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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.

A picture that represents this event.
August 28, 2026
8:45 AM - 4:15 PM (ET)
Location:
In-Person at The Hilton Garden Inn • Owings Mills, MD
Presenter:
Presenter:
Lisa Ferentz
LCSW-C, DAPA

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.

A picture that represents this event.
September 3, 2026
8:45 AM - 4:15 PM (ET)
Location:
In-Person at The Hilton Garden Inn • Owings Mills, MD
Presenter:
Presenter:
Lisa Ferentz
LCSW-C, DAPA

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.

A picture that represents this event.
September 4, 2026
8:45 AM - 4:15 PM (ET)
Location:
In-Person at The Hilton Garden Inn • Owings Mills, MD
Presenter:
Presenter:
Lisa Ferentz
LCSW-C, DAPA

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.

What people are saying about The Ferentz Institute:

Mariangela Weiskopk
LCPC

The instructor’s way of presenting and conveying the material was fantastic. She was able to clearly demonstrate how she uses IFS and parts work in her therapy.

Julia Caruana
LCMFT

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!

Kara Smith
LCSW-C

This was by far the best training I have attended. I learned that I was actually doing a lot correctly, but also learned a lot of things I could be doing. I look forward to Level II!

Laurey Richmond
LCPC

Jonah was knowledgeable, engaged, responsive, and modeled strengths-based language and teaching. He did really well responding to chatbox comments immediately and respectfully.

Stephanie Barbara Perrry
LCSW-C

Mr. Ferentz had an excellent grasp of current information in the field and shared both the theory and practice. He included the whole group in his presentation.

Samantha Russell
LCSW-C

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

Alexander Wheeler
PHD

Wonderful teacher - the training was informative, clear, interactive, and very applicable to a range of clinical situations involving blended families.

Jessie Patton
LCSW

It was everything I was hoping for and more. So much learning happened during it and so much learning will happen as I continue to reckon with the ideas she introduced to us in this training.

Joy Paul
LCSW-C

Very informative. Learned a lot in a short amount of time. The presenter was organized and kept the workshop on schedule.

Nancy Lynch Gibson
LCPC

Dr. Evans is a very engaging and creative clinician and presenter.

Mimi Thomas
LCSW-C

Jonah was organized, articulate and knowledgeble.

Mary Liz Austin
LCPC

Tim was a wise and conscientious presenter with a clear mastery of his subject matter.

Lindsay Cole
LMSW

As a new therapist this has helped solidify my foundation and increased my confidence.

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.

Megan Robison
LCSW-C

I appreciate Lisa's realness. She isn't selling anything. She made me feel positive about myself as a therapist.

Maria Tolbert
LCSW-C

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.

Stephanie

I really appreciated the applicability of the material.

Laura Willard
LCSW-C

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

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.

Carole Elizabeth Miller
LCSW-C

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!!

Karen Reed
LICSW

Jill is an excellent presenter and she made herself available to advise on case material from the students.

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.

Brian Edwards
LCPC

TJ was very genuine and down to earth.

Naomi Haber
LMSW

This presenter understands delivery!

Erica Vohaska

Perspective changing- trauma informed- life changing!

Brooke Jones
CoParent Coach

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.

LaTisha Diggs
MA

Powerful training full of knowledge, caring, and compassion.

Sarah Boone
LCPC

Nancy was a seasoned “pro” and spoke clearly and compassionately about the topic.

Michael Schlein
LCPC

An awesome workshop! I left inspired and better equipped to help my clients.

Julia K.
LCPC

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.

Sumi Holman
LCSW-C

Lisa is always a thoughtful, engaging and warm presenter. She makes everyone feel heard and seen.

N. Faye Powell
PHD, LCPC-S

I found [Understanding and Working with Self-Injurious Behavior (SIB)] to be extremely useful when working with my Clients who present with Trauma based history, to include appreciating how Lisa gave a totally new perspective for Borderline Personality Disorder, which we Clinicians tend to shy away from. I am considering looking into the entire Trauma program that Lisa started. Great job, and will future/other Workshops presented.

Elizabeth Doonan
LCSW-C

The Trauma Informed Treatment, Ethical considerations workshop was interesting, clear, informative and useful throughout. Lisa's authenticity is refreshing, her genuine dedication and advocacy for both the client and practitioner are unparalleled. I am glad I had the chance to attend this unique workshop.

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.

Alysha Warren
LMHC, LPC

Very engaging and creative facilitator.

Kimberly S. Rowan
PHD, LCP

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.

Vicki Rahenkamp
LCPC

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!!

Lisa Pearson
LCPC

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

Hana Perkey
LPC, CPCS, CCTP

I especially liked the presenter's [Dee's] style and the modeling of how to apply what she taught to one's practice.

Sara Ries
LCSW-C

Attending this training was such a positive and meaningful experience. I've gained an essential and vast amount of knowledge related to trauma and its impact that offers a new lens from which to view clients.

Salvatore D'Amore
Psychotherapist

Thank you very much, Patricia, for this wonderful day. I learned so much, both from a clinical perspective and from the human dimension you brought to our work. It was incredibly enriching to learn not only techniques but also the spirit and heart behind them, both from you and from all my colleagues.

Cynthia R.
LCMFT

I look forward to the trainings at the Ferentz institute because I learn meaningful approaches that enhance clinical work. Lisa is a dynamic teacher utilizing researched trauma approaches, she invites participants into experiential exercises that solidify interventions in a whole brain fashion, both cognitive and emotional experiences create deep learning in a nurturing and caring environment. Lisa is attuned and models compassion to the participants.

Cassandra Ekstrom
LCSW-C

She believes what she presents and cares about helping us to be the best therapists we can be.

Alexandra Clarysse
RP, MSW, RSW

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

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!

Janniece Phillips
MED

There are so many aspects of this training that will benefit your work as a clinician or if you are developing a program to serve survivors. This knowledge is imperative to the success and healing of trauma survivors.

Wendy Velazco-Weiss
LCSW-C

Thank you for teaching me how to be a better trauma informed therapist. I have learned valuable techniques and ideas on how to approach the traumatic events that my clients experience. I enjoyed that classes were interactive, and that Lisa was willing to share her successes as well as challenges with clients.

Joseph Rollo
LCSW-C

[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.

Ray Lee Peterson
LMSW

Dee kept us engaged throughout and provided not only very concrete strategies to incorporate into our practice but also resources and information for us to explore later to continue building our knowledge and skills!

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.

Laura Block
LCSW-C

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

Adesuwa L. Osemwegie
LCPC

Jill is approachable and warm. She's always willing to spend time to discuss privately, and is a wonderful person.

Susan Goldart
DSW, LCSW

He is quite well versed in his field and seems to live his ideas.

Lydia Santiago
LCSW

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.

Mariangela Weiskopf
LCPC

Lisa is always an amazing presenter. She shares her wealth of knowledge in a way that can be carried over into my own practice. It is always a privledge to learn from a true master.

Rebecca Steen
LPC

Lisa shared her wealth of knowledge and experience in an engaging and down to earth way.

Amy Sherbin
LCPC

Lisa is an authentic, passionate, and highly gifted trauma informed therapist and educator! Thank you for this amazing opportunity!

Lindsey McDaniel. LCSW-C

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

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!

Jennifer Zwarich
LCSW-C

Dr. Sabrina is inspiring, calming, and full of wisdom. This was a great way to start my journey as a supervisor.

Melissa Tayree Marshall
LGPC

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.

Jamie Christy
LCSW-C

Lisa was wonderful - as always. Her ability to retain engagement for 8 hours is a true talent and skill! So much gratitude for her expertise and skills to educate.

Mario F.
LCSW-C

I enjoyed the presentation and insights. It was nice to connect more intimately with participants 1:1...

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.

Joy Paul
LCSW-C

Sabrina was very engaging and there was good participant interaction.

Katie Richa
LCPC

Dr. Evans is a phenomenal, engaging educator. He is knowledgeable and fun to listen to. I appreciate the experience he brought and his gift of teaching. I will be looking for his trainings in the future.

Joy Paul
LCSW-C

Her experience and the way she presents is with warmth, and she is so engaging.

Nicole O.
LCSW-C

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.

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.

Joseph Rollo
LCSW-C

I believe the most positive take away from the workshop was the opportunity to interact with other participants. I do believe the workshop was well-planned and facilitated.

Mariangela W.
LCPC

The presenter [Dr. Evans] was dynamic, engaging and thought provoking. I imagine he's a remarkable therapist. I appreciated how he combined his clinical knowledge with his love of archetypal storytelling to bring about healing with his clients.

Lindsey McDaniel
LCSW-C

Denise was so knowledgeable and able to pull examples to answer questions and use case examples fluidly.

Kris O’Shee
LPC

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

Jessica P.
LCSW-C

Lisa's training was amazing! Lisa was able to connect the material to real life practice, she was super knowledgeable and passionate about the topic and willing to answer all questions the group had! I cannot wait until I can take another one of her training sessions!

Michael Schlein
LCPC

This was an awesome workshop that gave me the very unique opportunity to learn from the wisdom of a seasoned Rabbi, Priest and therapist. I left the workshop better equipped and more inspired to help my clients.

Shyrielane Watson
PHD, LCPC

Lisa is easy to be with, welcoming, and approachable.

R. Denise Roberson
LPC

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

Stephanie Trisi
LGSW

This program boosted my confidence and confidence as a therapist a TON. The information is so well organized and presented. Lisa is inspiring, motivating, and grounding all at once.

Cherise Fowlkes
LCSW-C

Sabrina was extremely engaging, welcoming, personable, knowledgeable. Her real-life experiences in the field integrated into the training helped to support the concepts she was teaching. Unforgettable!

Sara Moye
LMSW

The presenter was inclusive and compassionate, as well as well informed and intelligent.

Melissa Brown
LCPC

Although I recently attended another CEU about IFS (internal family systems) therapy, I did not hesitate to attend [Using Expressive Modalities to Connect With and Soothe Traumatized Parts] as I knew she would add depth and knowledge to the subject. I was not disappointed, and I was happy to gain insights that have helped me personally and professionally.

Stephanie Barbara Perry
LCSW-C

She demonstrated enthusiasm and compassion for the people she works with.

Stephanie Crockett
LGPC

Lisa Ferentz's program in Advanced Trauma Treatment level I is the must-have for every clinician, no matter their population or therapeutic approach. Not only can this training help inform your work with trauma clients, it can provide another layer of therapeutic empathy that can be applied to all clients, and modalities that can be used with any client.

Myra Kaplan
Ph.D

Lisa has the ability to frame theory, concepts, and interventions in applicable terms.

Joy Paul
LCSW-C

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.

Renee Drehmer
LCPC

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.

Laura Malone
LMSW

The program was incredibly informative. The way Lisa structured and presented the information was great!

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.

Keisha Watson
LCPC, NCC

Lisa was awesome, full of positive energy and a wealth of information. [Ethical Dilemmas in Clinical Practice] offered updated information on COMAR for clinicians that work in the DMV area with realistic case dilemmas for us to learn from.

Mary Vansickle
LCSW-C

A wonderful experience. This will certainly enhance my skills in working with traumatized children.

Karen Ross Taylor
LCSW-C

This program is an extraordinary interpretation of several therapeutic modalities and an interesting and heartfelt alternative to the manualized, mechanical CEU offerings elsewhere.

Jennifer Crooks
LCSW-C

Lisa teaches relevant and effective interventions and makes learning fun!

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!

Cherise Fowlkes
LCSW-C

Sabrina was inviting, engaging, and extremely knowledgeable. She was able to connect with each of the participants in some way. The connection made me feel like I mattered. You can really see that she loves the work she does.

Lisa Pearson
LCPC

Great energy and passionate about the topic of attachment as well as her clients.

Jordan Klebanow
LICSW

Lisa is a wonderful instructor and her course will mark a turning point in your practice.

Alexis Bruce
LCSW-C

Sabrina was very personable and allowed you to discuss situations that often made you feel vulnerable if you were to share it with other leaders/supervisors. I liked how she allowed you to feel safe and reflect on how to best address supervisory issues. I love the questions to ask Supervisees on what they will find helpful out of supervision, being better at focusing on my own self-care prior, during, and after supervision, and exercising Supervision as a ritual.

Nancy Meyer
MSW. LCSW-C

The case examples were extremely helpful. Lisa is an extremely knowledgeable, clear, organized, engaging, and approachable presenter.

Michelle Hammer
LCPC, CPC

[Creative Techniques for Managing Traumatic Stress: Grounding, Containment, and Resourcing] was, by far the most effective CEU training I've attended regarding experiential interventions for Trauma. [The presenter] wonderfully balanced between the theory and practice of grounding, containment, and resourcing all the while leading and modelling by example her practical interventions via affording us all the opportunity to experience them. Well worth the time and memorable.

Jill Minsky
LCSW-C

[Trauma Informed Assessment and Treatment: Ethical Considerations] was very informative. Lisa always does an outstanding job making it fun and interesting.

Dorothy Adamson Holley
PHD, LCSW-C

The Level I Trauma Certification Program has totally transformed my practice! The conceptual framework and immediately-applicable clinical tools gave me the confidence to work with any client who has experienced trauma. Lisa and her team are phenomenal!

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.