Matt Missar, LCSW, IGDC, ICGC-I

Matt Missar, LCSW, is a clinician with The Better Institute and a graduate from the University of Pittsburgh’s School of Social Work. Matt has certification as an Internationally Certified Gambling Counselor Level-I (ICGC-I) and has also obtained his International Gaming Disorder Certificate (IGDC).

Matt values working with individuals of all ages and has developed a specialization in treating gambling-related concerns, with a particular focus on sports betting and its impact on athletes and young adults. He is passionate about addressing the surge in sports betting and its serious impact on mental health, finances, and relationships across all demographics. Matt has a unique ability to genuinely engage and connect with each client.

In addition to his specialization in gambling-related concerns, Matt also has expertise in working with individuals to address problematic gaming and excessive screen time use. Matt works with adolescents and adults to develop healthier boundaries, improve self-regulation, and create a balanced life.

As a former athlete and coach, Matt also has a strong foundation of working with athletes and esports athletes seeking to improve their performance.

Matt also works closely with the Back in the Game program. As a former athlete and basketball coach, Matt understands the impact that mental health can have on athletic performance and vice versa. Through Back in the Game, Matt has worked with athletes and teams to help them reach their sports performance goals. Matt utilizes the six core mental skills of Back in the Game to help athletes develop mental strength and improve their athletic performance.

He is currently scheduling appointments with adolescents and adults.

Programs with Matt

Back in the Game

Sports Performance Programs for Individuals and Teams

Powered Up

Improve your relationship with video games

Media and Resources from Matt

More teens are getting hooked on gambling. Parents say it often goes undetected

NPR | April 2026

Podcast Appearances

Unpacking Video Game Addiction: Insights with Matt Missar LCSW

The Adaptive Mind | October 2025

S3 Ep2: MuseumLab, Matt Missar on youth gaming, and teens talk about their own interests in video games

Kidsburgh Podcast | August 2025

Healthy Screen Use Resources

Helping you develop a healthier and more sustainable relationship with technology

Contact Matt to Get Started

Matt is currently scheduling appointments with adolescents and adults, focusing on

  • Sports Performance

  • Healthy Gaming

  • Anxiety

  • Stress

  • Problem Gambling

  • Related Mental Health Concerns

Email: matt@betterinstitute.com