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 6-hour workshop we will set the stage for a clinical and philosophical approach to trauma informed treatment.
This workshop will equip participants with the skills and knowledge necessary to support the developmental and relational success of students with ADHD.
In this workshop, you'll explore a step by step process to help couples recover from infidelity.
Heidi made me feel safe to ask questions and responded in a concise and understandable manner.
I really enjoyed the case examples and breakout groups and her lived experience.
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!
Sabrina presents her heart and spirit in the training. Genuine and sincere, while grounded in theory and experience.
I enjoyed this workshop [Using Expressive Modalities to Connect With and Soothe Traumatized Parts]. I feel like this and other offerings at the Ferentz Institute are the only time I receive continuing education that really, really speaks to these matters in a substantive manner. I hope to be able to attend more workshops in the near future. This particular one was impressive at the depth we went to in a relatively short amount of time.
If you're fortunate enough to attend this training I highly recommend doing so. The financial and time commitment pales in comparison to the value of experiences and knowledge gained throughout this program. It really was wonderful and I feel like it provided opportunity for both professional and personal growth.
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.
[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.
[Individualizing Treatment for Children and Adolescents with Complex Trauma and Dissociation] was a very informative training and I learned a lot. I was very happy that I attended this training and hope to attend future trainings with the institute.
I really appreciated Lisa's approachable, super informed, and engaging presentation style [in Understanding and Working with Self-Injurious Behavior (SIB)]. The material was so applicable to not only conceptualization but also practice.
This training brought me invaluable information on how trauma is experienced and taught me new treatment options that allow me to respond to my clients, and teach my staff, accordingly. The fact that this was done in such a caring, humorous, and insightful manner serve to enhance my learning experience.
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.
The presenter of the workshop had a calming energy about her, and genuinely seemed interested in what was being discussed.
The facilitator [Sabrina] of the workshop was able to artfully and compassionately develop a wonderful learning environment. The information and experiential learning enhanced my personal growth and professional development.
Lisa's trauma curriculum should be a requirement for all aspiring clinicians.
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.
I believe the most positive take away from [Working with Dreams: Tapping into an Inner Wisdom] was the opportunity to interact with other participants. I do believe the workshop was well-planned and facilitated.
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.
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.
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.
When I learned that my agency was going to sponsor me to take the Trauma Certificate, Level I Course, I was ecstatic. I was eager to learn as much as I could from Lisa's expertise, and she absolutely delivered. I have already used several of the recommended clinical tools; clients have been very receptive, even surprised, by how helpful they found the method(s) to be. I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to learn invaluable clinical knowledge and skills!
This was the most informative and interactive training that I have ever attended. I would recommend this training to anyone.
[Creative Techniques for Managing Traumatic Stress: Grounding, Containment, and Resourcing was a] great introduction to some art therapy techniques specifically aimed for individuals who've experienced trauma.
This workshop was unbelievably informative. The facilitator was extremely engaging and presented in a way that could be easily implemented into one's practice.
Dr. Evans is an amazing speaker. His delivery and command of the subject matter 'Superwoman Schema in Black Women' was truly life changing for me. The information gained will be shared with others to help restore and transform their lives, as well.
This workshop was very insightful. I learned so much about how to make clinical supervision effective utilizing a holistic approach. Dr. Sabrina provided a lot of relatable information. She was real and present throughout the entire workshop.
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!
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!
Timothy was thoughtful, compassionate and extremely knowledgeable on the topic and provided excellent tools and resources to engage in the work with gender expansive youth more meaningfully and with greater intention.
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.
This training has been a priceless investment which I believe will change my practice for many years to come.
[Lisa] kept the audience very engaged in the discussion [during Ethical Dilemmas in Clinical Practice].
This training was worth the investment. It increased my confidence as well as my competence and my ability to both maintain and model healthy boundaries and work-life balance. Lisa is a very inspiring mentor.
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!
Thank you so much for sharing your experience with us! Amazing training!
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.
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!
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.
She was very knowledgeable, very organized and interactive and informative. Loved the real life case studies.
The Trauma Informed Assessments and Treatment training was nearly life changing for me as a clinician. Lisa was empowering, direct and willing to answer any question thrown her way. I took information from this training that I started using in my own practice immediately.
Patricia offers a succinct and engaging presentation and teaching style. I appreciated her articulate presentation and deep knowledge about such a crucial topic.
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.
Patricia Papernow is very clear, her presence and engagement with participants is natural; she creates safety, invites questions and feedback, makes room for questions along the way, is clearly passionate and knowledgeable about the content. Supportive of sharing handouts with other clinicians, and includes handouts to give to clients. Amazing amount of resources given to us. Thank YOU!
I have grown as a therapist over the last nine sessions and I believe my growth allows me to see and access the strengths and resiliency in my clients in a new and different way.
Dr. N'Diaye brings warmth and expertise to this training. She inspires, models, and teaches effective technique within a well developed theoretical frame.
This workshop was a unique and inspiring sharing of wisdom, knowledge and support for each of us as clinicians and as humans. Dr. Sabrina is an amazing presenter with an abundance of knowledge and inspiration for every one of us!
Lisa “holds a space” for her students in a way that is restorative, empowering, comforting, and grounding. I highly valued all of my time in Level I and Level II with Lisa and her faculty. If you live within driving distance of an event provided by Lisa- make the time to attend! Soul altering work!
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.
This program reinforced and strengthened my confidence and skills. I have noticed clinically significant results in my clients through implementing the tools provided in this training.
[Trauma Informed Assessment and Treatment: Ethical Considerations} was a rewarding workshop with a more macro view on ethical treatment of clients. Like all of Lisa's work (and trauma work in general) the workshop emphasizes the importance of relationship and pacing to ensure the safety of the client. The workshop provided specific ways to give clients a safe intake and assessment experience that does not trigger the client and is still informative for the therapist.
Sabrina lead with her heart throughout the entire training. Powerful experience with tangible take-aways.
I've done numerous advanced trainings but this one was head and shoulders above the rest. Lisa's passion and non-pathologizing stance transformed the way I view my clients and inspired me to more creative in my work.
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.
The Ferentz Institute Level I and II has changed the way I practice. These experiences have provided me with effective strategies to assist clients in moving through their trauma experiences safely.
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.
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 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!!
[Lisa] created a beautiful working environment that fostered participation and great discussion. [Ethical Dilemmas in Clinical Practice] was well prepared and went over the necessary information holding everyone's interest and attention.
This program gave me, as a seasoned clinician, so much insight about how to be trauma informed in every aspect of treatment: intake environment, parts work, and termination. Thank you!
[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!
The training framed supervision as relational, ethical, and helpful as compared to simply policing and gatekeeping.
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!
Had a great time [at Filling Your Experiential Toolbox: The Empty Chair, The Double and Role Play Techniques]. Very informative. Loved the facilitator!
I feel more alive in my practice that I ever have. Digging in and learning has been rejuvenating. Feeling like I am aware of the latest trauma research has made me look at my practice with “new eyes.” I can't imagine working with eating disordered clients without what I have learned.
Advanced Trauma Training was an amazing experiential and educational experience that advanced my skills, knowledge and support for doing the work I love.
Thank you, Lisa, and everyone at the Ferentz Institute, for putting together such an amazing program. I am a better clinician for attending each class. She is a gift on so many levels to those of us in the field. I gained a greater knowledge base as a result I now have new colleagues and new tools to continue learning, growing, and have a renewed passion for what we do.
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.
Lisa is amazing. She has a wealth of knowledge that is incredibly useful to working in the field of mental health. She is incredibly generous and thoughtful in her treatment of the professionals who take her program. I've gained a lot of confidence going forth to share my knowledge with clients who have endured trauma. I strongly recommend discrete training to anyone in the mental health profession. You won't regret it!
She [Susan] connects with her audience with warmth and humor.
This was the most non-triggering, emotionally safe and supportive training on trauma I've ever experienced. Given the nature of this important content, the way the material was presented was truly masterful and informative.
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.
Patricia is Fantastic. Her energy is Beautiful!
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 is a breath of fresh air. She exudes compassion and understanding, She is the model of the perfect therapist.
Susan was very human and approachable.
Lisa is a gem. I have learned so many wonderful techniques and gained a fresh perspective on my work with trauma survivors.
Sabrina was a wealth of knowledge and experience and her presentation style is comforting, making it easy to be engaged even through zoom. I appreciated her and the training immensely!
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!
I was very impressed with this seminar. The facilitator not only made the seminar enjoyable, but she was extremely knowledgable and shared her experiences. I definitely look forward to attending more seminars.
Sabrina as a trainer is outstanding. I loved the breakout sessions.
Great resource provided by a gifted teacher & clinician.
This workshop facilitated by Lisa Ferentz was wonderful! It was very informative and the zoom presentation was as interactive and helpful as her workshops usually are, whether in person or on-line. Thank you Lisa!
She was very interactive and kept a positive attitude during the entire training.
Going through the Level I and II trauma training has given me a wide array of skills to use in clinical practice that all stem from a strengths-based model. The trainings have not only helped me learn to guide clients to access their wisest and most compassionate self, but has also helped me to further access my wisest self to improve my work as a clinician.
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.
The Level II expressive trainings have opened my ability, my knowledge, and my comfort level in using these strategies in session. The trainings also shine a light on areas I'd like to explore more in-depth. Thanks for a wonderful experience!
I gained immensely from Lisa's level one trauma training, and I am really looking forward to continue learning from her.
As a clinician, one of the most important tools we have is our self. Lisa helped me find my own internal wisdom and see my blind spots.
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.
I loved her [Denise's] knowledge, understanding & ability to communicate with the audience. Her passion was demonstrated by her presentation.
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.
She [Susan] was very knowledgeable, very organized and it interactive and informative. Loved the real life case studies.
[Sabrina is] Engaging, dynamic, thought provoking and fun!
I loved the training. Very informative.
Dr. Evan’s 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.
Timothy was so wise and supportive in the way he presented the material. The environment was comfortable and facilitated space for questions and thoughts among participants, which is not always the case in virtual workshops.
This training is amazing and provides a thorough foundation to work with clients with trauma. Everything learned helped my growth as a clinician.
Lisa's style of teaching and material were so enlightening. I feel much more prepared to work with client's than I did before the course. I highly recommend the training.
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.
Susan was personable and good-natured. Combined with her being informed that made the workshop valuable.
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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3701 Old Court Road, Suite #5
Baltimore, MD 21208
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