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ABOUT THE COURSE
Through course work, hands-on activities, group discussions and combining practical steps with mental and emotional tools, you will learn about trauma and its effects, coping and self-care tools, identify the coercion associated with exploitation, obtain the ability to make plans and goals towards full-rounded independence, and pursue educational and professional goals.
Each section of the 14-week course has a specific theme or focus, and each week will consist of a 90-minute workshop plus handouts, exclusive practical tools. and other resources, additional optional worksheets, checklists, trauma-informed care, resources plus other bonus items like journal prompts, mindfulness, self-care practices, and much more.
Self Designed Life is survivor-developed with the guidance of clinical perspectives and expertise. The course is both trauma- and survivor-informed, and has been used successfully in survivor programs and recovery groups.

Is this course for me?

This course was developed by Survivors for Survivors who have rescued themselves, left the circumstances of their exploitation, and are building their lives towards freedom.
Yes!
If you are...
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Designing a new life
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In a generally safe environment
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Looking for personal and professional development
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Ready for your next steps, healing, and growth
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Seeking additional support and tools for your 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
...then this course is for you!
This course is ideal for all transitions of life a Survivor may be in. Whether you are in the early stages of physical, financial, or emotional independence, have recently made a major change, or are simply seeking out more support and tools on their healing journey, this course has something for every stage of growth!




What's in the course?

Each 90-minute session of the 14-week course has a specific focus, and each week also includes handouts and workbook activities, plus bonus items like journal prompts, mindfulness, self-care practices, and more.
Course Features
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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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Guided meditations and/or mindfulness activities
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Private online Facebook 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 SDL Online Community, library of resources and access to apply for continuing education & other programs provided by i-5 Freedom Network



Course Outline
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 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 & Parenting
Week Eleven-Thirteen: You are Magic
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Post-Trauma Growth, Healing & Future
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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 Preview

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