling without charge.

We also offer 1:1 financial coaching by phone to persons struggling with gambling or their family members.

We understand your need for confidentiality

And we understand that you need to know who we are

Please call or Email us to inquire about services.

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505-990-4186

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peopleworksnm@gmail.com

Counseling Staff

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Cindy Anderson, MSW, LCSW, ICGC-I

Cindy has been counseling gamblers for several years and has 45+ hours of training in gambling counseling. She obtained her International Gambling Counselor Certification in January 2018, which required study, supervision and passing an exam. She has a heart to help those involved in this lesser known addiction, and to help those in our community identify and prevent the devastation of this addiction.

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Lojann Hooee, LADAC

Lojann has a passion for helping people with gambling disorder. She currently works as a LADAC with San Felipe Behavioral Health, but is available to treat gamblers with Peopleworks-NM, via telehealth or in person at our Rio Rancho office. Lojann has previously managed a Tobacco Cessation and Problem Gambling prevention program at Acoma Pueblo. She has a wealth of education and knowledge regarding problem gambling.

Prevention/Education Staff

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Pamela Olsen, MA, LMHC

Pamela has worked at CNM for many years as an Achievement Coach. She worked with students who struggled with many life issues, including gambling problems. She also observed close family members who had disordered gambling behavior. She has 36 hours of education on disordered gambling. She finds her prevention and education work with Peopleworks to be very fulfilling and is available to counsel gamblers.

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Samantha Fernando

Bio coming soon.

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Susie Koestner, MA, LMHC

Susie is a bilingual English/Spanish speaker and has worked on community based projects in the Southwest US, and Latin America. She brings a wealth of experience and enjoys learning about cultural perspectives. She has served as an Achievement Coach, and Academic Advisor and has 12 years experience as a licensed Mental Health Counselor,. She is excited to join our team, and will assist with prevention and educational outreach since she has learned about the negative impact of disordered gambling on peoples’ lives. Hopefully in the near future she will also provide counseling to those struggling with gambling.

Financial Coaching Staff

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Dawn Esquibel, Vice President

Dawn has been teaching financial management courses for over seven years. She relates to the struggles of the average person and has multitude of strategies for helping improve your financial situation. Dawn is here to assist those struggling with managing their finances due gambling or other various money management challenges. Dawn will only be provided your first name and a way to contact you.