By clicking “Accept All Cookies”, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. View our Privacy Policy for more information.
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
A man sitting and reading about a workshop.

Discover our Inspiring Workshops

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

Learn More
A picture of Lisa Ferentz.

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:

Sumi Holman
LCSW-C

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

Ryan Malphrus
LCSW-C

[Trauma Informed Assessment and Treatment: Ethical Considerations] was well paced and delivered in a good conversational manner.

Shannon Harris
LMSW

Lisa is very intentional in how she teaches the information. It�s helpful that she reinforces previous information by integrating it with new information.

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.

Elizabeth Kopta
LMSW

I thought the presenter was knowledgeable and had the perfect calming presence for this workshop.

Mary Liz Austin
LCPC

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

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.

Emma P.
LCSW

Lisa is a gifted and energized speaker who speaks with a passion for the difficult work with trauma survivors. The workshop had immediate practical applications for day to day sessions with clients.

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!

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.

Janel Cubbage
LCPC

Dr. Evans was very personable, engaged in and encouraged dialogue. He was enthusiastic and offered so many good references to drive home understanding of the material.

Joel Lightfoot
LCSW-C

Most of the presenters were amazing. I learned a lot from the experiential techniques.

Melynda Klausner
LGPC

Advanced Trauma Training was an amazing experiential and educational experience that advanced my skills, knowledge and support for doing the work I love.

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.

Brinley Holmes
LCSW-C

The presenter was extremely knowledgeable and engaging. I learned a lot about the topic and how to apply the concepts to a broader population of clients. I highly recommend this training for those looking to use a perspective that encompasses cultural and familial contexts in supporting clients to change what no longer services them in pursuit of their goals.

Naomi Haber
LMSW

This presenter understands delivery!

Jenny Jarrell
LCSW-C

[Susan is] Very informative and made the training interesting and interactive.

Viven Deitz
LCSW-C, BCD

Listening to one of the most talented and gifted therapists was an absolute treat!

Erica Vohaska

Perspective changing- trauma informed- life changing!

Shyrielane Watson
PHD, LCPC

I really liked the presenters knowledge and helpful answers throughout the training.

Michele Sterling
LCSW-C

The way she [Lisa Maistri] involved us but never made us feel uncomfortable.

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.

Amy Greenberg
LCPC

Dr. Carter managed to make a Zoom training feel like it was taking place in person. He covered a great deal of material while also making time for questions throughout the presentation. Thank you!

Parke Sterling
LPC

Susan was personable and good-natured. Combined with her being informed that made the workshop valuable.

Jennifer Crooks
LCSW-C

Lisa provides a comfortable learning environment. The presentations are clear and thoughts, feedback and questions are always welcome.

April M.
LMSW

The presentation was very informative. The presenter was mindful of the technology.

Gavriel Horan
LMSW

Lisa is a breath of fresh air. She exudes compassion and understanding, She is the model of the perfect therapist.

Erin Clark
LCSW-C

Fantastic techniques shared that made me excited to get back to work and use with my clients.

Jessica LeTourneau
LCPC

Great information with experiential exercises. I really enjoyed connecting with the other participants.

Caroline Hinkley
Victim Advocate

The Level I training was easily the most valuable training I've ever had. Not only was it professionally helpful, but personally. This class was so emotionally refreshing. I feel as if I have a bright new outlook on my profession and I am eternally grateful.

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.

Gabriella King
LGPC

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

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!

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.

Edward Diamond
Registered Psychology Associate

The presenter [for Working with Dreams: Tapping into an Inner Wisdom] had a good grasp of the material and was exceptionally well prepared.

Kim McCalpin
Psychologist

I loved the trainer!

Laurey Richmond
LCPC

Janina has a high level of experience and knowledge.

Sara Chaves
LCSW-C

This was an amazing experience that helped me connect with my inner creative side. Dee did an incredible job engaging the audience and guiding us to think outside the box.

Jennie Strauss
LCSW-C

From the start, I knew a made a great choice in investing my time and emotions in this program. I've learned so many tools and strategies to help my patients cope with their trauma and I've learned a lot about myself and how I can best support and guide my patients.

Sarah Boone
LCPC

Jonah had a depth of knowledge and understanding of the material and was a clear communicator.

Jenna Adler
LCSW-C

Lisa is outstanding at teaching. She can make complicated topics easy to understand. She is also very warm and welcoming.

Mika Byam
LCSW-C

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.

Tiffany O'Hara
LCPC

I appreciated the way the presenter [Lisa] didn't just read from the slides but added to them with her own experience and knowledge base. It was clear that she was passionate and knowledgeable of the information.

Timothy E.
LCSW, LICSW, LCSW-C

Sabrina led with her heart throughout the entire training. Powerful experience with tangible take-aways.

Kathy Haerian

[Peggy] is highly experienced and provided trauma informed care regarding incorporating collage into your practice. [Trauma Informed Collage Methods] also focused on the importance of art belonging to the client, and reminded about the importance of this being one of the true principles of the experiential work.

Mariangela Weiskopf
LCPC

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.

Jennifer Crooks
LCSW-C

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

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.

Nancy Lynch Gibson
LCPC

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

Sarah P. Lewis
MSW LCSW

The materials were comprehensive and easy to follow. The instruction style was engaging and supportive.

Jacqueline Trombley
LCSW-C

Facility was convenient and comfortable. Process was organized. Presenter was knowledgeable and helpful. Content [for Effectively Treating Anxiety and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder] was great!

Miesha Scott
LCSW-C

Very knowledgeable and engaging.

Christine Barnes
LCSW-C

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

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!

Emily Perrin
LMSW

Jill was fantastic. Interactive, engaging and loved her entire approach to movement and art.

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.

Corinne Heiliger
LCPC

One of the best trainings I�ve been to in quite a while. Instructor was kind, personable, knowledgeable and loved how applicable the techniques are to my practice. Also, thank you to Lisa for having magazines for collages that centered people of color-really appreciated this.

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.

Margaret Higgins
LCSW-C

Jill demonstrated her skill in providing a safe environment as she shared concrete activities to help clients regulate their flooding/triggers.

Edina Adler
LCSW, Mediator

I liked [Patricia's] her warmth, and wealth of knowledge, and approachability.

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.

Shereen Ghori
LMSW

The session on [Evolving Treatment in the Face of the Opioid Epidemic] was informative especially for someone who is not in the field of substance abuse.

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.

Justine Muyu
LCPC

Lisa is an exceptional trainer. Knowledgeable, clinically experienced and very good at breaking down research in accessible and practical ways. I walked away with a greater understanding of the problem and strategies to help my clients deal with it immediately.

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.

Karen Reed
LICSW

I appreciated our collaborating with peers and faculty, discussing cases and hearing feedback.

Elizabeth G.
LCPC

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.

Amy Heilman
LCSW-C

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.

Deborah Wolff
LCSW

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!!

Sara Chaves
LCSW-C

Lisa presented an exceptionally well-researched overview of the risks, myths, and ethical dilemmas surrounding cannabis use in clinical practice. What stood out most was her ability to translate complex scientific studies into clear, practical takeaways for mental health providers. She didn’t just present data—she helped us think critically about how to apply this knowledge in our work with clients. The presentation was not only informative but passionate.

Sabeen Matalka
LGPC

Jake was an incredible presenter! He was very authentic and genuine in the way he showed up as a presenter and a person in the space! Thank you so much.

Jacqueline Cleland
PsyD

I especially appreciated Salicia's authenticity and presence.

Rona Levi
LCSW-C

Lisa is a terrific therapist, a terrific teacher, a terrific presenter!

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.

Joy Paul
LCSW-C

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.

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!

David Facenda
LICSW

I especially liked Jill's style, calmness, and pacing of the material.

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.

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.

Sharazad Haimanchandra
LMSW

Aliza spoke in a calm, regulating manner. She was encouraging and knowledgeable.

Katy Kropff
LPC, LCPAT, ATR-BC

I learned so much in this program. Lisa is so knowledgeable and understanding. There is so much time to connect with other clinicians and share different techniques.

Nicole O.
LCSW-C

Dr. Sabrina is a 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.

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.

Paul Timin
LCSW-C

Susan connects with her audience with warmth and humor.

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.

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!

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.

Ayxa Kalai
LCSW-C

The facilitator [Lisa] was incredibly knowledgeable. The information [in Trauma Informed Assessment and Treatment: Ethical Considerations] given was relatable, concrete examples of how to apply in our daily jobs.

Yasmin Meyers
LCSW-C

Lisa is very dynamic, compassionate and uses humor while presenting material that may be challenging.

Myra Kaplan
Ph.D

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

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.

Shannon Waliser
MSW, MPA, LICSW

Sabrina is knowledgeable, personable and authentic. When I sign up to do 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.

Andrea Regenberg
LCSW-C

[Trauma Informed Assessment and Treatment: Ethical Considerations] was wonderful in terms of really considering the effects of trauma and how to identify the respond to them in the therapy session. Lisa's knowledge, warmth and enthusiasm keep me motivated in my growth as a clinician.

Amy L. Whitesel
PHD, LCSW-C

Patricia was very engaging and offered a truly interactive experience. She is clearly very knowledgeable on this topic.

Ivy Edelstein
LMSW

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.

Nancy J. Frank
LCPC

I found that the online format was an excellent way to attend the program, no stress, no travel, great timing of information and breaks. I felt that it worked wonderfully. Thank you so much for your knowledge, your insights, your delivery and your absolute Unconditional Positive Regard!!

Kit MacFarlane

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.

Lindsay Cole
LMSW

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

Wayne Evans
PhD

Sabrina creates training experiences that are spiritually nourishing and intellectually edifying. She is an amazing teacher who elevates the consciousness of every room she walks into. It is both a pleasure and blessing to learn from her.

Ilene Gallner-Toller
LCSW-C

[Working with Dreams: Tapping into an Inner Wisdom was a] very powerful and experiential workshop! We were constantly engaged in experiential learning, even while taking in theory. Awesome!

Barbara Crawford
LMSW

[Trauma Informed Assessment and Treatment: Ethical Considerations] has enlightened my perspective on being able to gather imperative information in a safe matter that does not harm or re-traumatized a survivor. Her [Lisa] assessment questions are designed to allocate the client's ability to tell their story without partaking in a reenactment phenomenon. Great information for anyone who works with traumatized population.

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.