About Us

We empower Canadians to defy the odds against gambling.

Back in 2006, our founder, James, was in a downward spiral of drinking, smoking and problem gambling online. After losing his house from his accumulated debt, his family connected him to CAMH, where he was able to get rehabilitation treatment for his alcoholism and gambling addiction. Four years later, he found freedom from his addictions.

Since then he has dedicated his life to helping others in the same way. In 2013, he founded Defy the Odds in hopes that his recovery could be a testimony to those who are in the same position he was over a decade ago. Today, Defy the Odds has helped over 80,000 people take control of their life from problem gambling and find freedom from addiction.

Defy the Odds is a non-profit Canadian organization focused on exposing the risks and dangers of online gambling while cultivating a community to support those who struggle with online gambling. Through counselling, accountability and research we believe Canadians can break the cycle of problem gambling

Our Initiatives

Online Accountability Support

Learn More

Gambling Mental Health Research Program

Learn More

Online & In-Person Counselling

Learn More

Our Partners

Meet the Team

James

[Founder]

I started Defy the Odds in order to help and mentor people struggle with gambling addictions. As a recovering gambling addict myself, I understand the struggles firsthand. My mission is to provide support, education, and resources to those affected, empowering them to reclaim their lives and work towards defying the odds.

Janna

[Outreach Coordinator]

I have spent the last 9 years of my life organizing events for addiction rehabilitation centres. I have a passion for connecting the community and uniting people to support them through their recovery. I’ve been so fortunate to work with Defy the Odds for the past two years as their community outreach coordinator!

Zeta

[Addiction Counsellor]

Over 20 years of experience as a counsellor, specializing in addiction and depression. I have worked with many clients in developing healthy habits to combat gambling addictions. Through Defy the Odds many clients are more informed and have an easier recovery.

Melanie

[Addiction Psychologist]

My passion for helping others in need led me to the field of addiction psychology. Today, I have over 10 years of experience guiding individuals in breaking free from problem gambling. I provide online and in-person counselling services through Defy the Odds, specializing in cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and motivational interviewing.

Faith

[UX/UI Designer]

Faith Innes experienced a troubled past through her family’s negative ties to problem gambling. Working with Defy the Odds as a product designer, she hopes to help others break the cycle of addiction that her family struggled with all throughout her life.

Duaa

[UX/UI Designer]

I watched and helped my partner deal with her gambling addiction over the course of 10 years. Since then it led me to become passionate about helping others and with a background of design my goal is to use design to help as many people and help them Defy the Odds.

Tiffanie

[Web Developer]

Over the past 10 years, I have been given the opportunity to spread awareness of gambling addiction through my experience as a front-end developer. It is my wish to create a welcoming and useful website so that all who visit can easily find all the support and resources they need.

Janice

[Marketing Executive]

After studying marketing, I’ve developed a passion for promoting awareness to help people overcome their addiction. It has been such an honour to work in Defy the Odds for over 8 years.