About us
Chithuen Phendhey Association
The seeds of Chithuen Phendhey Association (CPA) were sown in 2007 by a group comprising of recovering addicts, who had experienced the trials and tribulations of substance abuse. While alcohol was easily accessible, the abuse of other substances, especially pharmaceutical products and marijuana was on the rise in Bhutan. On the other side, there were no formal or informal organization to prevent, assist and treat people, especially youth who were becoming victims of this social menace. CPA began as a small informal organization and is today the only civil society organization (CSO) fully dedicated to preventing, treating and rehabilitating substance abusers.
In 2011, CPA was formally registered as a civil society organization (CSO). This formal recognition facilitated CPA to seek support from the government and other agencies to secure funds for its activities. At the initial stages, support was wholly provided by His Majesty’s Secretariat. As a CSO, the activities of CPA has reached all parts of the country.
Today, the Association also has a recovery center called the Center for Happiness, located at Taba, Thimphu, which can house upto 75 people seeking support and treatment. In terms of capacity too, the Association has grown in strength, with independent, trained and certified counselors providing treatment at the Center. Additionally, there are other staff looking after different programs.
“Implement crosscutting programs in preventing, rehabilitating and reintegrating those affected by drugs and alcohol to live a productive, prosperous and happy life.”
“To become a premier civil society organization (CSO) spearheading and promoting drug and alcohol free society in Bhutan.”
1. Prevention
- Undertake advocacy, education and intervention on Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE).
- Promote children’s mental and emotional health through evidence-based child development and awareness programs.
- Undertake awareness programs on drugs and alcohol and other related issues to the general public; and
- Undertake programs and activities to reduce risk factors and increase protective factors.
2. Treatment
- Provide easy access, effective and timely rehabilitation treatment, training and guidance.
3. Reintegration
- Improve the quality of life and living conditions of the recovering individuals;
- Provide livelihood skills development trainings to enable them to take up gainful employment; and
- Provide comprehensive post-care programs and support services to prevent relapse and sustain recovery meaningfully.
