Fall 2025 banner with picture of Lisa Ferentz and participants, as well as date and location information.Register Now

Level I Trauma Certificate Program

Fall 2025 • Virtually on Zoom

The Ferentz Institute offers Level I twice yearly:

September-December (Fall Series) and March-June (Spring Series).

Classes will take place this Fall 2025, virtually on Zoom.

Fall 2025 Level I Schedule

Sessions are held from 8:45 AM through 4:15 PM, which includes a 15-minute break during both the morning and afternoon, and a one-hour lunch break from 12 PM to 1 PM.

Click on each date to uncover the course content.

*Tuesday, November 11 will cover: The Pharmacological and Non-Pharmacological Treatment of Anxiety and Depression

**Thursday, December 18 will also include: Ethics, Reporting, Deviations in the Standard Care and Termination (3 Ethics CEUs)

Information on what participants will receive for completing course.

You must participate in all nine classes to receive your final certificate at the end of the semester.

You must also pass a final, open-book multiple-choice exam given to ALL participants the week between the 8th and 9th classes.

Program Cost

The cost for the entire training is $2,540.00, which includes a $50 NON-REFUNDABLE DEPOSIT to secure your spot. A minimum of $50 must be paid upon registration. The balance due will be automatically debited from your credit card in three installments on the following dates:

- Tuesday, August 26, 2025 – $830

- Thursday, October 9, 2025 – $830

- Monday, November 17, 2025 – $830

PLEASE NOTE: If you register after Monday, August 25, 2025, you must make a minimum payment of $880, which is equal to your $50 deposit and the first $830 installment.

Individuals signing up for the training must pay by credit card. The three installment payments will then be automatically debited from your card on the dates listed above. If you intend to use a different credit card for any of the installments, you must contact us prior to the payment date.

DISCOVER EXCLUSIVE SAVINGS: Inquire about our special rates designed for agencies enrolling four or more participants. Plus, we’re proud to honor those who serve in the military with additional reduced rates. Don’t miss out on these special opportunities!

Agencies that register staff may:

- Register as a Group (see instructions on the registration form)

- Pay by credit card or check made payable to The Ferentz Institute

- Pay in full at registration or by the first class or by the three installment dates listed above

For agencies that split the tuition with their staff, the agency is ultimately responsible for all registrant balances not paid in full by the third installment date.

Learning Opportunities

Clinical social workers and other mental health professionals will gain an in-depth understanding of the myriad dynamics related to trauma and its reverberating effect on clients’ cognitions, affect, social functioning, and behavioral choices. The philosophical underpinning of the program is a depathologized, strengths-based approach to the assessment and treatment of adolescent and adult survivors of trauma, abuse, and neglect.

Symptoms will be reframed as inevitable, creative coping strategies that “make sense” when put into the historical context of trauma or a dysfunctional family of origin. Practitioners will learn many creative, effective, and empathic ways to help clients reclaim a sense of healthy empowerment, achieve a much higher level of functioning, and integrate the resources necessary for genuine healing.

Additionally, practitioners will explore issues of counter-transference and vicarious traumatization and will learn how to engage in self-care, enhance boundaries, and work in ways that improve efficacy and reduce professional burnout.

Methodology

Participants will learn on both didactic and experiential levels. PowerPoint slides, handouts, role plays, videotapes, experiential art and writing exercises, Q and A sessions, case presentations, interactive discussions, processing written work, and small group work will all be incorporated into the program, thus accommodating a variety of learning styles.

CEUs, Requirements, and Registration

The certificate program is comprised of 54 Category 1 Continuing Education Units (CEUs). This also includes three credit hours in Ethics, which can be used to meet the mandatory requirement in Ethics training.

This program has been approved by the Board of Social Work Examiners, the Board of Professional Counselors and Therapists, and the Board of Examiners for Psychologists in Maryland. Reciprocal approval is also granted to all mental health professionals in Washington D.C., Virginia, West Virginia, Indiana, Georgia, Massachusetts, Michigan and Texas.

Participants who work in states other than those noted above will receive a Certificate of Attendance unless they can corroborate that their state board will offer reciprocity as well.

Participants must have an MSW, or a comparable clinical degree, or currently be enrolled in graduate school, pursuing a clinical degree. The program is also open to professionals who interface with traumatized clients, including victim advocates, clergy, and police officers.

The Zoom registration link, class instructions, and all handouts will be emailed to participants several days before each class.

Cancelation Policy

Participants who wish to withdraw from the Level I training must notify The Ferentz Institute in writing via email or U.S. Postal Service.

Participants who withdraw from the program prior to the date of an installment payment (see Program Cost) you will not be charged that payment or any subsequent payments.

Installment payments will not be refunded after they are charged to a participant.  If a participant needs to drop out of the program at any time after it begins, he or she can use the payment, or payments, towards future attendance in the Level I or II program and will be guaranteed a seat. The participant will then be obligated to pay any outstanding installment payments not paid during the session from which he or she originally withdrew.

In order to receive the Certificate in Advanced Trauma Treatment:

- ALL participants are required to pass an open book, untimed, multiple-choice exam that is administered online.

- Participants must attend all nine classes on the indicated training dates.

- Level I, Fall 2025, is designed as an in-person training, and attendance at all nine sessions is essential. If you miss a class, you may make it up by watching a recorded session and completing a quiz, earning Category 2 CEUs. Only one class may be made up per semester. Ideally, makeups should be completed before the next class, as each session builds on the previous one. The final deadline for all makeups to receive your certificate is Wednesday, December 24, 2025.

Register Now

What people are saying about Level I:

Samantha Russell
LCSW-C

Lisa is extremely knowledgable, but still approachable. She made the training engaging and enjoyable.

Samantha Russell
LCSW-C

Lisa is extremely knowledgable, but still approachable. She made the training engaging and enjoyable.

Megan Robison
LCSW-C

I appreciate Lisa's realness. She isn't selling anything. She made me feel positive about myself as a therapist.

Rebecca Chandler
LMSW

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!

M. Margaret Higgins
LCSW-C

Already I'm benefiting greatly from Lisa's excellent, thoughtful engagement and presentation based on her decades of work serving trauma survivors field. Her information is both practical and nuanced.

Yasmin Meyers
LCSW-C

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

Shannon Harris
LMSW

Lisa is warm, knowledgeable, dynamic, and engaging. She�s pretty funny too!

Megan Robison
LCSW-C

Lisa has great energy and remains engaging throughout the day. She also provides information in a way that is understandable and relatable.

Jenna Adler
LCSW-C

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

Kristin Morton
LCPC

I really appreciate Lisa�s expertise and humility.

Shyrielane Watson
PHD, LCPC

Lisa is easy to be with, welcoming, and approachable.

Emily Scott
LCSW-C

Lisa was responsive, welcoming and cared for participants. Her vast experience provided for very concrete examples of how the material translates to practice.

Alexa Julius
LCSW-C

Lisa is extremely knowledgeable, funny, kind, and encouraging.

Rebecca Steen
LPC

Lisa shared her wealth of knowledge and experience in an engaging and down to earth way.

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.

Kristin Morton
LCPC

I appreciate Lisa�s perfect balance of expertise, humility and humor. She is caring and careful as a presenter and has honed her years of practice and wisdom into a training that is full of critical and immediately usable information.

Samantha Russell
LCSW-C

Lisa is open, approachable, knowledgeable and warm.

Shyrielane Watson
PHD, LCPC

The presenter.is clear, organized, thoughtful, and sensitive to the needs of the participants.

M. Margaret Higgins
LCSW-C

What I find most helpful is Lisa's ability to provide complicated information with easy to understand examples in a clear manner.

Kristin Morton
LCPC

Lisa has a beautiful blend of expertise in practice, compassion and humility that is enhanced by her skill in teaching what she knows to enhance the abilities of the learner.

Yasmin Meyers
LCSW-C

Lisa is a fantastic presenter. Knowledgeable, charismatic, and friendly!

M. Margaret Higgins
LCSW-C

I'm benefitting greatly from the way Lisa presents information - a strong reasearch-based foundation combined with numerous practical applications. Thank you.

Rebecca Chandler
LMSW

Lisa was an empathic, normalizing, supportive and experienced facilitator.

Megan Robison
LCSW-C

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

M. Margaret Higgins
LCSW-C

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.

Rebecca Chandler
LMSW

Lisa is smart, capable, decisive, caring and is a great example of asserting boundaries and values kindly.

Jenna Adler
LCSW-C

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

Kristin Morton
LCPC

Lisa's offers her expertise in a style that invites the learner into the learning experience in a way that is open and supportive.

M Margaret Higgins
LCSW-C

I was especially appreciative of Lisa�s ability to break down her extensive knowledge and experience into understandable components for clinicians to immediately begin to use.

M. Margaret Higgins
LCSW-C

I appreciated how well all of the extensive information is organized and presented.

Rebecca Chandler
LMSW

The compassion, empathy, knowledge and humor shines through in both Lisa and Dr. Ferentz.

Shyrielane Watson
PHD, LCPC

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

Rochelle Sullivan
LGPC

I am so grateful to have the opportunity to take this course!

Rebecca Chandler
LMSW

She's just wonderful - authentic, experienced and clearly cares a lot about everyone she works with (including us!)

M. Margaret Higgins
LCSW-C

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

Megan Robison
LCSW-C

This ethics workshop was awesome! It allowed for so much time to ask questions and explore concerns that attendees currently had. Lisa made it interesting and engaging.

Rochelle Sullivan
LGPC

Lisa is an expert on this subject. She makes every session interactive and creates a safe environment to learn and grow.

Rebecca Chandler
LMSW

This was a phenomenal training which helped me develop significant personal and professional insights. I left every session feeling energized and excited about sharing new ideas and approaches with clients. Being in a room with Lisa and so many other therapists has been an incredibly normalizing, reassuring and encouraging space. Lisa has been a consistent model of compassion and client-centered care throughout and I can't wait to learn from her again in the future.

M. Margaret Higgin
LCSW-C

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!

Megan Robison
LCSW-C

This training was the best I have attended! Lisa makes the subject matter engaging and accessible. I am so grateful for the knowledge I have gained. As I use the knowledge and modalities in session, I see how much it is benefiting from clients.

Rebecca Chandler
LMSW

Lisa encourages everyone to find their own way of working whilst giving them amazing resources.

Emily Scott
LCSW-C

I walked away with more applicable knowledge in 9 classes than in any formal education setting. I have a framework in which to view many, if not most, of my client's symptoms, and language now to use to express and explore these inevitable manifestations of trauma. I simultaneously was able to begin to put together some of my own story in a coherent and non-pathological manner as to why I was drawn to the field as well as how I can better care for myself and by extension care for my clients.

Kathleen Killeen
LCSW

Wonderful wonderful thanks able to use many things with clients learning in class.

Sara Bounds
LCSW-C

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!

Jenn Ungham
CAC-AD

Trauma 1 Program was beyond beneficial as the core of my patients have been affected by trauma and not only did this program validate what I am already doing but also provided me with a wealth of knowledge to take my sessions to the next level and help my patients process through their trauma in a safe and effective way.

Caitlin Tromiczak
LICSW-C, LCSW-C

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.

Chaim Wolfish
LCPC

This program is an absolute must for any clinician who is serious about providing the best therapeutic care to all clients.

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.

Angel Harp Witherspoon
LCPC

This was the most informative and interactive training that I have ever attended. I would recommend this training to anyone.

Lyndsay Soeder
LCSW-C

This was one of the best trainings I've ever taken and certainly the most informative. Lisa does an excellent job presenting the material in a way that is really interesting and applicable to a wide array of clinical settings. Anyone working in the mental health field should take this training. Most importantly, Lisa really did a wonderful job of making sure that we as clinicians felt taken care of and appreciated. I truly felt like I mattered.

Shelby Mitchem
LCSW-C

This was hands down the best and most useful training I have ever done. In my almost 10 years as a therapist, I have never felt more confident in my clinical skills than I do now. Thank you, Lisa, for your infinite wisdom!

Kara Smith
LCSW-C

This was by far the best training I have attended. I learned that I was actually doing a lot correctly, but also learned a lot of things I could be doing. I look forward to Level II!

Elizabeth Holtz
LCPC

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.

Jennifer Thocher
LGSW

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.

Crystel Britto
LGMFT

This training was invaluable. I was able to use this knowledge and the techniques to help almost every single client I serve.

Claire Bernstein
LICSW, LCSW-C

This training was a very thorough and effective look at trauma treatment. Lisa's intentionality and creativity made this training very valuable. I am leaving with many useful strategies, skills, and language to utilize with my clients. I felt challenged through this program to reflect on my clinical practice!

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.

Allyson Wozniak
LMSW

This training transferred well to an online platform. Lisa did a great job keeping everyone active and keeping the training lively and engaging.

Dawn Gomez
LCSW-C

This training provided so much quality information. All of it was immediately useful with my caseload. This was so beneficial!

Molly Jakubek
LMFT

This training is amazing and provides a thorough foundation to work with clients with trauma. Everything learned helped my growth as a clinician.

Nancy Simard
NCC

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!

Julia Caruana
LCMFT

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!

Linda Beck
LCSW-C

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

Royshonda Boulden
Victim Advocate

This training gave me new insight as an advocate and really put things in a new light.

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.

Karina Aponte
LCPC

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.

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.

Sarah Vayda
LCPC

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.

Rachel Herring
LCPC

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!

Amy Searcey
LCSW-C

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.

Shannon Haley
LCSW-C

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!

Karen Ross Taylor
LCSW-C

This program is an extraordinary interpretation of several therapeutic modalities and an interesting and heartfelt alternative to the manualized, mechanical CEU offerings elsewhere.

Natalie O'Neil
LCPC

This program is an incredibly wise investment for anyone who is interested in becoming more trauma informed. The information is priceless, digestible, comprehensive, and delivered in an engaging way. I cannot endorse Lisa and the Institute enough- it is worth your time to enhance your skills.

Jessica Schuhly
LMSW

This program helped me grow so much, not just as a clinician, but also as an individual.

Tim Sebian-Lander
LCPC

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!

Shanez Jenkins
LCSW-C

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.

Robert Bangert
LICSW

This program has completely transformed my clinical practice. Using the skills and knowledge I gained through this program has benefited my clients, and makes me a more confident, competent clinician. I recommend this program to all of my colleagues!

Jami Margolis
LCPC

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!

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.

Stephanie Trisi
LGSW

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.

Annette Schlossnagle
LCSW-D

This is the stuff I wish we had in college! Lisa is an excellent teacher! Taking this course is something I have dreamed of since I first heard Lisa teach at another training. Every class I went away with immediately applicable teaching and resources. I immediately felt more confident and comfortable in my practice.

Kit MacFarlane

This is the best class I have ever attended (and I have two Master's degrees) and Lisa is the most organized, most compassionate, most detailed oriented and the most aware of the process than I have ever encountered. She is very well grounded and rounded in all her presentations.

Janet Glover Kirkvliet
LCPC

This is an awesome training with all the qualities and more of a very excellent postdoctoral course! Lisa is a wonderful, generous mentor, lecturer, teacher and clinician.

Betsy Nichols
LPC, NCC

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.

Torri Mills
LCSW-C

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!

Susan Goldberg
LMSW

This course was incredibly impactful on my practice and for my clients. Thank you for being so amazing!

Tracy Wallace
LGPC

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!

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.

Janniece Phillips
MED

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.

Judy Cohen
LCSW-C

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.

Carrie Schurtz
LCSW-C

The Trauma Level I course increased both my confidence and competence as a clinician. The online learning format afforded convenience without sacrificing the quality of this dynamic course. The resources and connection with other clinicians through the online format have proven to be incredibly helpful in my day to day practice.

Grace Wright
LMSW

The trauma certificate Level I program led by Lisa is transformational. Lisa's expertise and experience is woven into the curriculum in a way that is engaging and fascinating. This program offers practitioners concrete skills and knowledge that expand clinical work with clients tremendously. Thank you!

Angela Wharton
VAS II

The training was absolutely wonderful! I learned lots of valuable information that I could use both in my daytime job and my non-profit.

Michele Lantz
LCSW-C

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.

Erin Wical
NCC

The program was extremely helpful and has taught me so much about trauma informed care within the mental health field. I would highly recommend this training, it is worth every penny!

Laura Malone
LMSW

The program was incredibly informative. The way Lisa structured and presented the information was great!

Wendy Velazco-Weiss
LCSW-C

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.

Dorothy Adamson Holley
PHD, LCSW-C

The Level I Trauma Certification Program has totally transformed my practice! The conceptual framework and immediately-applicable clinical tools gave me the confidence to work with any client who has experienced trauma. Lisa and her team are phenomenal!

Caroline Hinkley
Victim Advocate

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

Nicholas Harmer
LMSW

The Level 1 training was invaluable to my journey of providing trauma informed therapy and doing deeper work with clients. I recommend new and older clinicians to invest in this program to inform, and to re-spark passion for the very important and sensitive work that we do.

Renee Drehmer
LCPC

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.

Level II details.Register Now

Level II Trauma Certificate Program

Spring 2025 • In-Person

Dates and registration links for the Spring 2026 semester will be posted in November 2025.

The Ferentz Institute offers Level II annually during the spring semester:

Classes take place live and in-person at the Hilton Garden Inn located in Owings Mills, Maryland

- Registration and breakfast are open at 8:15 am (ET).

- Classes are held from 8:45 am (ET) through 4:15 pm (ET).

The training is live and in-person. Class recordings will not be offered in lieu of the in-person class.

A Level II certificate is offered to clinicians who graduate from the Level I Certificate Program in Advanced Trauma Treatment or to clinicians who demonstrate expertise in the field of trauma. The program is a total of nine full-day trainings spread over the four-month semester. Classes emphasize “parts work,” inspired by clinicians including Richard Schwartz and John Bradshaw. The foundation for a more creative approach to treating clients and their “symptoms” are infused with modalities including movement, play, music, art, clay, collage, spirituality, focusing and guided imagery. The final class allows participants to present challenging cases and receive feedback from the entire expressive arts faculty. The program allows practitioners to deepen their understanding of trauma and apply advanced treatment strategies rooted in creative and expressive therapies to their work with clients.

The following classes make up Level II:

Class 1 and 2:

Thursday and Friday, February 27 and 28

Using Parts Work to Overcome Resistance, Calm the Inner Critic, and Help Trauma Survivors Self-Actualize

Day 1 Agenda

Day 2 Agenda

12 CEUs

Presenter: Lisa Ferentz

Class 3 and 4:

Monday and Tuesday, March 17 and 18

Moving Beyond “Healing:” Inviting All of Ourselves into Embodiment

Day 1 Agenda

Day 2 Agenda

12 CEUs

Presenter: Jill Penaloza

Class 5:

Friday, April 4

An Exploration of the Challenges and Benefits of Spirituality for Therapy, the Therapist and the Client

6 CEUs

Presenter: Reverend Ray Chase

Class 6:

Wednesday, April 23

Introducing and Integrating Play to Traumatized Adults

6 CEUs

Presenter: TJ Matton

Class 7:

Thursday, May 8

Clay and Collage With Parts Work

6 CEUs

Presenter: Peggy Kolodny

Class 8:

Friday, May 30

Using Visualization, Focusing and Guided Imagery for the Management of Anxiety, Depression and Flashbacks

6 CEUs

Presenter: Lisa Ferentz

Class 9:

Monday, June 23

Clinical Case Consultation and Integration: Processing Complex Trauma Scenarios in Clinical Practice

3 Ethics CEUs and 3 CEUs

Presenters: The Level II Faculty

Program Cost

The cost for the entire training is $2,450.00, which includes a $50 NON-REFUNDABLE DEPOSIT to secure your spot. A minimum of $50 must be paid upon registration. The balance due will be automatically debited from your credit card in three installments on the following dates:

- Thursday, February 20, 2025 – $800

- Tuesday, March 11, 2025 – $800

- Thursday, May 1, 2025 – $800

PLEASE NOTE: If you register after Tuesday, February 19, 2025, you must make a minimum payment of $850, which is equal to your $50 deposit and the first $800 installment.

Individuals signing up for the training must pay by credit card. The three installment payments will then be automatically debited from your card on the dates listed above. If you intend to use a different credit card for any of the installments, you must contact us prior to the payment date. Groups may pay by credit card or check (made payable to The Ferentz Institute) and may pay in full at registration or by the first class or by the three installment dates listed above.

Level II details for what you receive.

All handouts will be emailed to participants several days before each class and will not be available on site. You are welcome to print them out yourself to bring with you or rely on the projected handouts during class. You are also invited to bring a fully-charged laptop or tablet to use during class if you wish. Outlets for chargers will not be available, so you may want to consider bringing a portable charger with you as well.

Cancelation Policy

Participants who wish to withdraw from the Level II training must notify The Ferentz Institute in writing via email or U.S. Postal Service.

Participants who withdraw from the program prior to the date of an installment payment (see Program Cost) you will not be charged that payment or any subsequent payments.

Installment payments will not be refunded after they are charged to a participant.  If a participant needs to drop out of the program at any time after it begins, he or she can use the payment, or payments, towards future attendance in the Level I or II program and will be guaranteed a seat. The participant will then be obligated to pay any outstanding installment payments not paid during the session from which he or she originally withdrew.

In order to receive the Level II Certificate in Advanced Trauma Treatment:

- Participants must attend all nine classes on the indicated training dates.

- Please note that certificates will only be issued upon completing all nine classes.

This program has been approved by the Board of Social Work Examiners, the Board of Professional Counselors and Therapists, and the Board of Examiners for Psychologists in Maryland. Reciprocal approval is also granted to all mental health professionals in Washington D.C., Virginia, West Virginia, Indiana, Georgia, Massachusetts, Michigan and Texas.

Participants who work in states other than those noted above will receive a Certificate of Attendance unless they can corroborate that their state board will offer reciprocity as well.

Register Now

What people are saying about Level II:

Lisa A. Early
LCPC

Lisa is energetic, fully present and engaged, allowing for in depth impromptu conversations as part of the presentation, which is helpful.

Lisa A. Early
LCPC

Lisa is energetic, fully present and engaged, allowing for in depth impromptu conversations as part of the presentation, which is helpful.

Karen Reed
LICSW, LCSW

Lisa�s knowledge on the subject matter is incredible.

Jennifer Crooks
LCSW-C

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

Brian Edwards
LCPC

I really appreciated Lisa's openness to all feedback and questions.

Cassandra Ekstrom
LCSW-C

She believes what she presents and cares about helping us to be the best therapists we can be.

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.

Karen Reed
LICSW, LCSW

I really appreciated Lisa's abilities to explain concepts.

Adesuwa Osemwegie
LCPC

Lisa has vast and commendable command in the subject area. Awesome!!

Jennifer Crooks
LCSW-C

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

Jennifer Crooks
LCSW-C

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

Lisa A. Early
LCPC

Jill was engaging, enthusiastic, knowledgeable.

David Facenda
LICSW

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

Lori Pasch
LCSW-C

Jill was fabulously engaging, supportive, and protective of the space she created for us.

Lisa A. Early
LCPC

Jill was very enthusiastic and knowledgeable.

Emily Perrin
LMSW

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

Brian Edwards
LCPC

Jill is a wonderful teacher!

Karen Reed
LICSW

Jill is an excellent presenter and she made herself available to advise on case material from the students.

Adesuwa L. Osemwegie
LCPC

Jill is approachable and warm. She's always willing to spend time to discuss privately, and is a wonderful person.

Jennifer Crooks
LCSW-C

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

Cassandra Ekstrom
LCSW-C

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

Jennifer Crooks
LCSW-C

Rev. Chase was knowledgeable and easy to follow. Rev. Chase welcomed questions and discussions throughout the presentation.

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!

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.

Jenniver Crooks
LCSW-C

TJ Matton was knowledgeable and easy to follow in the area of utilizing play in trauma therapy. I liked the balance of slides/learning and utilizing play breaks to get up and move around. The presenter provided great handouts and ideas to take back and use with clients.

David Facenda
LICSW

TJ was relaxed, easy to listen to, and knowledgeable about her topic.

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.

Brian Edwards
LCPC

TJ was very genuine and down to earth.

David Facenda
LICSW

I especially liked Peggy's level of knowledge and her working with the art therapy and the IFS modalities.

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).

Jennifer Crooks
LCSW-C

Lisa teaches relevant and effective interventions and makes learning fun!

Jamie Christy
LCSW-C

Lisa was wonderful - as always. Her ability to retain engagement for 8 hours is a true talent and skill! So much gratitude for her expertise and skills to educate.

Karen Reed
LICSW

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

Brian Edwards
LCPC

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

Jennifer Crooks
LCSW-C

Level II helped deepen my understanding of trauma and parts work. Each class provided an opportunity to learn creative, expressive approaches that clinicians can immediately put into practice. Lisa and her faculty provided a supportive learning environment and I enjoyed the opportunity to collaborate with other clinicians.

Emily Perrin
LMSW

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!

Katie O'Mailey
LGSW

This program [Level II Advanced Treatment in Trauma Certificate] provided more guidance and resources than my graduate school curriculum in terms of clinical competency. What a privilege to witness, reflect on, and explore these new creative trauma-informed modalities with Lisa... Peggy and Dr. Dee. My entire practice has shifted in such an insightful, confident, and organic way and I am extremely grateful! Greatest program I have ever attended from a clinical perspective.

Ann Smith
LCSW-C

This program incorporates all of the contemporary and recent knowledge the field has gained in trauma-informed therapy treatment and gives therapists concrete tools and strategies to use with their clients. Lisa and her faculty provide warmth, support and encouragement all throughout the course.

Elizabeth Cush
LCPC

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!

Lisa Bartlett-Kliever
LCSW-C

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.

Bruce Snyder
Pastoral Crisis Counselor

The Expressive Modalities Program provides a quality connection of didactic information with sensory experience, for a more complete understanding of beneficial client treatment concepts.

Nia Foggy
LPC, LCPC

The classes for level two were extremely informative and helpful to me as a therapist. I always left with tools to use with clients. I became more confident in my ability to counsel with the help of this institute.

Joel Lightfoot
LCSW-C

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

Susan Stork
LCPC

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!

Jennifer Babylon
LMSW

Level II was an enriching experience that provided a strong foundation to and added an immense yet digestible and applicable amount of knowledge in which to feel confident and comfortable in stepping foot into private practice as a new LCSW.

Gabriella King
LGPC

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

Jen Baumgartner
LCSW-C

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.

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.

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.

Wren Skidmore
LCSW-C

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.

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.

Melynda Klausner
LGPC

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

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.