TREATNET Family and the United Nations: Family Therapy with Adolescents at Risk of Substance Abuse and Contact with the Criminal Justice System

In 2018, we (LLC and MP) met in person for the first time in the lobby outside a large conference room at the United Nations Office in Vienna. Although we had collaborated previously (Palit & Levin, 2016; Charlés & Samarasinghe, 2016), we had never met face-to-face. In Vienna, we were invited participants in a United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) technical consultation: “Elements of Family-based Treatments for Adolescents with Drug Use Disorders: Creating Societies Resilient to Drugs and Crime.” This consultation meeting included 25 experts across the fields of family therapy, staff from the UNODC PTRS unit, and the World Health Organization, and subject matter experts in substance use disorders and countering violent extremism. The meeting was convened for a memorable week in Vienna, with participants from over 13 countries. The goal of the meeting was “to identify key elements of effective approaches to the treatment of adolescents with drug use disorders and to provide guidance for the development of a UN training package on family therapy.” A key aspect of the “effective approaches” and “guidance” asked of us as a group of technical experts was that we had to consider FT adaptation and implementation in low and middle income countries. The challenge is clear; while research studies in many contexts illustrate how systemic family therapy practices are part of the evidence base, Busse et al. (2021) noted that:

…almost all these studies were conducted in high-income countries and almost all of them were conducted within a research context in university setting. As such, the findings might not be generalisable to studies conducted in LMICs …. Furthermore, adolescents with SUDs and their families in LMICs do not have or very little access to effective treatment such as family-based therapy. To address this accessibility gap as well as to increase quality and diversity of treatment options for adolescents with drug and other SUDs, the Treatnet Family (TF) was developed by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC; 2020). (p. 2)

That package that was begun in 2018 in Vienna is now called Treatnet Family (see below for an example of some of the concepts addressed in the package). Treatnet Family has been a part of feasibility studies, has been implemented in many countries and regions, and involved hundreds of practitioners across the globe. The package is openly accessible at no cost, and as of this writing, has been translated into four languages, with more on the way. We need more multilateral efforts and collaborations like this one, and family therapy as an established field needs to hear much more and much more often about the ways practice must be adapted to meet country contexts across the globe.

A recent publication by Busse et al. (2021) described Treatnet Family (TF) as:

containing elements of evidence-based family therapy which has been developed specifically for adolescents with SUDs and their families in low resource settings. TF focuses on family interactions and uses elements of family therapy to interrupt ineffective communication within the family. It contains the key components of family therapy, such as:

positive reframing (i.e., positive labeling of a negative behavior without necessarily accepting it as fine. It involves emphasizing the possible positive intent behind a seemingly negative behavior),
positive relational reframing (i.e., positive labeling of a negative behavior in relationship to the family without necessarily accepting it as okay. Even when the behavior is self-destructive, the intent behind it can be understood and appreciated, yet not necessarily condoned).
perspective taking (i.e., developing empathy and the ability to take another person’s viewpoint into account).
relational questions (i.e., to support perspective taking, relational questions are asked [e.g., “When Narendra gets into trouble, who feels most sorry for him?”] in order to encourage perspective taking and relational thinking).
going with resistance (i.e., helping family members feel heard and understood, which reduces defensiveness and makes more productive conversations possible).

TF has six sessions, with each session lasting between 90 and 120 minutes. Each session is to be attended by the adolescent with SUDs and his/her family members because the primary focus of the sessions is on the relationships among family members. The practitioner’s role is to interrupt problematic cycles, ineffective communication, and harmful behaviors family members currently use to meet their emotional and interpersonal needs. As change in family interaction can influence each family member’s behavior, family members are encouraged to be part of the solution.” (p. 2)

For more on Treatnet Family: https://www.unodc.org/documents/southeasterneurope/UNODC_Treatnet_Family_brochure_190320.pdf

Definitions

The following are definitions for terms commonly used pertaining to becoming licensed in other states or practicing in other states. The definitions below represent how these terms are used in this article and may not represent how these terms are defined by others:

Portability: Portability or license portability is the general ability to take an individual’s qualifications for a license in one state and apply them for licensure in another state. The term “portability” is used to describe the various methods to allow a licensee in one state to be able to legally provide services to clients in other states, including through model laws, reciprocity, endorsement, or compacts.

Model Laws: Model laws, also referred to as model portability laws, are laws included as provisions within existing state licensure statutes that allow out-of-state licensees to obtain a license in a state in an expedited fashion without having to meet all of the requirements that an associate clinician applying for initial licensure would have to meet. Most MFT state licensure laws contact such model laws allowing an MFT licensed in another state to obtain licensure if they meet certain requirements or have been licensed for several years. Model laws are far more common than licensure compacts. Unlike compacts, the language in model laws can differ from state to state.

Endorsement: Endorsement generally describes laws that allow a state board to recognize or endorse a person’s license granted in another state, allowing that person to become licensed in the endorsing state. The terms “portability” and “endorsement” are commonly used interchangeably.

Reciprocity: Licensure reciprocity is when a state honors and recognizes licensees from certain other states through mutual agreements in other states. However, in the healthcare field, these agreements, which must be approved by officials in each state, are not found in most states pertaining to mental health licensure as states are reluctant to grant reciprocity.

Gujarati Prarthana Pothi Pdf Upd ((better))

A review of the Gujarati Prarthana Pothi reveals it to be an essential spiritual compendium for many Gujarati households, serving as a comprehensive collection of traditional prayers, shlokas, and devotional songs. Content and Key Features

The Prarthana Pothi (literally "Prayer Book") typically compiles a diverse range of spiritual content used for daily worship and auspicious occasions:

Essential Shlokas: Includes foundational Sanskrit and Gujarati shlokas like "Ya Kundendu Tushar" and "Om Purnashya".

Traditional Prayers: Features well-known devotional songs such as "He Ma Sharda," "Asatyo Mahethi," and "Mandir Taru Vishva Rupadu".

Universal Devotion: Often contains widely recognized bhajans like "Raghupati Raghav Raja Ram" and patriotic hymns like "Zanda Uncha Rahe Hamara".

Ethical Guidance: Some editions include instructional songs like "Maa Baapne Bhulso Nahin," emphasizing moral values. Accessibility and Digital Versions

With modern updates, the Prarthana Pothi has become highly accessible in digital formats:

PDF Availability: Digital versions are often available for download through platforms like Scribd or Dadabhagwan.org, making it easier for the younger generation to carry these prayers on mobile devices.

Multimedia Integration: Labels like Soor Mandir have released audio-visual companions to these books, allowing users to listen to the correct pronunciation and melody of the prayers. Strengths and User Perspective

Cultural Preservation: It acts as a bridge for the Gujarati diaspora to maintain their linguistic and spiritual roots. gujarati prarthana pothi pdf upd

Structured Devotion: The organized layout (often divided into parts or themes) helps practitioners follow a consistent daily routine.

Expert Backing: Certain editions, such as the Vaishnav Prarthana Pothi by Pujya Viranandaji Maharaj, are authored by spiritual leaders, lending them high credibility.

If you are looking for a specific version, could you tell me if you need it for school students, daily home worship, or a specific sect like Vaishnavism? Knowing this will help me find the exact PDF or book recommendation for you.

Vaishnav Prarthana Pothi (Gujarati) : Pujya Viranandaji Maharaj

A Gujarati Prarthana Pothi (prayer book) is an essential collection of spiritual hymns, shlokas, and devotional songs used widely in schools, homes, and community gatherings across Gujarat. These books serve as a spiritual guide, helping individuals connect with the divine through morning and evening prayers. Core Content of a Gujarati Prarthana Pothi

Most updated prayer books include a variety of content suitable for different ages and settings:

I'll write a short, original story about a Gujarati prayer book (prarthana pothi) PDF update—concise and suitable for sharing.

Title: નવો પાથરેલ પ્રાર્થનાપોથી (The Updated Prayer Book)

Bhanu's grandmother, Dadi, kept a faded Gujarati prarthana pothi on her puja shelf. Every morning she opened it with reverence, the pages fragrant with incense and memories. One rainy afternoon, Dadi grew worried—her eyesight had dimmed, and the pothi's tiny print had become hard to read. A review of the Gujarati Prarthana Pothi reveals

Bhanu, who lived in the city and worked with computers, visited and noticed Dadi’s struggle. He promised to help. That evening he carefully scanned each page, preserving the hand-drawn borders and the small pencil notes Dadi had added over decades. He cleaned the images, increased the contrast, and used clear Gujarati fonts to retype sections where the ink had faded, always keeping Dadi’s original phrasing untouched.

When Bhanu made a PDF, he added bookmarks for morning and evening prayers and included a simple index in Gujarati so Dadi could jump straight to her favorite bhajans. He also created two versions: one with larger print for Dadi, and a lightweight file for sharing with relatives over messaging apps.

At first, Dadi was hesitant about the digital copy. But when she tapped the tablet and heard the text read aloud in her own familiar accent—Bhanu had recorded her reciting a few lines—the tears came. She felt both comforted and proud: her family’s prayers, scribbles, and blessings were preserved in a new form.

Word spread among relatives. Some requested copies to read on long bus journeys; others wanted to print a fresh pothi for a puja. Bhanu added a note in the PDF explaining pronunciation for a few Sanskrit shlokas and included a short page with meanings in simple Gujarati so younger family members could understand.

Years later, when Dadi passed away, the updated prarthana pothi became a small legacy. Family members who could not attend the rituals opened the PDF and felt connected. Bhanu realized the file was more than convenience—it had woven tradition into modern life, making prayers accessible to those with failing eyesight, those far away, and to the next generation who would carry the old words forward in new ways.

The prarthana pothi in its new digital form stayed true to its heart: a book of devotion, memory, and love—now easier to open for anyone who needed it.

Would you like a longer version, or one tailored for children or for sharing on social media?

Gujarati Prarthana Pothi is a comprehensive collection of traditional prayers and devotional songs used for daily worship, school assemblies, and sacred ceremonies in Gujarati-speaking households. Most updated PDF versions serve as digital songbooks that include lyrics for morning prayers, Shlokas, and Bhajans. WordPress.com Key Features & Content

Modern digital "Prarthana Pothi" collections typically include: Morning Prayers & Shlokas : Essential recitations like Ya Kundendu Tushar Ganesh Stuti Saraswati Vandana Classical Bhajans : Famous compositions such as Vaishnav Jan To Raghupati Raghav Raja Ram Mangal Mandir Kholo Moral & Patriotic Songs : Educational and character-building tracks like Hum Honge Kaamyab Zanda Uncha Rahe Hamara Structured Layout Gorakhpur: While primarily Hindi

: Many versions are divided into "Part 1" and "Part 2," separating basic daily prayers from more advanced devotional kirtans. Top Prayers Included

The following are the most frequently requested prayers found in updated Gujarati Prarthana Pothi PDFs: O Ishwar Bhajiye Tane : A fundamental prayer for gratitude and guidance. Asatyo Mahethi : A prayer seeking truth, light, and immortality. He Maa Sharda : A hymn dedicated to the goddess of knowledge. Vandana Kariye Shri Prabhu Charne : A popular choice for school morning sessions. WordPress.com Availability & Format Digital Access : PDFs are widely available for download on platforms like Archive.org Physical Books : Often published by houses like Shree Hari Pustakalay (approx. 96 pages) or Soor Mandir , which also provides accompanying audio.

: Predominantly in Gujarati script, though some "Nitya Prarthana" editions provide translations or transliterations. to a specific PDF version or a list of for a particular prayer? પ્રાર્થના સંગ્રહ

Since I cannot directly upload or create a downloadable PDF file, I have written a comprehensive article below. This article details what a Gujarati Prarthana Pothi is, the significance of the "UPD" (Update/Revised) versions often sought after, and provides information on how to find the legitimate PDF versions of these sacred texts.

Method 2: Government Digital Libraries

The Gujarat government’s Digital Gujarat portal and the National Digital Library of India have free, public-domain copies of standard Prarthana Pothis.

Method 3: Reputable Education Portals

Websites like Archive.org have user-uploaded copies. Search for "Gujarati Stotra Ratnakar" or "Nitya Prarthana Pothi 2024."

Method 1: Official Religious Trusts (Safest)

Most large mandals release their own edition. Check:

BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha: They offer the "Satsang Prarthana" PDF in Gujarati on their official app (BAPS Swaminarayan App).
Shree Swaminarayan Mandir (Vadtal): Their official website has a digital library.
Geeta Press, Gorakhpur: While primarily Hindi, they offer a Gujarati translation of their "Prarthana Pothi."

ગુજરાતી પ્રાર્થના પોથી PDF અપડેટ શા માટે ઉપયોગી છે?

ગુજરાતી પ્રાર્થના પોથી PDF અપડેટ ઘણા કારણોસર ઉપયોગી છે:

સુલભતા: આ ફાઇલ કોઈપણ ડિવાઇસ પર વાંચી શકાય છે.
પ્રાર્થનાઓનો સંગ્રહ: આ ફાઇલમાં ગુજરાતી પ્રાર્થનાઓનો સંગ્રહ છે.
મફત અથવા ઓછા ખર્ચે: ઘણી વેબસાઇટ્સ આ ફાઇલ મફત અથવા ઓછા ખર્ચે પ્રદાન કરે છે.

Afghan Family Evacuees: “Not just here for themselves.”

I (LLC) interviewed Alexandra “Xan” Weber, International Institute for New England’s (IINE) Senior Vice President for Advancement. IINE was founded in 1918, and is a non-profit social service organization that serves refugees and immigrants through resettlement, education, livelihood/career advancement and support for the journey toward citizenship. Responsible for resource development, advocacy, and strategic initiatives, Xan oversees the organization’s fundraising, institutional partnerships, advocacy initiatives, and strategic planning. She began her career at IINE in 2008 as IINE’s Director of Community Services, managing the Boston site’s refugee resettlement program, various victim services projects, and behavioral health services. IINE is an affiliate of the United States Committee for Refugees and Immigrants, and one of the nine national networks contracted with the U.S. Department of State to resettle Afghan evacuees. In 12 weeks, IINE resettled over 450 Afghan evacuees throughout New England.

Laurie: What are the most important things that clinicians need to know about this group?

Xan: In my presentations to the community, I often list everything that refugees usually go through—statelessness and forced migration, violence, war. This population faced an additional challenge—evacuation, an additional trauma. At IINE, we’re not used to receiving evacuated populations who have had no time to prepare and process their resettlement. Afghan evacuees did not prepare for resettlement and I think that that in itself has created another layer of suffering. We are meeting many Afghans who do not have a sense of refugee identity. Evacuees made a life or death decision to evacuate—a lot to process in just a short amount of time. And we’ve heard the actual evacuation itself was horrible and traumatic. People rushing the airports and tarmacs and getting trampled, getting pulled over barbed wire fencing to reach an airplane, some people making it onboard and others not and families separated.

Afghan evacuees were air evac’ed from Afghanistan to a third country, and this step added to the complexity of their resettlement process. From overseas bases, evacuees were flown to Dulles Airport in Virginia and then dispersed to military bases in the U.S. A shuffling between U.S. bases in multiple countries is not the typical refugee experience, and when they arrived at U.S. bases, most lacked processing documentation. Lack of documentation impacted evacuees’ sense of