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A group of clinicians sitting in a circle having a discussion.

Our Mission:

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.

Four people attending a workshop for The Ferentz Institute.

Trauma Certificate Programs

Learn how to incorporate effective and creative trauma treatment strategies that promote self-compassion and healing.

Get Started
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Discover our Inspiring Workshops

Earn valuable CEUs through informative and experiential workshops that strengthen your professional skills and enhance your personal growth.

Learn More
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Bring Lisa to You

Discover trainings and keynote addresses that Lisa can offer your professional community at your clinical setting or conference.

Upcoming Classes

Boost your professional knowledge and expand your expertise with our in-person and online trainings.

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April 14, 2026
8:45 AM - 4:15 PM (ET)
Location:
In-Person at The Hilton Garden Inn • Owings Mills, MD
Presenter:
Kevin Scott Ferentz
Presenter:
Lisa Ferentz
LCSW-C, DAPA

In this 6-hour workshop participants will learn about the etiology, epidemiology and diagnostic criteria for all of the affective and anxiety disorders in DSM-5.

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April 17, 2026
12:45 PM - 4:00 PM (ET)
Location:
Virtual Training on Zoom
Presenter:
Presenter:
Lisa Ferentz
LCSW-C, DAPA

In this workshop, participants will look at the Code of Ethics for guidance as it relates to issues of termination, therapist safety, and best practices.

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April 21, 2026
8:45 AM - 4:15 PM (ET)
Location:
Virtual Training on Zoom
Presenter:
Presenter:
Jill Penaloza
LCPAT, ATR-BC, CGP

In this experiential interactive workshop you'll learn and practice easy-to-use tools to support autonomic nervous system regulation and self-mastery.

What people are saying about The Ferentz Institute:

Alysha Warren
LMHC, LPC

Very engaging and creative facilitator.

Debra Zatkin
LCSW-C

Lisa is thorough and committed to making sure that we as clinicians are informed of this significant and life changing news. Her compassion and her faith in us reassures us that we can make a difference.

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.

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!

Ashley Doot
LCSW-C

Heidi brought her strong background in grief work and helped create not only a training but an experience on furthering the depth of my understanding of grief. There were practical exercises and interactive strategies to help engage participants virtually. Highly recommend!

Catherine Tardif-Douglin
LCSW-C

[Navigating the Ethical Challenges of Telemental Health] was so pertinent to some of the current challenges facing psychotherapists Lisa Ferentz is a talented and skilled facilitator who provides information, stimulates discussion, and appropriately draws on participant expertise. all while standing on her head!! No, just kidding, but I look forward to my next workshop with her.

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.

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.

Diane Sancilio
LCSW-C

[Sabrina is] Engaging, dynamic, thought provoking and fun!

Teresa Doniger
LPC

Lisa Ferentz's Level I trauma training program is a gift for the clinician as well as their clients. Trauma informed care, I am learning, invites the therapist to use their whole self - mind, body, soul, spirit, and heart - to accompany clients on their journeys of healing.

Elizabeth G.
LCPC

Overall, I would rate this workshop very highly. I loved the experiential components... I did come away from the workshop with a better understanding of IFS and a number of tools I can use immediately in my practice.

Susan S.

Vivien was open, accepting, non-judgmental, centered, calm and humble.

Danielle Deckard
LCSW-C

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.

Kim M.

Denise is a true expert in issues related to trauma and addiction and has a great way of sharing her knowledge as a presenter.

Kathy Hammel
LCSW-C

I was very impressed with this seminar. The facilitator not only made the seminar enjoyable, but she was extremely knowledgable and shared her experiences. I definitely look forward to attending more seminars.

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.

Blair C.B.
LCSW-C

Healing Leadership...that will be my new tagline as I embark on my journey from school social worker to being a school administrator. This training helped me focus my view on my internal self instead of worrying so much about how others interpret my vision and passion.

Lisa A. Early
LCPC

Jill was engaging, enthusiastic, knowledgeable.

Shannon Maple
LCSW-C

[Susan is] Very positive, warm, and open and made it a safe space for discussion and learning.

Tiffany O'Hara
LCPC

I appreciated the way the presenter [Lisa] didn't just read from the slides but added to them with her own experience and knowledge base. It was clear that she was passionate and knowledgeable of the information.

Katy Kropff
LPC, LCPAT, ATR-BC

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.

Sarah Boone
LCPC

Jonah had a depth of knowledge and understanding of the material and was a clear communicator.

Barbara Robertson
LCPAT, ATR-BC

Clear, meaningful presentation connects well with other approaches that I use, presenter [Arielle Seidler] was excellent in energy, openness, flexibility, good vibes all around…

Sarah Parad Rowen
LCSW

Dr. Papernow's knowledge and understanding of the material is so notable. Knowledge that once shared helps therapists to avoid making the easy mistakes. Knowledge that she can share in a way that was easy to absorb.

Brian Edwards
LCPC

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

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!

Angel Harp Witherspoon
LCPC

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

Kelly Allmon
LCPC

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

David Facenda
LICSW

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

Vanessa Knoll
LCPC

Lisa Ferentz is a captivating and engaging speaker. [In Understanding and Working with Self-Injurious Behavior (SIB)] she provided worksheets and techniques for immediate use. I am looking forward to taking another training from her in the future.

Payton Brandyberry
LMHC

Susan provided a myriad of case examples and experiential learning.

Michele Fleming
LCSW-C

I loved all of it! The real life examples of concepts, breaking into groups and processing an issue, the reminder from Sabrina that I am human and no one expects me to have all of the answers. This felt like sitting with a friend and drinking a dirty chai and feeling the support and nurturing while also gaining knowledge.

Amy Waldron
LCPC

She [Susan] was [a] great [facilitator], very informed on the topic [of Effectively Treating Anxiety and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder].

Kimberly Riopelle
LCSW-C

I loved her energy and enthusiasm. Such a wealth of knowledge and wisdom! One of the best trainings I've been to yet.

Joanna Sonnekalb
LMFT

Dr. Papernow brings the perfect balance of warmth, knowledge, and skill to the topic of stepfamilies. Her care for this population is clearly evident, and she instills the confidence needed to tackle these complex issues with sensitivity and compassion.

Judith Proctor
BA, MSW, LCSW-C, MDiv

Susan was very human and approachable.

Timothy Vail
PSYD

[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.

Ashley Shober
LCSW-C

She is such a genuine and authentic person in her teaching. She makes it easier to be vulnerable and self reflect on the material than I've experienced with other presenters.

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.

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.

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.

Michele Fleming
LCSW-C

Sabrina is a great educator and speaker. She is a real person and keeps it real!

Julie Bivins
LCSW

Susan was very knowledgeable and personable - a good combination!

Symone C.
LCMFT

Enjoyed the energy, enthusiasm, knowledge that Dr. Evans shared about a complex and potentially transformative therapeutic tool. Thanks for offering this to our community.

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!

Ilene Gallner-Toller
LCSW-C

Very powerful and experiential workshop! We were constantly engaged in experiential learning, even while taking in theory. Awesome!

Margie Underwood
MA, LCPC

Timothy is obviously passionate and very knowledgeable about this topic. I appreciated his gentle, supportive, and understanding approach to the workshop attendees, creating a space where I felt safe asking any question.

Tamar Livingstone
LMSW

I gained immensely from Lisa's level one trauma training, and I am really looking forward to continue learning from her.

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.

Melissa Brown
LCPC

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.

Linda Hellman
MSW-C

Janina consistently redefined pathology to befriending and honoring a child’s adaptive strategies, that now might be less useful as an adult.

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.

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 :)

Megan Robison
LCSW-C

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

R. Denise Roberson
LPC

What I liked best is that Susan provided strategies specifically geared to treat OCD treatment with both children and adults.

Amy Mazer
LCSW-C

Denise's material was informative, and she provided relevant examples.

Carmen Cecilia Alvarez Diaz
VAS II

Thank you so much for sharing your experience with us! Amazing training!

Corinne Heiliger
LCPC

Dr. Evans was an engaging storyteller full of practical wisdom and deep knowledge of the content. Really enjoyed this workshop and would seek out this presenter again!

Rosa Kang
LGSW

She was so knowledgeable and insightful. I appreciated her intentionality and ability to weave interventions and art into the training.

Kimberly G.
LCSW-C

I really enjoyed the case examples and breakout groups and her lived experience.

Elizabeth Velazquez
LCSW-C

The entire presentation was incredibly useful. I learned so much! It provided new information and kept my attention the entire time!

Linda S. Shapiro

I appreciated Susan’s expertise, personal sharing of cases, and her personality.

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.

Timothy E.
LCSW, LICSW, LCSW-C

Sabrina lead with her heart throughout the entire training. Powerful experience with tangible take-aways.

Linda Shirley Combs
LPC

Peggy was personable and knowledgeable in teaching her subject; her ethical guidance was gentle yet authoritative, and she was well prepared to help students learn more about multiple forms of art media.

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.

Kimberly P.
LCSW-C

I truly enjoyed Dr. Sabrina and found the information she presented to be helpful...

Timothy Mewmaw
LCPC

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

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.

Karen Ross Taylor
LCSW-C

[Trauma Informed Assessment and Treatment: Ethical Considerations] overall was well organized and useful. I found much of the presentation had a clinical focus and much less emphasis on the ethical considerations and dilemmas we face in practice. Most of us know that it's our ethical responsibility to provide trauma informed care, but how that plays out in group practices and agencies can be very challenging to navigate and effectively advocate.

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.

Mariangela Weiskopf
LCPC

Lisa is always an amazing presenter. She shares her wealth of knowledge in a way that can be carried over into my own practice. It is always a privledge to learn from a true master.

Elizabeth Mohler
LCSW

Great resource provided by a gifted teacher & clinician.

Susan Oliff
LSCW

I liked how passionate she was about IFS, and the energy and care she brought to the workshop.

Paul Timin
LCSW-C

Susan connects with her audience with warmth and humor.

Kristin Morton
LCPC

I really appreciate Lisa�s expertise and humility.

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.

Rachel Schultz
LICSW, LCSW-C

Lisa shared so much incredible wisdom.

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.

Joseph Rollo
LCSW-C

I believe the most positive take away from the workshop was the opportunity to interact with other participants. I do believe the workshop was well-planned and facilitated.

Adesuwa L. Osemwegie
LCPC

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

Ronda (Rosie) Behr
LCSW-C

I learned a lot [in Trauma Informed Collage Methods] and had fun doing it.

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.

Stephanie Barbara Perry
LCSW-C

Susan was in command of her subject but also had a great sense of humor.

Erin Clark
LCSW-C

Fantastic techniques shared that made me excited to get back to work and use with my clients.

Joan H.W.
LGSW

Virtual trainings can be hit or miss if the presenter doesn't hold court, but Dr. Evans was fantastic. I was laughing and engaged the entire day.

Kathy Haerian

[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.

Laura Willard
LCSW-C

Sabrina was very knowledgeable and offered new content in a way that was inspiring and easy to digest.

Michelle Hammer
LCPC, CPC

[Creative Techniques for Managing Traumatic Stress: Grounding, Containment, and Resourcing] was, by far the most effective CEU training I've attended regarding experiential interventions for Trauma. [The presenter] wonderfully balanced between the theory and practice of grounding, containment, and resourcing all the while leading and modelling by example her practical interventions via affording us all the opportunity to experience them. Well worth the time and memorable.

Jennie Strauss
LCSW-C

From the start, I knew a made a great choice in investing my time and emotions in this program. I've learned so many tools and strategies to help my patients cope with their trauma and I've learned a lot about myself and how I can best support and guide my patients.

Marni McGarry
LCSW-C

Sabrina creates an authentic and accessible learning space for everyone.

Michelle Simonds
LCPC, LCADC

Peggy was very knowlegeable, caring, amd approachable.

Yasmin Meyers
LCSW-C

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

Liza Baker
MAAT

[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.

Molly Rhodes
LCSW-C

Sabrina is warm and authentic, and I loved her stories in connection to the topics.

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!

Rebecca Steen
LPC

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

Molly Milgrom
LICSW, LCSW

I loved Aliza’s vibe and groundedness. She clearly knows her stuff!

Mario F.
LCSW-C

I enjoyed the presentation and insights. It was nice to connect more intimately with participants 1:1...

Brian Shird
MS, LBSW

I was moved by the dialogue, and I now have a better understanding of the benefits of balancing spirituality and psycho-therapy. The therapist [Lisa] was awesome and one could get sense as to why she is so sought after. The feedback from the Rabbi [Goldberger] and the Priest [Father Ray] offered for me a unique look into the both perspectives and how each saw how the inclusion of spiritually can help ones clients achieve post recovery.

Dana Lipsky
PsyD

I loved the overview of the couples IFIO. The presenter was approachable, engaging, and made the information easily digestible.

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.