What are the Five Ives?
Jessica Doering 
Learn about our framework for understanding personal and systemic wellness!
In the world of trauma care, burnout prevention, and organizational wellness, many well-intentioned efforts fail because they don’t take a structured, holistic approach. That’s why we developed the Five Ives framework—a proven methodology designed to help organizations and individuals move from survival to sustainability.
The Five Ives aren’t just a concept; they are a roadmap for transformation. Whether you're leading a nonprofit, managing a team of first responders, or working in a high-stress environment, understanding these stages can help you assess where you are and what steps to take next.
Why We Developed the Five Ives
Organizations serving trauma-impacted populations often struggle with high turnover, compassion fatigue, and systemic dysfunction. We saw firsthand how traditional workplace wellness programs weren’t addressing the root issues. Leaders needed a clear, practical framework that accounted for both the personal and structural challenges of working in high-stress fields.
The Five Ives framework was born out of this need. It provides a step-by-step guide to help organizations and individuals heal, grow, and ultimately thrive. The goal is not just to prevent burnout but to create environments where people can do their best work without sacrificing their well-being.
The Five Stages of Organizational Healing
1. Survive
At this stage, individuals and organizations are in crisis mode. There’s a constant sense of urgency, and decisions are often reactive rather than strategic. Burnout is high, and it feels like you’re barely staying afloat. The priority here is stabilization—addressing immediate threats to well-being and establishing foundational support.
2. Revive
Once the crisis is stabilized, the next step is to restore energy and function. This stage is about recovery—identifying what’s draining the system and making room for healing. Organizations focus on workforce well-being, reducing unnecessary stressors, and providing support for those who have been operating in survival mode for too long.
3. Strive
With renewed energy, individuals and organizations can begin to push forward. This is the stage where systems start improving, leaders begin implementing sustainable strategies, and a culture of resilience takes shape. Instead of just reacting to problems, teams start setting long-term goals and investing in their people.
4. Thrive
Thriving organizations have built strong, healthy workplaces where staff retention improves, decision-making becomes more strategic, and people feel empowered. At this stage, workplaces become proactive in sustaining wellness rather than just responding to burnout. Leaders are intentional about maintaining balance and ensuring staff are equipped to succeed.
5. Hive
The final stage is about collective impact. Organizations that reach this level are not only thriving internally but also influencing others. They become a model for sustainable wellness, sharing best practices and shaping the broader landscape of trauma-informed care. A ‘hive’ organization fosters a culture of collaboration, mentorship, and long-term systemic change.
Moving Forward
Where does your organization fall on the Five Ives spectrum? Understanding these stages can help you identify the next right step for your team. If you’re ready to move from survival to sustainability, our trainings and consulting services are designed to help guide you through the process.
Explore more about how the Five Ives framework can transform your workplace at www.fiveives.com.
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