Courses

Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD) Certification

Basic & Advanced, Vodder Technique

This engaging 5½ day MLD Certification course is based on the techniques developed by Dr. Emil Vodder, Ph.D., MT. When skillfully applied, this therapeutic form of soft-tissue mobilization dramatically enhances lymph formation and promotes drainage within the superficial and deep systems of the lymph vascular network. MLD effectively reduces traumatic and post-surgical edema, and can provide symptomatic relief of migraine headaches, fibromyalgia, rheumatoid arthritis, scleroderma, reflex sympathetic dystrophy (RSD), stress, fatigue, and more. MLD also induces general relaxation and detoxification.

During this course, students will be instructed in the anatomy and physiology of the lymphatic system and basic MLD treatment sequences will be demonstrated and practiced. In addition, MLD treatment sequences for mild, medically-uncomplicated upper and lower extremity lymphedema will be taught. Each day will be divided into two sections: theoretical and hands-on application.

Duration

5½ days

CEU Hours

45

Method
  • In-Person
Level
  • Advanced
  • /
  • Introductory
Tuition

$1550

Downloads
  • Student Agreement (PDF)

The Klose Training MLD course moves at an intensive pace and covers anatomy, physiology, and hands-on techniques in depth. Please be ready to engage fully, study between sessions, and practice regularly. This preparation will help you get the most out of the course and feel confident applying your skills in both clinical and wellness settings. Because the content is more in-depth than many massage therapy continuing education courses, it’s a rewarding challenge that asks for your full commitment.

After successful completion of the MLD certification class, students will receive their MLD certification from Klose Training. Students will be able to use “Certified Manual Lymph Drainage Therapist (CMLDT)“ as one of their professional credentials.

This course is designed for actively Licensed/Registered Massage Therapists who have 500 hours of massage education or are certified through the NCBTMB. PTs, PTAs, OTs, COTAs, ATCs, and RNs may also take this course but should first consult with Klose Training to ensure it is appropriate for their needs.

Upon completion of the class, the therapist will be able to:

  • Identify basic elements of the anatomy of the lymphatic system and recognize the associated scientific terminology
  • Differentiate between the normal and diseased states of the lymphatic system (physiology and pathophysiology of the lymphatic system)
  • Identify indications and contraindications related to the use of MLD
  • Competently perform the techniques of MLD for all body areas.
  • Devise appropriate MLD sequences for indications such as post-surgical edema, post-traumatic edema, fibromyalgia, general detoxification and other conditions
  • Competently perform MLD sequences appropriate for clients who have undergone breast surgery for cancer (clients who are at risk of developing lymphedema)
  • Competently perform MLD sequences appropriate for clients with mild, medically-uncomplicated primary or secondary lymphedema

A total of 45 hours of instruction over a 6-day period are provided in this MLD Course. Usual class hours are: 8:00am-5:00pm the first five days and 8:00am-2:00pm on the last day. Exact class times will be provided with your registration confirmation.

This course is designed for actively Licensed/Registered Massage Therapists who have 500 hours of massage education or are certified through the NCBTMB. PTs, PTAs, OTs, COTAs, ATCs, and RNs may also take this course but should first consult with Klose Training to ensure it is appropriate for their needs.

NOTE: It is the responsibility of all health professionals to ensure that they work within the limits of their license.

All classes are held in accessible hotels or medical facilities. In addition, Klose Training is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to individual students who have a disability. Students should call Klose Training directly (303-245-0333) at least three weeks before the start of their class to discuss their needs.

The total cost of the course is $1,550.00. Payment options vary depending on the host facility; some may offer payment plans, though the tuition must be paid in full before the start of the course. Contact the host facility directly for details; their contact information is listed at the bottom of this page under “Upcoming Schedule.” For Klose Training’s refund and cancellation policy, please refer to the Student Agreement below.

Registration varies by course location; it is either through the host facility, the instructor, or Klose Training. The applicable contact information is listed under “Upcoming Schedule” at the bottom of this page. Registration will be accepted up to the start of the class.

By registering for this class, you are agreeing to the terms of the following Student Agreement which you’ll be asked to sign and submit on the first day of the class.

This course totals 45 contact hours and has been approved for CEUs for Physical, Occupational, and Massage Therapists by the organizations and states listed here.

In order to successfully pass this course, students must not be absent for any portion of the course, must pass a multiple-choice exam with a score of 80% or better, and demonstrate proficiency in the techniques learned in the class as determined by the instructor.

Klose Training is an AOTA Approved Provider of professional development. PD activity approval ID# 13002. This live activity is offered at 4.5 CEUs, advanced, OT Service Delivery, Foundational Knowledge. AOTA does not endorse specific course content, products, or clinical procedures.

Directions and suggested accommodations for your class location will be provided with your confirmation email. Course location details can also be accessed from the Klose Training Schedule Page by clicking on the location name.

You may also contact our office at 303-245-0333 or email us at mld@klosetraining.com.

Upcoming Schedule

Location
date
  • Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

    Jun 1, 2026 – Jun 6, 2026
    Class is full. Email emaranjian@gmail.com to join waitlist!
    Register Details
  • Shrewsbury, New Jersey

    Jun 8, 2026 – Jun 13, 2026
    Register Details
  • Missoula, Montana

    Jun 19, 2026 – Jun 24, 2026
    Class is full. Email admin@nicolamcgill.com to join waitlist!
    Register Details
  • Seattle, Washington

    Jun 27, 2026 – Jul 2, 2026
    Class is full. Email admin@nicolamcgill.com to join waitlist!
    Register Details
  • San Diego, California

    Aug 17, 2026 – Aug 22, 2026
    Class is full. Email admin@nicolamcgill.com to join waitlist!
    Register Details
  • Louisville, Kentucky

    Sep 8, 2026 – Sep 13, 2026
    Register Details
  • Mequon, Wisconsin

    Sep 14, 2026 – Sep 19, 2026
    Register Details
  • Boulder (Lafayette), Colorado

    Sep 28, 2026 – Oct 3, 2026
    Register Details
  • Kansas City, Missouri

    Oct 5, 2026 – Oct 10, 2026
    Register Details
  • Beaverton, Oregon

    Oct 12, 2026 – Oct 17, 2026
    Register Details
  • Austin, Texas

    Oct 30, 2026 – Nov 1, 2026

    and November 6 – 8, 2026

    1 class over 2 weekends!
    Register Details
  • Waldoboro, Maine

    Nov 2, 2026 – Nov 7, 2026
    Register Details
  • Jacksonville, Florida

    Jan 29, 2027 – Feb 3, 2027
    Register Details

We’re here to answer your questions!

Please call us at 303-245-0333 or email mld@klosetraining.com