
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.
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.
Explore strategies to help Black men navigate racism and trauma, replacing 'just surviving' with thriving, meaningful lives rooted in resilience and self-worth.
TJ was very genuine and down to earth.
I especially liked learning about the way she has handled some of her cases and her amazing experience treating clients with complex PTSD.
Fantastic techniques shared that made me excited to get back to work and use with my clients.
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!
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!
The presenter [for Working with Dreams: Tapping into an Inner Wisdom] had a good grasp of the material and was exceptionally well prepared.
Sabrina radiates knowledge, love, compassion, and empathy. I love that she shows up as herself and makes others feel more comfortable being themselves.
This has been, by far, the most useful and high quality training I have ever attended! I recommend this to any mental health professional and really anyone in a helping/health profession.
I loved the trainer!
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!
I especially loved Lisa's energy and passion for the subject despite feeling unwell. Her depth of knowledge and experience.
Dr. Wayne was able to skillfully weave teaching strategies so successfully, from referencing comic books, graphic novels, movies, tv shows, biblical stories, personal stories, humor, songs/music. All of these teaching modalities helped drive home his points not just on an intellectual level, but also a visceral level. His optimism and refusal to reside in a 'I'm trapped and so are you' mode was so hopeful and inspiring.
Lisa is open, approachable, knowledgeable and warm.
If you are a clinician Lisa Ferentz's trauma training is one you cannot miss!!
I honestly don't have the words to quantify how much I love and appreciate every minute of the Level 1 & 2 Trauma Training Program. The impact on both my personal and professional life have been profound. I wish the experience for every person called to a helping profession. I will always regard Lisa with gratitude for providing this opportunity.
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.
Presenter had a great depth of knowledge on grief that will serve my future clients well!
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 way Salicia facilitated the exercises was most powerful and supportive.
Lisa does an exceptional job connecting with her audience and educating them at the same time.
This program has helped me to become a more competent and confident clinician. I have begun using the skills and interventions from this program with current clients, and the shift in my practice and the progress of my clients has been amazing to witness. I recommend this program to every clinician who wants to develop or strengthen skills and knowledge of trauma informed care.
Dr. Papernow's knowledge and understanding of the material is so notable. Knowledge that once shared helps therapists to avoid making the easy mistakes. Knowledge that she can share in a way that was easy to absorb.
The trainer [Lisa] was very knowledgeable and also engaging.
I feel like my work is taking a new direction. Thank you for all of the ideas I could use immediately after each session.
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.
Dr. Papernow was awesome! Used dialogue the whole training that modeled appropriate use of the teachings in our practices.
Lisa teaches relevant and effective interventions and makes learning fun!
Lisa is extremely knowledgeable, funny, kind, and encouraging.
Lisa is a talented presenter who uses presence and attunement to ensure that participants feel empowered and connected. Thank you so much!
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.
Clear, succinct, lively, personable.
Lisa is incredibly engaging, knowledgeable, compassionate and creates trainings where I learn a great deal in a lovely setting. She makes us feel comfortable and cared for. She is the best!!
I enjoyed the presenters [in Individualizing Treatment for Children and Adolescents with Complex Trauma and Dissociation]; they were engaging, informative, current, and had a perspective which I believe broadened my own. They offered breakfast, snacks, and all day coffee. What could be better than being nurtured and informed!
The Trauma Certificate program was extremely valuable and has contributed immensely to my work with clients. It has been the best investment I have made in regards to my clinical practice.
Dr. Carter was very passionate about the material he was teaching and seemed genuinely happy to take questions and talk with participants which helped more people open up.
Presenter was knowledgeable, articulate, provided excellent antecdotes, as well as providing excellent take aways that I will utilize tomorrow in my sessions.
She was very kind, empathetic, and aware. I really liked her! The topic and info just did not keep my attention easily.
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!
Each class was so eye-opening. My colleague and I were frequently turning to one another saying that we loved all of the new information that we were receiving. I am excited to pass along the education and skills to my clients.
Attending Lisa's Level I and Level II Trauma Trainings has been a truly beautiful experience. My level of insight and practice has grown so much in my time here.
Jonah was knowledgeable, engaged, responsive, and modeled strengths-based language and teaching. He did really well responding to chatbox comments immediately and respectfully.
Lisa is a fantastic presenter. Knowledgeable, charismatic, and friendly!
Sabrina provided a safe space that allows everyone to open up which in turns creates this instant connection with the other trainees.
Dr. Papernow brings the perfect balance of warmth, knowledge, and skill to the topic of stepfamilies. Her care for this population is clearly evident, and she instills the confidence needed to tackle these complex issues with sensitivity and compassion.
Lisa creates such an open environment for learning. Whether you are a new or experienced clinician, the level one trauma certificate training, has something valuable for you to bring to your clinical work.
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.
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.
[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!
This program provides the essential necessary for effective practice. I've been a licensed social worker for 17 years and this program was more beneficial than any graduate class or training I have ever taken. Thank you, Lisa!
Susan and Heather were a great team [in Couples Work and Why it Matters in Modern Times]. They worked together to highlight where their modalities overlapped and differed. They were both very knowledgable.
After taking the Trauma Informed Assessment and Treatment training, I feel more confident in how to ask questions about a history of trauma that are properly paced and that will not re-traumatize the victim. As an art therapist, I see more creative ways to ground clients using aromatherapy, tactile objects, sand tray, and visual imagery to support the trauma assessment process. I recommend this training to all therapist.
I was moved by the dialogue, and I now have a better understanding of the benefits of balancing spirituality and psycho-therapy. The therapist [Lisa] was awesome and one could get sense as to why she is so sought after. The feedback from the Rabbi [Goldberger] and the Priest [Father Ray] offered for me a unique look into the both perspectives and how each saw how the inclusion of spiritually can help ones clients achieve post recovery.
Sabrina leads with her heart and invites us all to do the same. This approach coupled with her immense experience and insight allowed me to both learn new skills and ways of conceptualizing the work as well as tap deeper into my own wisdom and expertise.
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.
Lisa Ferentz is a captivating and engaging speaker. [In Understanding and Working with Self-Injurious Behavior (SIB)] she provided worksheets and techniques for immediate use. I am looking forward to taking another training from her in the future.
I highly recommend this program to any therapist who wishes to take their professional game to the next level.
This course gave me the knowledge, skills, and confidence to treat clients with trauma. I would 100% recommend it! It's the course I wish I had in graduate school!
This was the most informative and interactive training that I have ever attended. I would recommend this training to anyone.
Lisa would address all questions, gave lots of case examples and was so knowledgeable and kind.
This program is an absolute must for any clinician who is serious about providing the best therapeutic care to all clients.
[Using Expressive Modalities to Connect With and Soothe Traumatized Parts] 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.
In [Master Class – Case Consultation: Treating Post-Partum Mood Disorders Through a Trauma Lens] Robyn did a beautiful job of bridging the gap between two important and highly intertwined areas of clinical focus, which too often aren't talked about intersectionally. I'd highly recommend this training!
The presenter.is clear, organized, thoughtful, and sensitive to the needs of the participants.
Susan was incredibly engaging and knowledgeable about anxiety and OCD disorders. I normally dislike group activities but these made sense and were fun!
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.
Peggy was personable and knowledgeable in teaching her subject; her ethical guidance was gentle yet authoritative, and she was well prepared to help students learn more about multiple forms of art media.
Gosh, it's hard to limit. There is so much to admire. I think I'd have to say what I like best is Lisa's ability to organize the wealth of her knowledge/concepts in such an organized fashion and her openness to generously share the wealth and specifics of her practical experience and knowledge with others. By doing so, she is spreading her important concepts and compassion for others to more effectively serve clients.
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.
[Working with Dreams: Tapping into an Inner Wisdom had] great information with experiential exercises. I really enjoyed connecting with the other participants.
This training was a game-changer for me. The strength-based approach Lisa takes has transformed the way I see my clients and the range of practical tools we were given has revitalized my work with them.
She believes what she presents and cares about helping us to be the best therapists we can be.
[Staying Within the Window of Tolerance: Breath Work and Body-Centered Modalities for Affect Regulation] was superb. The experiential part was priceless, and I have practiced the techniques repeatedly since the training – without ever having to go dig up the (excellent) handouts. Stacey was terrific.. she really knows her stuff and communicated it in wonderfully practical and USEFUL ways that I expect to continue using for many years. THANK YOU!! I will continue to travel to The Ferentz Institute as often as I can afford to do so for the best and most PRACTICAL trainings of any kind I've ever had!)
Lisa has a way to make the information accessible and reducing imposter syndrome.
I liked Dr. Evans' passion for his topic, the handouts and journaling at the end; his ability to engage the room, with 5 of the 17 participants not being African American or brown skinned; his not shying away from anger in a very articulate participant; and his willingness to share out of his own life, practice, and his faith.
As a Black woman, this seminar spoke to me on so many levels. It was relatable to both my personal and my professional life. This was an amazing experience that I highly recommend to others.
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.
TJ was very genuine and down to earth.
She [Sabrina] was down to earth, knowledgeable, affirming, inspiring and open.
Denise was excellent all around. Her use of real case examples to illustrate her narrative allowed her to present a very complex subject.
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.
Lisa is extremely knowledgable, but still approachable. She made the training engaging and enjoyable.
Sabrina is extremely knowledgeable. Her way of teaching helps you see yourself from a different prospective. Helps identify your strengths and what you need to work on. She provides real world examples and how to work through real challenges.
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.
I just loved how approachable Peggy was. There’s something so admirable about a brilliant professional who is so confident and doesn’t need to ACT brilliant. I also enjoyed the content of her course and really respected how she was neither defensive nor condescending when people asked questions in class. I hope I can do that when I teach.
Clear, meaningful presentation connects well with other approaches that I use, presenter [Arielle Seidler] was excellent in energy, openness, flexibility, good vibes all around…
The way she [Lisa Maistri] involved us but never made us feel uncomfortable.
Lisa allowed me to feel open express my ideas and ask questions.
Jill is approachable and warm. She's always willing to spend time to discuss privately, and is a wonderful person.
Authentic, clinical use of self and how she incorporated theroy with realistic strategies you can use.
Lisa�s knowledge on the subject matter is incredible.
What a powerful comprehensive training! Lisa does a phenomenal job thoughtfully addressing multiple aspects of trauma-informed work with clients along with consistently providing specific, concrete practical applications. Her expertise and talent in communication provided me a solid foundation and that will enhance my work with clients. I'm grateful for the experience. Thank you!
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.
This training gave me new insight as an advocate and really put things in a new light.
[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.
Susan was personable and good-natured. Combined with her being informed that made the workshop valuable.
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.
Getting to utilize and incorporate various expressive therapies in practice has allowed me to better meet the needs of all clients I see, but to especially address the unique needs of the adolescent. Thank you, Lisa, for your passion and mission of equipping all providers with the knowledge and means to address trauma from a safe, strengths-based approach.
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.
Sabrina is great- very real. Great interactive activities. Looked forward to part 2.
Jill is so invested and connected to the work and this is apparent in her teaching.
This workshop was a unique and inspiring sharing of wisdom, knowledge and support for each of us a clinicians and as humans. Dr. Sabrina is an amazing presenter with an abundance of knowledge and inspiration for every one of us!
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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