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About the Course
Self-Designed Life is a 14-week workshop course that began with a vision for more progams tailored to Survivors and their unique needs.
Developed by Survivors, with the guidance of clinical perspectives and expertise, this trauma-informed, restorative program offers Survivors a safe space to process, connect with others who understand their journey, learn from shared wisdom, and build community on their own terms.
Program participants will learn about trauma and its effects, coping skills, self-care tools, identifying coercive control, tools for planning and setting goals, and much more, plus resources to support personal, educational and professional development, and making your self-designed life become a reality.
Each weekly 90-minute session has a specific focus, with course work, activities, group discussions, practical tools and tips, and includes exclusive handouts, resources, bonus items, and much more.
These courses are generously sponsored by i-5 Freedom Network's partners, supporters and donors, and are therefore offered to participants as a scholarship. The courses are open to Survivors of human trafficking, domestic violence, cult upbringing and other forms of exploitation.
Upcoming Cohorts
SPRING COHORT - TUESDAYS
Tuesdays, February 3rd - May 5th, 2026
5:00pm to 6:30pm PST/8:00pm to 9:30pm EST
Via Zoom
SPRING COHORT - THURSDAYS
Thursdays, February 5th - May 7th, 2026
5:00pm to 6:30pm PST/8:00pm to 9:30pm EST
Via Zoom
FALL COHORT - TUESDAYS
Tuesdays, July 28th - October 27th, 2026
5:00pm to 6:30pm PST/8:00pm to 9:30pm EST
Via Zoom
FALL COHORT - THURSDAYS
Thursdays, July 30th - October 29th, 2026
5:00pm to 6:30pm PST/8:00pm to 9:30pm EST
Via Zoom

Who is this Course For?
You! This course was developed by Survivors for Survivors who have rescued themselves and are building their lives on their own terms.
Participants from past Self-Designed Life cohorts were:
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Designing their new life
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Looking for personal and professional development
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Ready for their next steps of healing and growth
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Seeking additional support and tools for their healing journey
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In need of community
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Looking for extra resources
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Ready for advocacy or leadership
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A Survivor leader, service provider, or working with Survivors



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Customized Welcome kit and gift
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14 x 90-minute in-person zoom sessions
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14 Course Modules
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Correlating handouts, resources and fun projects.
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Bonus Community activity gatherings during the course.
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Guest Speakers (Subject to availability)
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Mindfulness tools and activities
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Private online group for support during and after the SDL Course.
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Customized and personalized “Sunshine” Graduation Gift box.
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Certificate of Completion
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Ongoing access to the SDL Online Community, library of resources and access to apply for continuing education & other programs provided by i-5 Freedom Network
Course Features



Week One: Welcome
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Course Introduction & Life Inventory
Week Two-Four: Healing is Not Linear
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Understanding Trauma and Survival
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Grief & Loss; Stages of Grief
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Limiting Beliefs & Foundation Principles
Week Five-Seven: Honoring Your New Life
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Establishing Yourself; Support
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Practical Life, Finances
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Career & Development Goals
Week Eight-Ten: Love and Connection
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Self-love and Self-Care
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Love & Healthy Relationships
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Community, Family & Chosen Family
Week Eleven-Thirteen: You are Magic
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Post-Trauma Growth, Healing & Future Planning
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Polyvagal Method & Mental Health
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Survivor Life, Purpose, & Leadership
Week Fourteen: You Got This!
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Closing Celebrations and Final Life Inventory
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Certificates & Graduation​
Course Outline



Course Preview
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