Richard Rosenthal, MD
Current Board Member and Former President

The Council was founded in 1986 by Dr. Richard Rosenthal.  Dr. Rosenthal has been treating problem gamblers and conducting research on gambling addiction for the past 22 years. He co-authored the DSM-IV diagnostic criteria for pathological gambling and was co-investigator on the first genetic study of the disorder.

In 1990 he created the first inpatient gambling treatment program in the state of California. Between 1995 and 2000, he co-chaired the program committee for the National Conference on Problem Gambling.

He has published approximately 40 articles and book chapters on the phenomenology, course, and treatment of pathological gambling and on other impulsive and self-destructive behaviors.

Dr. Rosenthal is currently co-director of the UCLA Gambling Studies Program and has a private psychiatric practice in Beverly Hills.

In June of 2004, the Board of Directors of the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) presented the Dr. Robert Custer Lifetime Award at a gala during the 18th National Conference on Problem Gambling in Phoenix. The prestigious accolade was awarded to Dr. Richard Rosenthal.

The award was named after problem gambling pioneer Dr. Robert Custer, and is the highest award presented by the NCPG to individuals whose life's work has been in support of problem gamblers and their families. Dr. Rosenthal is the third only recipient of this award.

The Council would like to congratulate Dr. Rosenthal on his achievements and unrelenting dedication to this field. We are honored that he serves as an active member of our Board and appreciate the passion and expertise he brings to the Council. .