
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.

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

Earn valuable CEUs through informative and experiential workshops that strengthen your professional skills and enhance your personal growth.
Discover trainings and keynote addresses that Lisa can offer your professional community at your clinical setting or conference.
Boost your professional knowledge and expand your expertise with our in-person and online trainings.
This workshop is designed for therapists new to the Internal Family Systems (IFS) model or those with a basic understanding seeking to expand their knowledge and application in clinical practice.
This workshop will give you creative opportunities to explore your underdeveloped talents, as well as deepen your listening skills: an essential attribute for being able to provide effective supervision.
In this workshop, participants will connect the fawn response to insecure attachment, and process why it is a necessary and inevitable childhood response to trauma, abuse or neglect.
She was very engaged with the entire group as well as each individual participant. Her presentation was flawless and offered the self-regulation and healing on a felt sense. Well done!!
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!
Peggy was very knowlegeable, caring, amd approachable.
I so appreciated Lisa's genuine nature and investment in our learning. Her teaching style is inviting, insightful, thought provoking and welcoming. I've taken Trauma Level I, Dissociation/Trauma and now C-PTSD training with Lisa. I've never heard her say to someone that they are "wrong." This is so encouraging and valuable when your mind feels jumbled after a long day of training. Thank you so much!
Janina is magic! Skilled, communicative, comfortable, safe energy.
The presenter.is clear, organized, thoughtful, and sensitive to the needs of the participants.
I really valued [Understanding and Working with Self-Injurious Behavior (SIB)]. Lisa allowed me to more fully understand that my challenging clients are not trying to be resistant or difficult but are struggling with trauma and deeply ingrained, albeit ineffective coping mechanisms. Lisa also supported and solidified for me, what I had already been mulling over — that restructuring our treatment model for high risk and chronic relapsing individuals (substance use) to incorporate more skills training.
I found [Evolving Treatment in the Face of the Opioid Epidemic] very informative. The presenter was very knowledgeable about the topic and I found it helpful to hear real life experiences with addiction.
Lisa made a complex topic (inner parts work) easier to understand through her dynamic training. I am excited to implement the modalities learned in my work with clients.
The presenter [for Working with Dreams: Tapping into an Inner Wisdom] had a good grasp of the material and was exceptionally well prepared.
This was such an enlightening workshop that made me think and apply a unique way to use fairytales to heal clients of trauma. Dr. Preston-Dillon's voice was also so soothing as she used "Thick description" to retell stories/folklore. I can only imagine how therapeutic this technique is for clients as they embrace playing with imaginary back-stories of their favorite fairytale, folklore, or movie and using items/objects to express their feelings.
Lisa presents in such a way that fosters a safe and welcoming space where participants can ask questions and share experiences comfortably, which enhances learning.
I was ambivalent about the utility of teletherapy. Lisa presented information focusing on the individual, therapist, and relationship. [Navigating the Ethical Challenges of Telemental Health was] highly useful.
I love learning the body movement and have been using it every day!
I have been practicing for 42 years and I work with individuals who have been plagued with the suffering and consequences of trauma. I do consider myself “trauma informed." I have not experienced such clarity and integration of traumatic clinical processes and treatment [found in Trauma Informed Assessment and Treatment: Ethical Considerations]. In addition to strategic interventions offered to manage the journey without re-traumatization, Lisa Ferentz is a very gifted clinician and my wish is for younger professionals to be trained and influence their skills forever.
I enjoy Lisa�s ability to connect with anyone.
Dr. Evans was a wonderful and inspirational education and practitioner. His authenticity created a safe space and allowed for an environment where we could really experience our time with him.
This is the best class I have ever attended (and I have two Master's degrees) and Lisa is the most organized, most compassionate, most detailed oriented and the most aware of the process than I have ever encountered. She is very well grounded and rounded in all her presentations.
Jill created a calm, comfortable environment. She welcomed questions and feedback from attendees.
Lisa’s knowledge is so impressive, and her presentations are so warm and her ability to connect with everyone is amazing. Leaning from her is so wonderful.
I feel so much more resourced and capable to work as a trauma informed therapist. This class has given me the confidence and renewed my passion for this work.
She [Susan] provided great ideas and suggestions given her expertise... it felt safe to ask questions, learn, and even be wrong because she was supportive and warm.
I really enjoyed the material, interaction, and overall experience. I felt that I learned more in that class than I did in graduate school! The information was so rich and exciting to learn!
Not only was I able to leave [Creative Techniques for Managing Traumatic Stress: Grounding, Containment, and Resourcing} with skills I could use the next day in session, [the presenter] made the workshop interactive, engaging, and I was able to take concrete items for my own personal self-care toolbox!
I appreciated Susan’s expertise, personal sharing of cases, and her personality.
Jonah was organized, articulate and knowledgeble.
Lisa's trauma curriculum should be a requirement for all aspiring clinicians.
Lisa Ferentz is very knowledgeable and a great teacher and presenter. She was very warm and welcoming. The class itself was very informational and very organized. I recommend this class to every clinician. Thanks Lisa!
He [Dr. Evans] was effective and innovative in his teachings, and was enthusiastic about the subject matter. I appreciated his way of modernizing theory and stories to make current work relevant and insightful.
The way Salicia facilitated the exercises was most powerful and supportive.
Lisa is such a great communicator, connecting research and evidence-based practice in a deeply empathic way.
Dr. Papernow was awesome! Used dialogue the whole training that modeled appropriate use of the teachings in our practices.
I encourage every clinician to attend this course. The course's focus on client strengths and creativity encourages you to expand your empathy and see client's in a more complete way. After having taken this training, I feel competent in my interactions with trauma survivors and assist them in a more thoughtful way.
Sabrina led with her heart throughout the entire training. Powerful experience with tangible take-aways.
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.
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.
This program brought me back to all the good things I felt while in grad school: lots of new knowledge, useful skills, and a safe and comfortable learning experience.
Lisa’s ability to clearly and comprehensively communicate current research on the causal effects of social media on teens, incorporate attachment theory to the discussion and share her own experience with presenting the information is awesome. I will be able to use this information.
Timothy Elliott was an excellent presenter. He did an excellent job of welcoming the group and of framing the entire training with encouraging clinician self-care (which I know is part of the Ferentz Institute Brand!). He made it a safe space by maintaining the time, encouraging interaction while also being fine when there wasn't any, and keeping a good pace of the lecture while also including space for questions/comments both in the chat and video. Highly recommend it!
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.
Lisa has a beautiful blend of expertise in practice, compassion and humility that is enhanced by her skill in teaching what she knows to enhance the abilities of the learner.
Overall, I would rate this workshop very highly. I loved the experiential components... I did come away from the workshop with a better understanding of IFS and a number of tools I can use immediately in my practice.
Susan connects with her audience with warmth and humor.
Dr. Sabrina did a fabulous job engaging us for 12 hours. I loved the format, her knowledge, and the real-life tips and experiences to help us grow.
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.
Very informative!
I am a seasoned professional and always leave trainings feeling like there was no new take away. However, after [Understanding and Working with Self-Injurious Behavior (SIB)] I left feeling recharged with new knowledge and skills. Can't wait to get back to work to use use them. Thanks!!
In [Master Class – Case Consultation: Treating Post-Partum Mood Disorders Through a Trauma Lens] Robyn did a beautiful job of bridging the gap between two important and highly intertwined areas of clinical focus, which too often aren't talked about intersectionally. I'd highly recommend this training!
The presenter was very interactive and knowledgeable.
I cannot adequately express how much I gained from Lisa's training. I am tuned into my clients on a much deeper level, always mindful of safety, attunement, body language, and their ability to be fully present in session. Lisa is a very generous teacher as well. I encourage other clinicians to take the trauma training, it will give you so many new tools to help your clients.
I really appreciated Lisa's openness to all feedback and questions.
Level II helped deepen my understanding of trauma and parts work. Each class provided an opportunity to learn creative, expressive approaches that clinicians can immediately put into practice. Lisa and her faculty provided a supportive learning environment and I enjoyed the opportunity to collaborate with other clinicians.
Lisa shared so much incredible wisdom.
The presenter [Dr. Carter] was personable but knowledgeable. He made the information clear and interesting while giving us tangible interventions for use with clients.
I appreciated our collaborating with peers and faculty, discussing cases and hearing feedback.
[Trauma Informed Assessment and Treatment: Ethical Considerations was] very helpful. Material relevant and has broad application. Physical environment was comfortable. Audience was engaged and conversant with material.
Lisa�s knowledge on the subject matter is incredible.
This training was invaluable. I was able to use this knowledge and the techniques to help almost every single client I serve.
Great resource provided by a gifted teacher & clinician.
This was a wonderful workshop that engendered a meaningful conversation on spirituality and psychotherapy, and the role of both in post traumatic growth. The facilitators were very engaging and knowledgeable.
Lisa's program is an invaluable resource. I ended every class eager to implement the new tools she shared. It was amazing to see the responses from my clients. I have not been able to stop talking with my colleagues about the program. Truly, everyone should attend Lisa's program!
Lisa is like a “therapist mother” that helps other therapist recognize their own strengths and encourages them to continue to do great work. You are guaranteed to take something from her training to use directly in your practice.
Jill was very enthusiastic and knowledgeable.
I especially liked looking at supervision from a framework of 4 archetypes and their shadow sides; using heart, hand and mind to encompass all aspects of supervision; viewing supervision as engaging, fun, supportive and as a relationship, not just as a teaching experience.
Lisa is the BEST! Truly the BEST! Thank you!
Dr. Sabrina is genuine, authentic and compassionate teacher. I appreciate her ability to teach holistic wellness by sharing her knowledge and wisdom. I am grateful for her taking the time to address the importance of utilizing an integrative-approach with clients, as well as empowering clinicians to use healing practices to take care of ourselves as healers.
Lisa is warm, knowledgeable, dynamic, and engaging. She�s pretty funny too!
The presenter [Dee] was knowledgeable, creative, and highly engaging.
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.
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.
Jill is so invested and connected to the work and this is apparent in her teaching.
This program incorporates all of the contemporary and recent knowledge the field has gained in trauma-informed therapy treatment and gives therapists concrete tools and strategies to use with their clients. Lisa and her faculty provide warmth, support and encouragement all throughout the course.
The presenter had a good grasp of the material and was exceptionally well prepared.
I truly appreciated her integrated approach, her authenticity and the sharing of personal examples. She [Sabrina] made the virtual space feel welcoming and comfortable.
Presenter had a great depth of knowledge on grief that will serve my future clients well!
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.
This has been, by far, the most useful and high quality training I have ever attended! I recommend this to any mental health professional and really anyone in a helping/health profession.
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.
Lisa provides a comfortable learning environment. The presentations are clear and thoughts, feedback and questions are always welcome.
This program is worth every last cent. Prior to the training, I was apprehensive about the financial investment. It was so worth it. The program boosted my confidence in working with trauma survivors. The information that I have passed on to clients in the form of psychoeducation has left them feeling empowered. I loved the on-line format. It makes it a lot more accessible and no rush hour driving!
I loved Aliza’s vibe and groundedness. She clearly knows her stuff!
Dr. Evans was a wonderful and inspirational education and practitioner. His authenticity created a safe space and allowed for an environment that we could really experience our time with him.
Dr. Papernow is a highly-skilled, empathetic, engaging and clear communicator who is able to connect with the audience in powerful and meaningful ways. Her examples, handouts and years of clinical experience will most definitely assist me in my work with clients moving forward. Thank you so much!
The presenters were knowledgeable and provided psycho-education along with experiential activities.
Patricia delivers the reality of step-parenting life in a way that lands honestly and gently. She breaks through old school expectations and provides insightful strategies for creating a successful family life that can actually work, no matter the timing, shape, or form your family takes place in. Understanding this information is everything when you're working with or experiencing these dynamics. I couldn't be more grateful for this training.
This training is amazing and provides a thorough foundation to work with clients with trauma. Everything learned helped my growth as a clinician.
Sabrina is great- very real. Great interactive activities. Looked forward to part 2.
Lisa Ferentz is a great speaker, she gives ample time for questions, and her material is relevant with new research findings.
Sabrina is warm and authentic, and I loved her stories in connection to the topics.
Janina consistently redefined pathology to befriending and honoring a child’s adaptive strategies, that now might be less useful as an adult.
This is the first training I completed that I genuinely looked forward to attending because I recognized the impact it had in my clinical work.
[In Trauma Informed Assessment and Treatment: Ethical Considerations] Lisa Ferentz offers light to all counselors who place their clients first & foremost, in a field that has become mired and one which I barely recognize after 35 years. Given that grief & trauma encapsulate our daily lives and most definitely, in the lives of our clients, I remain befuddled as to why grief & trauma education is not placed at the foremost and a basic requirement of any counseling/social work program.
I liked Dr. Evans' passion for his topic, the handouts and journaling at the end; his ability to engage the room, with 5 of the 17 participants not being African American or brown skinned; his not shying away from anger in a very articulate participant; and his willingness to share out of his own life, practice, and his faith.
TJ was very genuine and down to earth.
This training has been a priceless investment which I believe will change my practice for many years to come.
Sabrina is a force to be reckoned with! She is inspirational, encouraging, and truly cares about this work! Sabrina took the time to get to know each and every one of us in her class, to hear our responses, and respond with care and curiosity. It was a pleasure to learn from her and I look forward to building on my skills based off of what I took from the past couple of days! Thank you!
Susan was easy to follow & understand; and, she was especially honest if she didn't know something.
She [Susan] connects with her audience with warmth and humor.
I really appreciated Sabrina's authenticity as well as her ability to have participants explore traits about themselves that can be used as unique gifts as supervisors. She has amazing energy and insight!
This program should be a part of every clinician's repertoire. The compassion and knowledge Lisa has is invaluable and I am confident I am a better clinician because of this training and the investment in myself and clients.
This was the most informative and interactive training that I have ever attended. I would recommend this training to anyone.
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.
Join interactive lessons, get expert feedback, and explore your creativity in a supportive community.

"...a magical guide to conquering our fears, phobias and emotional pain...”
—Janina Fisher, PhD
“… a real treasure trove of tools for healing..."
— Dusty Miller

“…a rich resource which helps empower the client and facilitate recovery..."
— Joyanna Silberg, PhD

"...a dynamic and strengths-focused approach to treating challenging trauma-based behaviors..."
—Nancy Napier, LMFT
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