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 make the connection between the inevitable coping strategies that emerge for abused and neglected children and how those behaviors create suffering and dysfunction in adulthood.
In this workshop, we’ll explore Exposure/Response Prevention (Ex/RP), a model that’s been shown to be highly effective.
Lisa's trauma training has brought me to a new level as a clinician. This should be required education for anyone in the clinical care or educational setting. The knowledge and resources gained through this course are invaluable.
Lisa's personality and presentation skills added entertainment and engagement for participants. The experience was well worth the investment of time and money.
Lisa's training has been one of the most meaningful experiences in my career. Lisa is engaging and makes material easy to process. She is warm, validating, direct and clear. I left each session feeling more resourced, with concrete interventions and a new appreciation for my role as a therapist as well as for my clients.
[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.
[Trauma Informed Collage Methods] greatly refreshed my knowledge as an art therapist, but perhaps more importantly, I recognized the value of collage in working with difficult to reach populations. While the collage experiencials we completed were fun and relaxing, in a new way I could more confidently apply the powerful intuitive processes of collage with people who have lost everything.
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.
Sabrina was very knowledgeable and offered new content in a way that was inspiring and easy to digest.
I truly appreciated her integrated approach, her authenticity and the sharing of personal examples. She [Sabrina] made the virtual space feel welcoming and comfortable.
She was very interactive and kept a positive attitude during the entire training.
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.
I highly recommend this program to any therapist who wishes to take their professional game to the next level.
[Staying Within the Window of Tolerance] was one of the best workshops I have attended. The Ferentz Institute consistently provides talented, experienced, engaging speakers, who track the newest innovations in their fields, within a very welcoming, comfortable milieu.
[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.
I liked [Patricia's] her warmth, and wealth of knowledge, and approachability.
This program helped me grow so much, not just as a clinician, but also as an individual.
This program has profoundly changed the way in which I see trauma and interact with clients who are still living with and coping with trauma. Honestly, I feel like I have grown as a therapist and I know that patients I see, now and in the future, will benefit from the work I did in this training. I strongly recommend it to all professionals! Thank you, Lisa!
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.
Lisa's program is an invaluable resource. I ended every class eager to implement the new tools she shared. It was amazing to see the responses from my clients. I have not been able to stop talking with my colleagues about the program. Truly, everyone should attend Lisa's program!
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.
[In Trauma Informed Assessment and Treatment: Ethical Considerations] Lisa Ferentz offers light to all counselors who place their clients first & foremost, in a field that has become mired and one which I barely recognize after 35 years. Given that grief & trauma encapsulate our daily lives and most definitely, in the lives of our clients, I remain befuddled as to why grief & trauma education is not placed at the foremost and a basic requirement of any counseling/social work program.
The way Salicia facilitated the exercises was most powerful and supportive.
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.
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.
Dr. Wayne's personality is so real and authentic. He was warm, welcoming, greeted us each personally and engaged with us in relatable and understandable ways. Not 'academic' or 'stuffy' as some can be when presenting.
I loved the training. Very informative.
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.
The presenter of the workshop had a calming energy about her, and genuinely seemed interested in what was being discussed.
[Sabrina is] Very engaging and passionate about supervision! Very relatable and encouraged self-reflection.
Great information with experiential exercises. I really enjoyed connecting with the other participants.
Dr. Sabrina is inspiring, calming, and full of wisdom. This was a great way to start my journey as a supervisor.
I enjoyed the presentation and insights. It was nice to connect more intimately with participants 1:1...
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!
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!
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.
Very powerful and experiential workshop! We were constantly engaged in experiential learning, even while taking in theory. Awesome!
[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!
Dr. Sabrina was an amazing presenter and I will definitely take another class with her when one is offered.
The presenter [Patricia] conveyed a strong commitment to this very important material through the information she shared as well as appropriate self-disclosure.
Dr. Sabrina did a fabulous job engaging us for 12 hours. I loved the format, her knowledge, and the real-life tips and experiences to help us grow.
Learned so much information [in Ethical Dilemmas in Clinical Practice]. It also confirmed that current practices are ethical as measured with current standards.
She's [Lisa's] such a wonderful teacher AND a seasoned clinician- it's hard to get both in one person!
Denise was well educated, compassionate and experienced in her work with the clients that have endured domestic violence.
Denise was excellent all around. Her use of real case examples to illustrate her narrative allowed her to present a very complex subject.
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!
The facilitator is engaging and inspiring! She is easy to understand and teaches for every learning style!!!!
Susan was in command of her subject but also had a great sense of humor.
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.
Patricia was very engaging and offered a truly interactive experience. She is clearly very knowledgeable on this topic.
[Susan is] Very informative and made the training interesting and interactive.
Lisa is amazing at taking theoretical and evidence-based research and translating it into easy to use, practical interventions and approaches with clients. This training has definitely made me a better trauma-informed clinician.
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!
Being able to bear witness to Dr. Sabrina's wisdom and experiences, as well as the others in the group was most helpful. It was very nourishing to have self-care practices integrated into our time together. I think the training offers a unique approach to supervision that honors the sacredness of the experience beyond documentation and business exchanges.
Perspective changing- trauma informed- life changing!
[Lisa] kept the audience very engaged in the discussion [during Ethical Dilemmas in Clinical Practice].
This training is amazing and provides a thorough foundation to work with clients with trauma. Everything learned helped my growth as a clinician.
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 gained immensely from Lisa's level one trauma training, and I am really looking forward to continue learning from her.
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.
[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.
I appreciated Susan's approachability with asking questions and how well she explained things providing us with stories of what she would share with her own clients.
I appreciated the focus on caring for patient, pacing, and the ethics of the work [in Trauma Informed Assessment and Treatment: Ethical Considerations]. I am interested in other trainings.
This has been the most beneficial training that I have attended. I knew nothing about Lisa Ferentz before registering, but this training has exceeded my expectations and I have encouraged co-workers to participate. I came away with a wealth of information and knowledge and started incorporating what I learned in my sessions. I have also been able to inform family members, school teachers, and partners what to expect from one who has experienced trauma. Can't wait to take Level II!
This training transferred well to an online platform. Lisa did a great job keeping everyone active and keeping the training lively and engaging.
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.
She [Sabrina] was down to earth, knowledgeable, affirming, inspiring and open.
Sabrina was engaging, direct, warm and above all, AUTHENTIC. I could feel her spirit through her tone, use of words and teaching.
This program has completely changed the way I approach therapy and it show in the improvements I am observing in the lives of my clients! Thank you!
The presenter was excellent, easy to understand and knowledgeable.
The training has been incredible. I feel more competent and confident in my work with my clients because of this training and because of Lisa's ability to teach the material in such an effective manner.
Wonderful wonderful thanks able to use many things with clients learning in class.
This course was incredibly impactful on my practice and for my clients. Thank you for being so amazing!
Susan was incredibly engaging and knowledgeable about anxiety and OCD disorders. I normally dislike group activities but these made sense and were fun!
Heidi made me feel safe to ask questions and responded in a concise and understandable manner.
[Sabrina is] Engaging, dynamic, thought provoking and fun!
As always, Lisa's preparation, information, and presentation [for Trauma Informed Assessment and Treatment: Ethical Considerations] was superb. She delivers material and sources in a way that keeps participants interested and engaged. Her ethics workshops are never boring and always informative.
Wow. What better way to learn about healing leadership than by witnessing it and being healed by it throughout the workshop? I feel so much gratitude to Sabrina for modeling what healing leadership looks like, and giving so freely of her wisdom so that we may continue to share with others. I am blown away.
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.
[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.
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.
I appreciated the smaller group size which allowed for excellent group discussion. The presenter was very knowledgeable about the subject and had excellent real world examples to share. Very worthwhile and helpful training!
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.
[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!)
[Therapists as Peacebuilders: Using Your Gifts for Global Impact} was a great workshop. I enjoy learning opportunities that balance between personal growth/awareness as a clinician as well as wider reaching issues. The facilitator [Sabrina] was knowledgeable, experienced, approachable and enjoyable. I felt that it was a nice change of pace to be “learning” on the psycho-spiritual/emotional end of things rather than just the mental. I do feel like this was one of the most valuable CEU's I've taken this season.
This training allowed me to transform the way I work with clients. I feel much more confident and competent in my work thanks to Lisa's help in expanding my knowledge.
Dr. Evans was a wonderful and inspirational education and practitioner. His authenticity created a safe space and allowed for an environment that we could really experience our time with him.
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.
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!!
This training has truly changed my practice in the way I view both the students and my colleagues in my school. I have completely redesigned the school counselor office lighting to create a warmer more welcoming environment. I look at my most difficult students through a different lens, often picturing them as babies in the trauma he must've endured. I am a patient, more attentive and excited to use the myriad of strategies thank you! Thank you! Thank you!
Lisa made a complex topic (inner parts work) easier to understand through her dynamic training. I am excited to implement the modalities learned in my work with clients.
Robyn was a stellar presenter [for Master Class – Case Consultation: Treating Post-Partum Mood Disorders Through a Trauma Lens] and it is the rare workshop when I can say just one day later the material has changed my approach to cases and enhanced the array of techniques. I highly recommend her as a presenter and would certainly attend future workshops with her.
This was a wonderful workshop that engendered a meaningful conversation on spirituality and psychotherapy, and the role of both in post traumatic growth. The facilitators were very engaging and knowledgeable.
I appreciated Susan’s expertise, personal sharing of cases, and her personality.
Lisa did an incredible job of making the training feel as close to an in-person training as possible. I loved the online chat. This certificate was the best investment I have made in my professional career. Thank you!
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!
Susan was personable and good-natured. Combined with her being informed that made the workshop valuable.
Great resource provided by a gifted teacher & clinician.
Vivien was open, accepting, non-judgmental, centered, calm and humble.
I loved the ideas for enriching supervision to encompass holistic well being.
I am walking away from this program feeling more confident in my abilities and role as a clinician, but I've learned so much about myself that will enhance both my personal and professional successes. Thank you, Lisa!
[Trauma Informed Assessment and Treatment: Ethical Considerations] was well paced and delivered in a good conversational manner.
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!
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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