Lorneta H. Ferguson

Therapist

Education:

• Master of Social Work, University of Utah
• Bachelor of Science, Utah State University
• Associate of Arts, Utah Valley State College

Professional Work Experience:

• Mental Health Therapist / Domestic Violence Intervention, Reactive Attachment Disorder, Family Institute of Northern Utah
• Parent Educator / Violence Prevention Specialist, Family Center
• Parenting Instructor, Family Support Center
• Counselor / 4-H Instructor, Idaho Youth Ranch
• Foster Parent, Lehi, Utah and St. Anthony, Idaho
• Why Try Instructor, Why Try Organization
• Family Wellness Instructor, Family Wellness Associates
• Strengthening Families Educator Certification, Iowa State University
• Equine Assisted Psychotherapy, EAGALA Organization, Certification  

Specializations:

• Reactive Attachment Disorder in adopted and traumatized children
• Substance Abuse Treatment
• Autism Spectrum Disorders including Asperger’s Syndrome
• Domestic Violence Intervention
• Treatment for disorders relating to shoplifting, stealing, fraud, and other forms of theft
• Equine Assisted Psychotherapy
• Solution Focused, Cognitive/Behavioral, Art, and Play therapeutic approaches

Interests

Children have always been a focal point in my life. I enjoyed being raised in a large family of 10 children. Being 4th in line I had many opportunities of caring for younger siblings. This is where my love for children began. I have worked with children for over thirty years in many different arenas, as a mother, teacher, friend, care giver, counselor, foster parent, and therapist. Working with children and youth is my greatest passion. My husband and I have 5 children and three precious grandchildren. I also enjoy oil painting, reading, spending time with my family, riding horses, camping, hiking, talking, and most of all laughing.

Comments on DRA

My husband, Gary (whom also works at Diamond Ranch Academy as a Vocational Technology Teacher and Equine Specialist), and I researched different youth facilities for over a year to find a place where the youth are treated with respect and have a high success rate. Our search brought us to Diamond Ranch Academy. Not only do they have a successful program, they have a vision to reach higher and become the best youth facility in the world. Each day I see improvements, enthusiasm, team work and a constant progression forward. DRA models the behavior we expect from the youth and we're proud to be a part of a program that strengthens families in a highly positive and structured environment.