Think Different: Abuse Prevention & Support is a trauma-informed, psycho-educational course for ages 8–18.
It combines psychology, safeguarding, and mindfulness practices to help participants build resilience, regulate emotions, and discover healthier ways of relating to themselves and others.
The programme is already running at The Khaya Centre in Lehae, Johannesburg, a community centre supporting over 1,000 children. In November 2025, we will train staff at a second Johannesburg community centre and at a rehabilitation centre, extending the programme’s reach to even more young people and caregivers.
Why It's Different
Think Different goes beyond “what not to do.” It explores the why — the subconscious influences, trauma responses, and cultural beliefs that drive harmful behaviour. By addressing these root causes, participants learn how to regulate emotions, build self-worth, and create positive change.
The course draws on:
Psychodynamic, Gestalt & Humanistic psychology
Trauma recovery models
Wellness practices including meditation, yoga, and breathwork
Evidence and guidance from Women’s Aid, NSPCC, and global safeguarding leaders
Course Structure
The course consists of 8 modules with 24 interactive lessons (3 per module). Each lesson blends teaching, activities, reflection, and wellness practices.
Modules include:
Empowered Self-Worth
self-esteem, resilience, and inner strength
Gender Equality & Inclusion
diversity, stereotypes, and respect
Emotional Intelligence
emotional regulation and stress resilience
Conflict Management
constructive communication and negotiation
Psychology of the Self
self-identity, beliefs, and resilience
Healthy Relationships
boundaries, consent, and equality
Trauma & Abuse
recognising harm, recovery, and safeguarding
Future Potentials
aspirations, personal growth, and goal setting
Course Aims
Prevent abusive and unwanted behaviours
Reduce negative, harmful thoughts
Strengthen resilience and stress tolerance
Build self-worth and self-esteem
Improve emotional regulation and coping skills
Provide practical tools to face adversity and challenges
Impact So Far
To date, Think Different has reached 200 children and 60 adults in South Africa through community centres including the Khaya Centre.
Measured outcomes included:
Reduced aggression and abusive behaviour
Improved self-worth and emotional regulation
Greater feelings of safety and connection
Increased empathy and compassion
The ripple effect extended far beyond the classroom: children taught friends what they learned, and were often heard chanting the “I can do it!” song, and later adapting it to “You can do it!” with their friends.
Powerful discussions emerged too. Girls as young as nine described rape and teenage pregnancies as common experiences. Others believed men should not show emotions, or that hitting women was acceptable when stressed. Through open dialogue, these harmful beliefs were challenged and replaced with healthier, more equal perspectives.
Training for Educators & Staff
We provide Think Different Training for educators, community workers, and staff who may be experiencing or supporting others through trauma.
Training covers:
Neuroscience of the brain, behaviour, and emotions
The impact of trauma and recovery approaches
Safeguarding and support strategies
Full walk-through of all 8 modules
Tools for emotional regulation and mental resilience
Participants receive:
24 detailed lesson plans (3 per module)
A comprehensive training handbook
Student handouts and activities
Guided meditations (audio and written)
Yoga flows (printable and video)
Psychological evaluation tools to measure impact
A Training Pack including trauma recovery templates and practical ideas
Delivery
Training is delivered as either two full days, or four sessions of 2.5 hours each. The course can be adapted for schools, public servants, NGOs, or community groups, making it flexible and accessible across different contexts.