
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.
In this two-day intensive, we will learn how to creatively and experientially go beyond a singular view of the self, and embrace, instead, the notion of the many-faceted self.
In this two-day intensive, we will learn how to creatively and experientially go beyond a singular view of the self, and embrace, instead, the notion of the many-faceted self.
In this 6-hour workshop we will set the stage for a clinical and philosophical approach to trauma informed treatment.
Heidi brought her strong background in grief work and helped create not only a training but an experience on furthering the depth of my understanding of grief. There were practical exercises and interactive strategies to help engage participants virtually. Highly recommend!
The trauma certificate Level I program led by Lisa is transformational. Lisa's expertise and experience is woven into the curriculum in a way that is engaging and fascinating. This program offers practitioners concrete skills and knowledge that expand clinical work with clients tremendously. Thank you!
Denise was passionate about her work in trauma, which is hard to do.
I gained immensely from Lisa's level one trauma training, and I am really looking forward to continue learning from her.
This program [Level II Advanced Treatment in Trauma Certificate] provided more guidance and resources than my graduate school curriculum in terms of clinical competency. What a privilege to witness, reflect on, and explore these new creative trauma-informed modalities with Lisa... Peggy and Dr. Dee. My entire practice has shifted in such an insightful, confident, and organic way and I am extremely grateful! Greatest program I have ever attended from a clinical perspective.
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.
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.
Heidi made me feel safe to ask questions and responded in a concise and understandable manner.
The facilitator [Joanne] was very warm and engaging. She encouraged each person to bring a piece of themselves into the workshop [Screenplay: Helping Parents Teach and Reach Children in the Digital Age].
The class provided a great understanding of OCD and treatment. Susan was so personable and knowledgeable�delightful!
I appreciated Denise's vast clinical knowledge and her way of intervening with clients.
I liked that she was so able to present authentically from her pwn experience.
Dr. Dee is always amazing! The workshop [Master Class: Sand Therapy and the Therapeutic Relationship] was everything I needed and more. And thank you for the awesome breakfast!!
Lisa Ferentz is amazing! Because of her dedication to mental health, compassion for clients, and experience, I am more confident in myself as a therapist. I have been able to apply all techniques and tools to my practice.
This training was invaluable. I was able to use this knowledge and the techniques to help almost every single client I serve.
She was so knowledgeable and insightful. I appreciated her intentionality and ability to weave interventions and art into the training.
I've completed my Level 1 and Level 2 with Lisa and I can hands down say you will learn more in this course than you do in all of grad school. Level 2 was not only extremely beneficial from a clinician and learning standpoint but one of the most profound experiences I've had personally as well. The integration of both parts and expressive modalities (alongside her incredible staff) provided one of the best educational experiences I've ever had. If you are wanting to grow personally, expand your knowledge and competence as a trauma clinical, Level 2 is a must!
Dr. N'Diaye brings warmth and expertise to this training. She inspires, models, and teaches effective technique within a well developed theoretical frame.
I especially liked learning about the way she has handled some of her cases and her amazing experience treating clients with complex PTSD.
Clear, succinct, lively, personable.
I really appreciate Lisa�s expertise and humility.
I loved Aliza’s vibe and groundedness. She clearly knows her stuff!
Learning about the way she has handled some of her cases and her amazing experience treating clients with complex PTSD.
Lisa's trainings are enlightening and engaging. [Ethical Dilemmas in Clinical Practice] included a good amount of discussion with the other clinicians attending which offers opportunities to learn from the other attendees as well as the speakers.
This was a phenomenal training which helped me develop significant personal and professional insights. I left every session feeling energized and excited about sharing new ideas and approaches with clients. Being in a room with Lisa and so many other therapists has been an incredibly normalizing, reassuring and encouraging space. Lisa has been a consistent model of compassion and client-centered care throughout and I can't wait to learn from her again in the future.
Jill created a calm, comfortable environment. She welcomed questions and feedback from attendees.
Enjoyed the energy, enthusiasm, knowledge that Dr. Evans shared about a complex and potentially transformative therapeutic tool. Thanks for offering this to our community.
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.
I appreciate Lisa's realness. She isn't selling anything. She made me feel positive about myself as a therapist.
Jill was very enthusiastic and knowledgeable.
This training was helpful for seasoned as well as novice supervisors. Provided the opportunity for both groups to engage and discuss their experiences to solidify learning from each other.
I learned a lot [in Trauma Informed Collage Methods] and had fun doing it.
Sabrina is great- very real. Great interactive activities. Looked forward to part 2.
She is such a genuine and authentic person in her teaching. She makes it easier to be vulnerable and self reflect on the material than I've experienced with other presenters.
I like the presenter’s warmth, willingness to address questions, flexibility, and knowledge.
I enjoy Lisa�s ability to connect with anyone.
Lisa shared her wealth of knowledge and experience in an engaging and down to earth way.
I loved her [Denise's] knowledge, understanding & ability to communicate with the audience. Her passion was demonstrated by her presentation.
She was very kind, empathetic, and aware. I really liked her! The topic and info just did not keep my attention easily.
Lisa is a talented presenter who uses presence and attunement to ensure that participants feel empowered and connected. Thank you so much!
Lisa embodies the social work value of lifelong learning. She's an amazing teacher and is also incredibly willing to learn from others in the room.
Lisa's trauma training has brought me to a new level as a clinician. This should be required education for anyone in the clinical care or educational setting. The knowledge and resources gained through this course are invaluable.
Lisa has the ability to frame theory, concepts, and interventions in applicable terms.
Jill is an excellent presenter and she made herself available to advise on case material from the students.
I always benefit from learning with Lisa. Her experience is invaluable and the compassionate way she teaches concepts have become part of the way I interact and communicate with my own clients. The practical strategies will be invaluable in my work with them
Dr. Wayne's personality is so real and authentic. He was warm, welcoming, greeted us each personally and engaged with us in relatable and understandable ways. Not 'academic' or 'stuffy' as some can be when presenting.
Great! Lisa is a knowledgable and entertaining speaker. I learned a lot [in Navigating the Ethical Challenges of Telemental Health]!
I am so fortunate to have had the opportunity to attend Lisa Ferentz' Level I Trauma Program Training. The training will allow me to assist our Judy Center Program, and the partnering Title I school in utilizing Trauma Informed practices school wide! I learned so much by attending the sessions. I benefited in many ways personally and professionally. I would highly recommend others attend the Level I Trauma Training Program conducted by the Ferentz Institute. Lisa is amazing!!
This training gave me new insight as an advocate and really put things in a new light.
Lisa is an expert on this subject. She makes every session interactive and creates a safe environment to learn and grow.
If you are a clinician Lisa Ferentz's trauma training is one you cannot miss!!
Lisa is such a great communicator, connecting research and evidence-based practice in a deeply empathic way.
Clearly well-thought out presentation, she told helpful stories (old clients/hospice), nice blend of theory and take-aways can use right away.
She was very interactive and kept a positive attitude during the entire training.
I loved all of it! The real life examples of concepts, breaking into groups and processing an issue, the reminder from Sabrina that I am human and no one expects me to have all of the answers. This felt like sitting with a friend and drinking a dirty chai and feeling the support and nurturing while also gaining knowledge.
Sabrina did an incredible job presenting material and keeping us engaged.
She [Lisa] is both a teacher and a practitioner- she is clearly not just an academic.
I deeply appreciate the blend of theoretical and practical knowledge that Lisa's Trauma I course afforded me. I strongly recommend this course and the consummate professional who teaches it.
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.
Jonah had a depth of knowledge and understanding of the material and was a clear communicator.
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.
She was clear, very well-informed--in fact, I'd call her the best expert I've found on the topic to date.
[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!
The workshop was phenomenal. I already see a change in the way I conceptualize and treat clients' presenting concerns. Learning and applying several expressive techniques first-hand in the workshop gave me the confidence to put it into practice. It also helped that the venue and workshop set-up were *amazing* and very conducive to learning.
The presenter for [Evolving Treatment in the Face of the Opioid Epidemic] was energetic, knowledgeable and brought in a different perspective to such a sensitive topic. He brought in great speakers, and added human perspective to our Opiate epidemic. I liked his approach and teaching style.
[Navigating the Ethical Challenges of Telemental Health] was excellent. Well organized, very informative. Of course, Lisa is always a superb presenter as she did that day!
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!
Holding class attention throughout an ethics seminar [like Ethical Dilemmas in Clinical Practice] is quite a feat, something Lisa accomplished with apparent ease.
This program is an incredibly wise investment for anyone who is interested in becoming more trauma informed. The information is priceless, digestible, comprehensive, and delivered in an engaging way. I cannot endorse Lisa and the Institute enough- it is worth your time to enhance your skills.
Jill’s knowledge about her material is extraordinary. Her style focused on compassionate care of her clients married with sharp minded knowledge of both the art and science of her subject. Her pacing was excellent. She gave ample space for us to respond, ask questions and process. Her humanity and humility, I am sure, is basic to her nature.
I liked [Patricia's] her warmth, and wealth of knowledge, and approachability.
The presentation was very informative. The presenter was mindful of the technology.
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.
The case examples were extremely helpful. Lisa is an extremely knowledgeable, clear, organized, engaging, and approachable presenter.
The Presenters were working so well together and made sure they were connecting with participants. It felt very intimate and personal. I felt like I was in the same room with them.
Jonah was organized, articulate and knowledgeble.
I had heard a lot about Lisa and have watched her webinars and read her books; so I was extremely excited about the training. Lisa is an absolute delight in person - approachable, knowledgeable, engaging and compassionate. I cannot wait for the rest of the sessions!
I loved the overview of the couples IFIO. The presenter was approachable, engaging, and made the information easily digestible.
The presenters were knowledgeable and provided psycho-education along with experiential activities.
The entire program was interesting and thought-provoking. It is change the way I work with all my clients no matter what issues they present with. I wish a class of this nature had been part of my graduate program back in the day. Lisa presented the material same fashion she encourages us with clients. I plan to take Level II.
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!
This training allowed me to transform the way I work with clients. I feel much more confident and competent in my work thanks to Lisa's help in expanding my knowledge.
The presenter.is clear, organized, thoughtful, and sensitive to the needs of the participants.
[Trauma Informed Assessment and Treatment: Ethical Considerations] overall was well organized and useful. I found much of the presentation had a clinical focus and much less emphasis on the ethical considerations and dilemmas we face in practice. Most of us know that it's our ethical responsibility to provide trauma informed care, but how that plays out in group practices and agencies can be very challenging to navigate and effectively advocate.
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.
I loved his energy, enthusiasm and knowledge of the subject matter. It was evident that this subject is one of his passions, and it was wonderful to learn from his expertise and clinical case vignettes.
What I liked best is that Susan provided strategies specifically geared to treat OCD treatment with both children and adults.
Sabrina as a trainer is outstanding. I loved the breakout sessions.
The Expressive Modalities Program provides a quality connection of didactic information with sensory experience, for a more complete understanding of beneficial client treatment concepts.
Peggy clearly loves her work, and her knowledge base is so very deep.
The presenter [for Trauma Informed Assessment and Treatment: Ethical Considerations] was awesome. I have been to ethics trainings and it made your mind wonder away to other areas and all you could think about is leaving. Lisa is a passionate presenter and she keeps you interested. She was very respectful to the people asking questions. I really love her.
Lisa is always incredible - you learn from minute one to the end of the day. She's engaging, funny and breaks down the concepts in such an accessible way.
Lisa is always a thoughtful, engaging and warm presenter. She makes everyone feel heard and seen.
This training has made me realize who I am as a therapist! I have learned so much and I see a huge difference in how I work with my clients. Thank you!
The classes for level two were extremely informative and helpful to me as a therapist. I always left with tools to use with clients. I became more confident in my ability to counsel with the help of this institute.
She demonstrated enthusiasm and compassion for the people she works with.
[Trauma Informed Assessment and Treatment: Ethical Considerations] was very informative. Lisa always does an outstanding job making it fun and interesting.
Dr. Evans is a very engaging and creative clinician and presenter.
I loved the training. Very informative.
The workshop was so valuable in that it provided me with an expanded scope of practice and concrete techniques to use in addressing difficult subjects with clients. Lisa is such an engaging and knowledgeable presenter and weaves in relevant examples from her own practice, which helps highlight the practical applications of the material.
I found [Creative Techniques for Managing Traumatic Stress: Grounding, Containment, and Resourcing] overall very interesting and helpful. [The presenter] gave us a lot of creative techniques that are simple enough to implement as non-art therapists. I liked the structure – alternating between theory and experiential.
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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