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A group of clinicians sitting in a circle having a discussion.

Our Mission:

To provide social workers and other mental health professionals with state-of-the-art continuing education encompassing a variety of clinical issues, client populations, and practice settings. We believe effective learning occurs in a professional, nurturing, supportive, and fun environment that fosters collegial sharing and networking.

Our trainings encourage clinicians to reframe and de-pathologize symptoms, while focusing on clients’ resiliency and strengths. We believe that clinicians are only as effective as the extent to which they take care of themselves, so we also address issues of counter-transference, vicarious traumatization, and professional burnout.

Four people attending a workshop for The Ferentz Institute.

Trauma Certificate Programs

Learn how to incorporate effective and creative trauma treatment strategies that promote self-compassion and healing.

Get Started
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Discover our Inspiring Workshops

Earn valuable CEUs through informative and experiential workshops that strengthen your professional skills and enhance your personal growth.

Learn More
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Bring Lisa to You

Discover trainings and keynote addresses that Lisa can offer your professional community at your clinical setting or conference.

Upcoming Classes

Boost your professional knowledge and expand your expertise with our in-person and online trainings.

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September 18, 2026
8:45 AM - 4:15 PM (ET)
Location:
Virtual Training on Zoom
Presenter:
Presenter:
Dee Preston-Dillon
PHD

In this workshop, participants will explore the therapist's grief, including their experience and process of personal grief and how grief enters the therapeutic process. We will address the client's grief, what is spoken, unseen, and what they are ready to share.

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September 22, 2026
8:45 AM - 4:15 PM (ET)
Location:
In-Person at The Hilton Garden Inn • Owings Mills, MD
Presenter:
Presenter:
Jill Penaloza
LCPAT, ATR-BC, CGP

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September 23, 2026
8:45 AM - 4:15 PM (ET)
Location:
In-Person at The Hilton Garden Inn • Owings Mills, MD
Presenter:
Presenter:
Jill Penaloza
LCPAT, ATR-BC, CGP

What people are saying about The Ferentz Institute:

Janie Scholom
RN, LCSW-C

Great! Lisa is a knowledgable and entertaining speaker. I learned a lot [in Navigating the Ethical Challenges of Telemental Health]!

Neisha Price
LCPC

Sabrina was so warm and open that I did not feel I was in a role of just teacher and student, but in a place where I am learning from a place as peer seeking wisdom from more advanced peer who is also always in a place of learning and growth.

Michael Lockman
LCPC

She [ Arrielle Seidler] was funny and down to earth.

Mary Ngugi
LCMFT

Lisa was knowledgeable and able to effectively communicate the information; I appreciate how recent the research findings provided were.

Amina Wells
LCSW-C

He's [Dr. Evans] passionate, personable and very knowledgeable and his creative lens offers a lot to the training experience.

Katherine Cochran
LMSW

I especially loved Lisa's energy and passion for the subject despite feeling unwell. Her depth of knowledge and experience.

Kerry McCommons
LCPC

Attending Lisa's Level I and Level II Trauma Trainings has been a truly beautiful experience. My level of insight and practice has grown so much in my time here.

Ran Zhang
MS, LPC, LCPC

Peggy was knowledgeable and presented the information in a comprehensive manner, and also allowed me to connect with my own experiences during the training. I think that really helped me integrate what I learned from her.

Jennifer Z.
LCSW-C

This workshop was a unique and inspiring sharing of wisdom, knowledge and support for each of us as clinicians and as humans. Dr. Sabrina is an amazing presenter with an abundance of knowledge and inspiration for every one of us!

Carol Anzuoni
LMFT. LMHC

What I appreciated most about Patricia Papernow as a presenter was how genuinely she embodied the qualities she encouraged us to arouse in our clients - caring, compassion and empathy. Throughout the workshop, her warmth and presence enlivened the concepts she shared, making her guidance on supporting blended family members feel practical, human and relatable.

Kathryn Davis
PsyD, LP

I just loved how approachable Peggy was. There’s something so admirable about a brilliant professional who is so confident and doesn’t need to ACT brilliant. I also enjoyed the content of her course and really respected how she was neither defensive nor condescending when people asked questions in class. I hope I can do that when I teach.

David Facenda
LICSW

TJ was relaxed, easy to listen to, and knowledgeable about her topic.

Bruce Snyder
Chaplain / Minister

I was extremely impressed with Sabrina and her [Therapists as Peacebuilders: Using Your Gifts for Global Impact] workshop. It correlated very well the combined existence of both therapy skills engaged with transforming power for mutual consideration of others.

Amy Shulkin
PhD

What I most liked about Lisa and her training was the clarity on her opinions/biases, transparency, organization, presentation style, knowledge based on both research and clinical experience.

Elyse Greenwald
LCPC

Denise was excellent all around. Her use of real case examples to illustrate her narrative allowed her to present a very complex subject.

Susan B. Blair
LCMFT, CCDP

This training equipped me with a greater understanding of trauma informed treatment. I feel more confidant in my practice dealing with issues of trauma and more energized to continue to increase my knowledge and efficacy.

Molly Jakubek
LMFT

This training is amazing and provides a thorough foundation to work with clients with trauma. Everything learned helped my growth as a clinician.

Linda Hellman
MSW-C

Janina consistently redefined pathology to befriending and honoring a child’s adaptive strategies, that now might be less useful as an adult.

Donna Tish
LICSW, LCSW-C

Lisa's personality and presentation skills added entertainment and engagement for participants. The experience was well worth the investment of time and money.

Brian Edwards
LCPC

TJ was very genuine and down to earth.

Laura Block
LCSW-C

I especially liked Lisa's ease in answering questions and proposing new approaches that seemed so amazingly simple but revelatory.

Shannon Maple
LCSW-C

Dr. Carter was very engaging, knowledgeable, and had a wonderful energy that kept it interesting!

Teresa Doniger
LPC

Lisa Ferentz's Level I trauma training program is a gift for the clinician as well as their clients. Trauma informed care, I am learning, invites the therapist to use their whole self - mind, body, soul, spirit, and heart - to accompany clients on their journeys of healing.

Ellen Mazer
LICSW

The presenter [Patricia] conveyed a strong commitment to this very important material through the information she shared as well as appropriate self-disclosure.

Megan Robison
LCSW-C

Lisa has great energy and remains engaging throughout the day. She also provides information in a way that is understandable and relatable.

Sean Cavanaugh
LCSW-C

[Trauma Informed Assessment and Treatment: Ethical Considerations] was my first workshop at the Ferentz Institute and it exceeded all of my expectations! It was highly interactive and offered practical application for ensuring my clinical practice meets the highest ethical standards.

Patti Amsel
LCSW-C

Very helpful and gave me new perspective and skills to enhance peace building skills. Opened my eyes to actions I could take where before I felt helpless.

Janice Carlson
LCSW-C

Very knowledgeable about the subject matter and an engaging presenter.

Sean P. Daughtry
LICSW

Patricia offers a succinct and engaging presentation and teaching style. I appreciated her articulate presentation and deep knowledge about such a crucial topic.

Sumi Holman
LCSW-C

Helpful art prompts to use in session with clients. Lisa was warm, compassionate, understanding and flexible.

Chaim Wolfish
LCPC

This program is an absolute must for any clinician who is serious about providing the best therapeutic care to all clients.

Joanna Sonnekalb
LMFT

Dr. Papernow brings the perfect balance of warmth, knowledge, and skill to the topic of stepfamilies. Her care for this population is clearly evident, and she instills the confidence needed to tackle these complex issues with sensitivity and compassion.

Meredith Gelman
LCSW

Very seasoned presenter. Excellent and useful materials presented in a way that a client can also understand without shame.” I love how she wove in the strategies and worksheets to complement her slides.

Sabrina Bowen
LCMFT

I like the presenter’s warmth, willingness to address questions, flexibility, and knowledge.

Alice O'Donnell
LCSW-C

Dr. N'Diaye brings warmth and expertise to this training. She inspires, models, and teaches effective technique within a well developed theoretical frame.

Allyson Wozniak
LMSW

This training transferred well to an online platform. Lisa did a great job keeping everyone active and keeping the training lively and engaging.

Emma Pyle
LCSW

Lisa is an amazing educator. I am thrilled to be able to apply all of the knowledge acquired in this program to better help my clients.

Timothy Vail
PSYD

[Creative Techniques for Managing Traumatic Stress: Grounding, Containment, and Resourcing was a] great introduction to some art therapy techniques specifically aimed for individuals who've experienced trauma.

Nicholas Harmer
LMSW

The Level 1 training was invaluable to my journey of providing trauma informed therapy and doing deeper work with clients. I recommend new and older clinicians to invest in this program to inform, and to re-spark passion for the very important and sensitive work that we do.

Jenna Adler
LCSW-C

Lisa would address all questions, gave lots of case examples and was so knowledgeable and kind.

Jenn Ungham
CAC-AD

Trauma 1 Program was beyond beneficial as the core of my patients have been affected by trauma and not only did this program validate what I am already doing but also provided me with a wealth of knowledge to take my sessions to the next level and help my patients process through their trauma in a safe and effective way.

Ronda (Rosie) Behr
LCSW-C

I learned a lot [in Trauma Informed Collage Methods] and had fun doing it.

Alexis Buckheit
LPC, LCPC

Timothy was so wise and supportive in the way he presented the material. The environment was comfortable and facilitated space for questions and thoughts among participants, which is not always the case in virtual workshops.

Lisa Pearson
LCPC

Denise was passionate about her work in trauma, which is hard to do.

Beverly Burwell
LMHC

Dr. Papernow is passionate about her subject, [provides] evidence-based research, [is] well-organized, very relational and responsive.

Sarah Dziwanowski
LCSW-C

She was relatable, knowledgeable, compassionate and funny. She did a great job giving practical tools to use while increasing my overall knowledge about OCD.

Royshonda Boulden
Victim Advocate

This training gave me new insight as an advocate and really put things in a new light.

Lindsey McDaniel. LCSW-C

Thoughtful and reality-based discussion of the topic. Research backed information.

MaryAnn Niclas
LCSW-C

Lisa has a wonderful combination of warmth and efficiency. I believe all her workshop attendees feel seen and heard by her.

Anne Bean
LCSW-C

I loved the ideas for enriching supervision to encompass holistic well being.

Gabriella King
LGPC

It was great to get a spectrum of approaches and the encouragement to synthesize them in our own way.

Jennifer Crooks
LCSW-C

Jill created a calm, comfortable environment. She welcomed questions and feedback from attendees.

Samantha Russell
LCSW-C

Lisa is extremely knowledgable, but still approachable. She made the training engaging and enjoyable.

Annette Schlossnagle
LCSW-D

This is the stuff I wish we had in college! Lisa is an excellent teacher! Taking this course is something I have dreamed of since I first heard Lisa teach at another training. Every class I went away with immediately applicable teaching and resources. I immediately felt more confident and comfortable in my practice.

Cyndi Wagner
LPC, LCPC

I understand ADHD better and how it impacts individuals.

Carrie Schurtz
LCSW-C

The Trauma Level I course increased both my confidence and competence as a clinician. The online learning format afforded convenience without sacrificing the quality of this dynamic course. The resources and connection with other clinicians through the online format have proven to be incredibly helpful in my day to day practice.

Jessica Palmen
LCSW-C

Lisa's training has been one of the most meaningful experiences in my career. Lisa is engaging and makes material easy to process. She is warm, validating, direct and clear. I left each session feeling more resourced, with concrete interventions and a new appreciation for my role as a therapist as well as for my clients.

Barbie Glenn
LCPC, NCC

This program has completely changed the way I approach therapy and it show in the improvements I am observing in the lives of my clients! Thank you!

Jan Brewer
LCSW-C

Personable, approachable presenter whose knowledge was self evident.

Laura Willard
LCSW-C

Sabrina was very knowledgeable and offered new content in a way that was inspiring and easy to digest.

Shannon Waliser
MSW, MPA, LICSW

Sabrina is knowledgeable, personable and authentic. When I sign up to take a training with Sabrina, I know I will grow as a clinician and as a human. I always get my money's worth and more.

Jami Margolis
LCPC

This program gave me, as a seasoned clinician, so much insight about how to be trauma informed in every aspect of treatment: intake environment, parts work, and termination. Thank you!

Meredith Braden
MA, NCC, LGPC

I absolutely loved Level I. Lisa's smart, caring approach conveyed knowledge essential to treating trauma survivors, focusing on their strengths, sharing practical coping skills, and protecting them through the process of therapy. I feel more confident as a young clinician because of this training. It was fun too!

Jaree Cottman
LCSW-C

Being able to bear witness to Dr. Sabrina's wisdom and experiences, as well as the others in the group was most helpful. It was very nourishing to have self-care practices integrated into our time together. I think the training offers a unique approach to supervision that honors the sacredness of the experience beyond documentation and business exchanges.

Torri Mills
LCSW-C

This has been the most beneficial training that I have attended. I knew nothing about Lisa Ferentz before registering, but this training has exceeded my expectations and I have encouraged co-workers to participate. I came away with a wealth of information and knowledge and started incorporating what I learned in my sessions. I have also been able to inform family members, school teachers, and partners what to expect from one who has experienced trauma. Can't wait to take Level II!

M. Margaret Higgins
LCSW-C

Gosh, it's hard to limit. There is so much to admire. I think I'd have to say what I like best is Lisa's ability to organize the wealth of her knowledge/concepts in such an organized fashion and her openness to generously share the wealth and specifics of her practical experience and knowledge with others. By doing so, she is spreading her important concepts and compassion for others to more effectively serve clients.

Kristin Cousin
LCA

[Lisa] created a beautiful working environment that fostered participation and great discussion. [Ethical Dilemmas in Clinical Practice] was well prepared and went over the necessary information holding everyone's interest and attention.

R. Denise Roberson
LPC

What I liked best is that Susan provided strategies specifically geared to treat OCD treatment with both children and adults.

Julia Caruana
LCMFT

It's hard to explain what an impact Lisa's training has had not only in how I see myself as a therapist but how much more equipped I am to help my clients. I have already seen a tremendous change in the work I do with my clients. It will change the way you see/do therapy. I can't recommend it highly enough!

David Facenda
LICSW

I especially liked Peggy's level of knowledge and her working with the art therapy and the IFS modalities.

Michelle Market
LPC, CEDS

I loved her accessibility. I was able to ask questions and make comments throughout the talk. I appreciated that the size was small and intimate, that was truly a bonus!

Kaitlin Phillips
LCSW-C

Lisa Ferentz is a great speaker, she gives ample time for questions, and her material is relevant with new research findings.

Lauren Drinkwater
LGPC

[Staying Within the Window of Tolerance: Breath Work and Body-Centered Modalities for Affect Regulation] was an excellent mix of education via lecture and via experiential learning. I really enjoyed the opportunity to practice the techniques with other participants in a supportive environment!

Shelby Mitchem
LCSW-C

This was hands down the best and most useful training I have ever done. In my almost 10 years as a therapist, I have never felt more confident in my clinical skills than I do now. Thank you, Lisa, for your infinite wisdom!

Christine Barnes
LCSW-C

She created a safe space for us all. Was very kind and personable. Extremely knowledgeable and confident. Stayed on schedule.

Julie Phillips
LCSW-C

Lisa is incredibly engaging, knowledgeable, compassionate and creates trainings where I learn a great deal in a lovely setting. She makes us feel comfortable and cared for. She is the best!!

Caitlin McGuire
LCSW-C

Jill is just such a calming presence. Her strategies are very effective, and she gives great insight into the function of each intervention. I loved all of the interventions!

Stephanie Barbara Perry
LCSW-C

Susan was in command of her subject but also had a great sense of humor.

Ina Schwob
LCSW-C

It is truly an honor and privilege to attend Lisa Ferentz's workshops. Lisa is a dynamic and masterful presenter and therapist specifically trained in trauma therapy. Her trauma workshop provides a high level of education with up to date practical application of assessments, treatments and creative techniques. [Trauma Informed Assessment and Treatment: Ethical Considerations] provides guaranteed take home tools will enhance your clinical practice. I am always inspired by her enthusiasm and dedication to trauma therapy. I walk away with renewed energy and excitement.

Venus Simms
LCSW-C

Sabrina is extremely knowledgeable. Her way of teaching helps you see yourself from a different prospective. Helps identify your strengths and what you need to work on. She provides real world examples and how to work through real challenges.

Anne Eckman
LGSW

[Trauma Informed Collage Methods featured a] wonderful combination of theory, practical art prompts, and a chance to experience methods and materials. Allowed for new learning, and refinement, across a spectrum of trauma therapy and artmaking experience in the room. Thank you!

Kris O’Shee
LPC

I liked that she was so able to present authentically from her pwn experience.

Kathy Sullivan
LCSW-C

Denise had great examples and scenarios, and she's a presentable, knowledgeable expert.

Liza Baker
MAAT

[Trauma Informed Collage Methods] greatly refreshed my knowledge as an art therapist, but perhaps more importantly, I recognized the value of collage in working with difficult to reach populations. While the collage experiencials we completed were fun and relaxing, in a new way I could more confidently apply the powerful intuitive processes of collage with people who have lost everything.

Kim M.

Denise is a true expert in issues related to trauma and addiction and has a great way of sharing her knowledge as a presenter.

Timothy Elliott
LCSW-C

Sabrina presents her heart and spirit in the training. Genuine and sincere, while grounded in theory and experience.

Rochelle Sullivan
LGPC

Lisa is an expert on this subject. She makes every session interactive and creates a safe environment to learn and grow.

M. Margaret Higgins
LCSW-C

I greatly appreciate Lisa's approach of comprehensive information backed by research intermingled with concrete, practical application and discussion.

Elizabeth Mohler
LCSW

Great resource provided by a gifted teacher & clinician.

Teresa Doniger
LPC

I have been eager to strengthen my knowledge base and skill level in trauma informed care. My clients and I will benefit from the hands on approach that Lisa shares with care and attention for all of her program participants. I am now much more aware of the importance of both mind (brain) and body when it comes to the impact and significance of trauma histories and clients' current level of functioning and satisfaction with life.

Natalie Franz
PHD, R.Psych.

Patricia is an excellent presenter: clear, well-informed, and personable. I also appreciate that she provided extensive materials ahead of time. It made following her presentation that much easier and I have valuable resources to use with my clients.

Emily Scott
LCSW-C

Lisa was responsive, welcoming and cared for participants. Her vast experience provided for very concrete examples of how the material translates to practice.

Shyrielane Watson
PHD, LCPC

The presenter.is clear, organized, thoughtful, and sensitive to the needs of the participants.

Sasha W.
LCSW-C

The workshop was very informative. I was able to walk into my office the next day with a clear understanding of parts work and utilize new expressive modalities right away. I'm excited to take more trainings on the topic and deepen my knowledge!

Elizabeth Velazquez
LCSW-C

The entire presentation was incredibly useful. I learned so much! It provided new information and kept my attention the entire time!

Victoria Stubbs
LICSW, LCSW-C

I truly appreciated her integrated approach, her authenticity and the sharing of personal examples. She [Sabrina] made the virtual space feel welcoming and comfortable.

Angela Key
LCSW-C

Lisa’s wealth of knowledge and experience as a therapist and trainer are second only to how she validates, encourages, and often highlights contributions from participants.

Seritha Funderburk Evans
MPA

Dr. Evans was well prepared and kept my attention from start to end. The information that I received and the knowledge that I gained was life changing.

Kim B.
LGPC

The training was amazing. Although I wanted to learn more about Parts Work to be able to help my clients, I learned that and more. I now understand the importance of practicing what I preach. How can I talk to my clients about compassion for self, when I lack my own self compassion. I want to learn even more about Parts work not only for professional development, but for personal development as well.

Angel Harp Witherspoon
LCPC

This was the most informative and interactive training that I have ever attended. I would recommend this training to anyone.

Melanie Levine
LCSW-C

As always, Lisa is very knowledgeable about her subject matter and funny and enjoyable to listen to. also very relevant topic matter.

The Ferentz Institute, Inc. is an approved sponsor of the Maryland Board of Social Work Examiners for continuing education credits for licensed social workers in Maryland. CEU approval for all trainings is also granted to Psychologists, LCPC’s and MFT’s and approved by the Board of Professional Counselors and Therapists and the Board of Examiners for Psychologists in Maryland. Reciprocity has also been granted for clinicians in Washington, DC, Virginia, West Virginia, Indiana, Georgia, Massachusetts, Michigan, and Texas. All mental health clinicians are encouraged to check with their respective State Boards to learn if reciprocity is offered for our CEUs. The Institute also maintains full responsibility for all programming.

*Please note that, for workshops that offer CEUs in Anti-Oppressive Content, Ethics, and/or Diversity, those credits may only be used for one of those categories, not all.