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Boost Your Clinical Expertise with The Ferentz Institute

Expand your professional knowledge and get a free e-book: Trauma-Informed Assessments, by Lisa Ferentz, LCSW-C, DAPA

Please note: This contact form is only for mental health providers. Lisa is unable to provide therapeutic advice to individuals who’ve undergone or are undergoing therapy, as it is professionally unethical for her to give clinical feedback online. If you have any clinical concerns, you are encouraged to speak in person with a mental health professional to get the support you deserve. Thank you for understanding.
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Why Sign Up

Join hundreds of mental health professionals who have enhanced their skills and elevated their practice with The Ferentz Institute’s premier continuing education trainings.

Stay Informed About Upcoming Classes and Events:
Get early updates on our class schedules, including CEU-eligible courses, workshops, and certificate programs.
A Personalized Learning Experience with Exclusive Resources:
Experience a supportive, small-group setting where you're never just a face in the crowd. Access valuable tools like Lisa Ferentz’s blog posts, YouTube videos, and professional guides to enhance your growth.
Your Free E-Book:
Receive “Trauma-Informed Assessments” by Lisa Ferentz as a gift for signing up, with practical tools to elevate your clinical practice.
Be Part of a Connected Community:
Engage with ongoing opportunities to grow professionally, all while enjoying a more personalized approach to learning and development.

Get your FREE E-Book

This essential guide offers mental health professionals practical tools to safely explore the links between clients' current struggles and past trauma, helping you conduct trauma-informed assessments while building trust and pacing treatment effectively.

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Take the Next Step

Discover how The Ferentz Institute can help take your clinical skills to the next level AND Get your FREE “Trauma-Informed Assessments” e-book today.

Bonus Offer

But that’s not all! Once you download your free e-book, you’ll also gain exclusive access to a bonus e-book to deepen your clinical practice!

Get My FREE E-book Now
Take the Next Step
Discover how The Ferentz Institute can help take your clinical skills to the next level AND Get your FREE “Trauma-Informed Assessments” e-book today.

But that’s not all! Once you download your free e-book, you’ll also gain exclusive access to a bonus e-book to deepen your clinical practice!

What people are saying about The Ferentz Institute:

Eileen Stanzione
LCSW-C, PHD

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!

Talecia F.
LCPC

The facilitator is engaging and inspiring! She is easy to understand and teaches for every learning style!!!!

Meghan Edwards
LGPC

Susan was incredibly engaging and knowledgeable about anxiety and OCD disorders. I normally dislike group activities but these made sense and were fun!

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.

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!!

Elyse Greenwald
LCPC

Denise was excellent all around. Her use of real case examples to illustrate her narrative allowed her to present a very complex subject.

Amy Shulkin
PhD

What I most liked about Lisa and her training was the clarity on her opinions/biases, transparency, organization, presentation style, knowledge based on both research and clinical experience.

Erica Vohaska

Perspective changing- trauma informed- life changing!

Amanda Whitlow
LCSW

Sabrina radiates knowledge, love, compassion, and empathy. I love that she shows up as herself and makes others feel more comfortable being themselves.

Emily Perrin
LMSW

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

Ran Zhang
MS, LPC, LCPC

Peggy was knowledgeable and presented the information in a comprehensive manner, and also allowed me to connect with my own experiences during the training. I think that really helped me integrate what I learned from her.

Michele Sterling
LCSW-C

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

Sarah Boone
LCPC

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

Caroline
Coffill, LCSW

The presenters were knowledgeable and provided psycho-education along with experiential activities.

Jannatul Ferdous
LCSW-C

Lisa explains complicated subjects in very simple and interesting ways.

Jessica LeTourneau
LCPC

[Working with Dreams: Tapping into an Inner Wisdom had] great information with experiential exercises. I really enjoyed connecting with the other participants.

Katie Richa
LCPC

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

David Facenda
LICSW

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.

Meghan Braley
LMHC

Not only do I appreciate the material she presents, I also really enjoy her overall presence. I always leave feeling more confident in my skills from the material presented, but also feeling welcomed and safe. I love learning from her.

Meredith Braden
MA, NCC, LGPC

I absolutely loved Level I. Lisa's smart, caring approach conveyed knowledge essential to treating trauma survivors, focusing on their strengths, sharing practical coping skills, and protecting them through the process of therapy. I feel more confident as a young clinician because of this training. It was fun too!

Emily Perrin
LMSW

I would love Father Ray to know that he was an absolute joy. Im sitting here smiling and almost tearful as I write this. From his enthusiasm, smiles, humor to his courages and beautiful empathy and compassion.. he was truly a joy. It was clear that he truly loves what he does and is so beyond skilled at it. The compassion he exudes is truly inspiring. Thank you Father Ray!

Payton Brandyberry
LMHC

Susan provided a myriad of case examples and experiential learning.

Michale Lockman
LCPC

I deeply appreciate the blend of theoretical and practical knowledge that Lisa's Trauma I course afforded me. I strongly recommend this course and the consummate professional who teaches it.

Anne E.
LCSW-C, LICSW

Dr. Sabrina's approach to healing leadership offers inspiration and practical tools to tap into our whole selves - and thereby grow leadership that can join with and nurture the whole selves of those we supervise. Invaluable!

Nia Foggy
LPC

Lisa is like a “therapist mother” that helps other therapist recognize their own strengths and encourages them to continue to do great work. You are guaranteed to take something from her training to use directly in your practice.

Kamilah Smiley
LCSW-C

This program was extraordinary. Lisa is phenomenal. I learned a lot that will help me be a better clinician while normalizing and embracing care for myself.

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.

Jessica Dent
LPC

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!

Anne Bean
LCSW-C

I loved the ideas for enriching supervision to encompass holistic well being.

Amy S.
PHD, Counseling Psychology

Lisa is a vibrant, organized, compassionate speaker who has deepened my understanding and given me the tools I needed to break through with my most challenging trauma and abuse cases.

Jenna Adler
LCSW-C

Lisa would address all questions, gave lots of case examples and was so knowledgeable and kind.

Stephanie Durnford
LCPC

Not only was I able to leave [Creative Techniques for Managing Traumatic Stress: Grounding, Containment, and Resourcing} with skills I could use the next day in session, [the presenter] made the workshop interactive, engaging, and I was able to take concrete items for my own personal self-care toolbox!

Brian Edwards
LCPC

Lisa allowed me to feel open express my ideas and ask questions.

Mariangela Weiskopf
LCPC

The discussions of clinical case analysis in regards to ethics was super beneficial. Lisa shares the wealth of her clinical skills and knowledge in every workshop she teaches.

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.

Jessica Beachley
LMSW

Lisa was real and well informed! Not stuffy and smart, but Sassy and Smart! Thank you!

Cassandra Ekstrom
LCSW-C

Jill is so invested and connected to the work and this is apparent in her teaching.

Laura Block
LCSW-C

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.

Laurey Richmond
LCPC

Janina has a high level of experience and knowledge.

Bethany B.
LGSW

This workshop was unbelievably informative. The facilitator was extremely engaging and presented in a way that could be easily implemented into one's practice.

Renée Myrie
LMSW, LPN

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.

Kristina Worton
LMSW

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!

Janie Howsare
LICSW, CEAP

Lisa is such a great communicator, connecting research and evidence-based practice in a deeply empathic way.

Brian Wesley
Accredited SW, AASW

I especially liked the belief that Heidi has in her mission and her ability to help others participate in our collective life and death journey.

Molly Rhodes
LGSW

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.

Myra Kaplan
PHD

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.

Karen Reed
LICSW, LCSW

Lisa�s knowledge on the subject matter is incredible.

David Facenda
LICSW

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

Elizabeth Berman
CSC-AD

I absolutely loved this training. How to illicit hope, how and when to use spirituality as a vehicle for change and the difficulties and possibilities therein. The training was more of a conversation then a lecture, I am still thinking about this days after the training and have followed up on some reading suggestions that have also been inspiring. Thank you!

Jessie P.
LCSW

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.

Briana Quinlan
LCSW-C

Ken was enthusiastic, engaging, and pretty funny given the content matter. He was conscious of time and his audience as well as very knowledgable about the material he presented.

Leonard Guedalia
PHD

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.

Susan B. Blair
LCMFT, CCDP

This training equipped me with a greater understanding of trauma informed treatment. I feel more confidant in my practice dealing with issues of trauma and more energized to continue to increase my knowledge and efficacy.

Sheila M. Ishii
MSW, LCSW-C

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.

Brittany Bell
LPCMH, NCC

The trainer [Lisa] was very knowledgeable and also engaging.

Kim McCalpin
Psychologist

I loved the trainer!

Shannon Wilson-Murray
LCSW-C

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.

Traci Brautigan
LMSW

I loved the training. Very informative.

Cassandra Ekstrom
LCSW-C

TJ brought us something that adults and therapist working with adults forget about which is the importance of play. The class gave me a lot of aha moments in thinking about my client population. Additionally, the way that TJ embraces the topic with such passion and connection pulled me in and left me wanting more.

Megan Robison
LCSW-C

Lisa has a way to make the information accessible and reducing imposter syndrome.

Seritha Evans
MPA

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.

Cyndi Wagner
LPC, LCPC

I understand ADHD better and how it impacts individuals.

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!!

M. Margaret Higgins
LCSW-C

I greatly appreciate Lisa's approach of comprehensive information backed by research intermingled with concrete, practical application and discussion.

Timothy Elliott
LCSW-C

Sabrina presents her heart and spirit in the training. Genuine and sincere, while grounded in theory and experience.

Patti Renko
LCSW-C

Appreciated the updated information and the direct and comprehensive way it was presented and discussed.

Alexis Bruce
LCSW-C

This was such an enlightening workshop that made me think and apply a unique way to use fairytales to heal clients of trauma. Dr. Preston-Dillon's voice was also so soothing as she used "Thick description" to retell stories/folklore. I can only imagine how therapeutic this technique is for clients as they embrace playing with imaginary back-stories of their favorite fairytale, folklore, or movie and using items/objects to express their feelings.

Sharazad Haimanchandra
LMSW

The discussion on how to use IFS informally in sessions, and the concrete tools for parts mapping was very useful. The presenter had a calm presence and was clearly very knowledgeable on the topic.

Karen Ross Taylor
LCSW-C

Trauma Informed Collage Methods was a very valuable workshop as I have always had a personal affinity for collage activities and love to find ways to incorporate it into my practice. It's also a kinder and less threatening modality for those of us who minimize or deny having artistic abilities. The facilitator Peggy and her assistant Hanna were organized and accommodating. Having minimally structured experiential components to the workshop was a smart choice. I highly recommend :)

Timothy Mewmaw
LCPC

Sabrina is Very focused on connecting the group with each other.

Brian Edwards
LCPC

TJ was very genuine and down to earth.

Kerry McCommons
LCPC

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.

Amy Sherbin
LCPC

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

Laura Ashley
LCSW-C

The Working With Dreams workshop was interesting and informative. Vivienne, our instructor, used experiential exercises to engage our group and illustrate how to use her techniques. I can't wait to try her methods out with my clients.

Jennifer Hart
LCSW-C

[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.

Katja Engel-Hughes
LCPC

Denise is very articulate and personable. She presented a very well organized and informative training. Thank you!

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.

Miriam Blau
LGSW

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.

Stephanie Barbara Perry
LCSW-C

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

Elizabeth Kopta
LMSW

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

Margaret Higgins
LCSW-C

Lisa’s ability to clearly and comprehensively communicate current research on the causal effects of social media on teens, incorporate attachment theory to the discussion and share her own experience with presenting the information is awesome. I will be able to use this information.

Emily Perrin
LMSW

I thought TJ was awesome. I loved her energy. I would have loved to hear / see more of the games / play activates she uses with clients! Everything else was wonderful.

Christen Dressel
LCPC

I feel so much more resourced and capable to work as a trauma informed therapist. This class has given me the confidence and renewed my passion for this work.

Sumi Holman
LCSW-C

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

Linda Beck
LCSW-C

This training has been a priceless investment which I believe will change my practice for many years to come.

Christina Jay
LCPC

Learned so much information [in Ethical Dilemmas in Clinical Practice]. It also confirmed that current practices are ethical as measured with current standards.

Lisa Zimmerman
LICSW

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.

Shannon Maple
LCSW-C

Dr. Papernow was awesome! Used dialogue the whole training that modeled appropriate use of the teachings in our practices.

Monick Conway
LCSW-C

I especially liked the level of knowledge and comprehensiveness of both the workshop and the presenter [Peggy].

Jennifer Crooks
LCSW-C

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

Victoria Stubbs
LICSW, LCSW-C

I truly appreciated her integrated approach, her authenticity and the sharing of personal examples. She [Sabrina] made the virtual space feel welcoming and comfortable.

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.

Emily Perrin
LMSW

Lisa is always incredible - you learn from minute one to the end of the day. She's engaging, funny and breaks down the concepts in such an accessible way.

Jasmine McEwen
LCPC

The presenter of the workshop had a calming energy about her, and genuinely seemed interested in what was being discussed.

Jennifer Crooks
LCSW-C

Peggy presented the material in a way that was easy to understand and learn. She gave clear interventions to utilize with clients (art, collage, clay).

Alexandra Clarysse
RP, MSW, RSW

I always benefit from learning with Lisa. Her experience is invaluable and the compassionate way she teaches concepts have become part of the way I interact and communicate with my own clients. The practical strategies will be invaluable in my work with them

Kelly Allmon
LCPC

Presenter had a great depth of knowledge on grief that will serve my future clients well!

Kath Haerian
LCSW-C

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.

Stephanie Marinelli
PHD, JD, LCPC

There's no way you can leave a class you taught, Lisa, without learning new strategies and examples of how to encourage others.

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.

Salvatore D'Amore
Psychotherapist

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