Addiction Professionals of North Carolina announces two new centers to address behavioral health workforce and gambling crises in North Carolina

RALEIGH, N.C., Sept. 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Addiction Professionals of North Carolina, the voice of the state's addiction field, announced two new centers funded by the NC Division of Mental Health/Developmental Disabilities/Substance Use Services: the Center of Excellence for Addiction Policy and Practice (CEGAPP) and the Professional Development Center (PDC). As the addiction association, APNC strives to both support and bolster the behavioral health workforce and remain on the forefront of issues the field is facing.

CEGAPP

Since the deregulation of sports betting on personal devices, gambling has become more common among all demographics in North Carolina. CEGAPP tackles growing problem gambling and gambling addiction by equipping addiction providers with the tools and resources to assist individuals facing problem gambling, ensuring state policies support effective prevention, treatment, and recovery, and increasing public awareness.

"Gambling is the most accessible addiction in our society today, yet behavioral health has historically not addressed it with the urgency it deserves," said Sara Howe, Chief Executive Officer of APNC. "That's why we created this new center — to become the leader on this issue. Addressing gambling addiction requires a comprehensive approach, and we are committed to driving change from every avenue necessary."

What to Expect from CEGAPP:

• Resources for providers
• Education and trainings on gambling prevention, treatment, and recovery
• Thought leadership on problem gambling and gambling addiction
• Policy initiatives that support gambling prevention, treatment, and recovery

PDC

The PDC is designed to strengthen the core professional skills essential to the addiction workforce. Through training, mentorship, and leadership development, the PDC equips professionals with the practical skills needed to be successful throughout their careers.

"Workforce development has been a focus for several initiatives in our field, but APNC members noticed a gap between workforce and professional development," said Executive Vice President, Morgan Coyner. "Once we recruit individuals into our field, how do we ensure they are successful and prepared for not just their current job but a dynamic career path? That's what the PDC was created to address."

What to Expect from the PDC:

• A focus on professional development skills (professional etiquette, communication skills, workplace habits, etc.)
• Education and training to enhance leadership, supervision, and organizational effectiveness
• Connecting emerging professionals with experienced leaders to foster growth, retention, and advancement

For more info on either of these new programs, please email [email protected], or visit apnc.org.

About APNC:

Addiction Professionals of North Carolina (APNC) is the professional trade association for substance use professionals and providers in North Carolina. APNC provides a collective voice for individuals, providers, and the communities they serve, advocating for effective policies, offering technical assistance, and fostering collaboration across the industry. APNC supports the behavioral health frontline workforce through education, advocacy, and innovative programs aimed at improving the health and wellness of North Carolina residents. For more information, visit: apnc.org

MEDIA CONTACT:

Morgan Coyner, Executive Vice President

[email protected]

SOURCE Addiction Professionals of North Carolina