Manual Lymphatic Drainage Certification | Online MLD Training — New England Bodywork & Wellness Academy

Manual lymphatic drainage PRACTITIONER CERTIFICATION

Master Evidence-Based MLD Techniques & Build a Thriving Practice

mld PRACTITIONER

Self-Paced Online Training with Competency-Based Certification

Launches February 1, 2026

What Is Manual Lymphatic Drainage and Why Do People Need It?

Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is a gentle, rhythmic technique that stimulates the flow of lymph — the body’s natural detoxification and immune system fluid. Unlike traditional massage, MLD uses light, precise movements to encourage drainage of excess fluid, reduce swelling, and support the body’s natural healing processes. People seek out lymphatic drainage for many reasons, including recovery after cosmetic or orthopedic surgery, management of swelling or lymphedema, reducing inflammation, improving circulation, and enhancing overall wellness. Studies have shown that lymphatic drainage can decrease post-surgical edema, improve comfort, and support faster recovery times, making it one of the most sought-after modalities in both medical and holistic wellness settings.

At the New England Bodywork & Wellness Academy, we teach MLD using the principles of the Vodder Method — the original approach developed by Dr. Emil Vodder in the 1930s. This method emphasizes precise, light-touch techniques and specific directional strokes that have been refined and widely adopted worldwide. By learning the Vodder-based approach, you’ll gain a trusted, evidence-supported foundation in lymphatic drainage that sets you apart in your practice.

A gentle touch with powerful results

Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is a specialized, light-touch method that stimulates the body’s lymphatic system — the foundation of our immune and circulatory health.

Clients, doctors, and surgeons are actively seeking practitioners trained in this technique because MLD helps to:

Reduce swelling, inflammation, and congestion
Speed recovery after surgery
Ease chronic pain and support lymphatic health
Promote relaxation, detoxification, and stress relief

Adding MLD to your practice doesn’t just expand your skills — it makes you the trusted professional clients and medical providers are searching for.

Who This Program Is For

This certification is designed for licensed healthcare providers and bodywork professionals who are legally permitted to provide hands-on care, including:

Licensed Massage Therapists (LMTs)
Physical Therapists (PTs)
Occupational Therapists (OTs)
Chiropractors
Physicians, Nurses, and other licensed practitioners

📌 Please note: This program does not grant new licensure. Always confirm MLD is within your state’s scope of practice before enrolling.

What You’ll Learn: Core Curriculum

MODULE 1: Foundations of the Lymphatic System

Before you can master the technique, you need to understand the system you're working with. In this comprehensive foundation module, you'll explore lymphatic anatomy and physiology, including the vessels, nodes, and pathways that make up this vital system. You'll learn the lymphatic system's role in immunity, detoxification, and circulatory health, and dive into the science behind MLD to understand how and why these gentle techniques produce powerful results. We'll cover contraindications and safety protocols in depth, ensuring you practice responsibly and know when MLD is and isn't appropriate.

By the end of this module, you'll have the essential knowledge needed to work with confidence and clinical precision.

MODULE 2: Core MLD Techniques

This is where the hands-on learning begins. You'll master the fundamental strokes that form the foundation of every MLD session, including the four essential MLD strokes: stationary circles, pump, rotary, and scoop techniques. Through multi-angle video demonstrations, you'll see proper hand placement, pressure, and rhythm from every perspective. Each movement is broken down step-by-step so you can practice with clarity, and we'll cover common mistakes and corrections to refine your technique from the start.

By the end of this module, you'll have the core techniques mastered and ready to build into full treatment protocols.

MODULE 3: Full-Body Protocols

Now it's time to put your techniques into action. This module teaches you how to construct complete, flowing MLD sessions for the entire body. You'll learn the supine protocol for neck, chest, arms, and legs, as well as the prone protocol for back, shoulders, and posterior legs. The abdominal sequence will teach you how to support digestive and lymphatic flow, while the sinus and facial protocols provide targeted relief for congestion and fluid retention. You'll also master session sequencing and timing to structure professional 60–90 minute treatments.

You'll leave this module ready to deliver full-body MLD treatments with precision and confidence.

MODULE 4: Adaptive Applications

Every client is different, and MLD must be adapted to meet individual needs. This module equips you with specialized techniques for diverse populations. You'll learn side-lying and chair-based positions for adapting protocols when clients can't lie flat, and pregnancy modifications that ensure safe, effective MLD throughout all trimesters and postpartum. Post-surgical adaptations will teach you how to work with incisions, drains, and healing tissue, while modifications for elderly and mobility-limited clients ensure comfort and accessibility for all.

You'll gain the flexibility and clinical judgment to serve clients safely across a wide range of conditions and life stages.

MODULE 5: Clinical Practice Protocols

Here's where MLD meets real-world application. You'll learn condition-specific protocols that deliver measurable results. The post-surgical recovery protocols focus on reducing swelling, bruising, and scarring after cosmetic and medical procedures. Inflammation management protocols address chronic inflammation and pain conditions, while chronic care support teaches you to integrate MLD into treatment plans for fibromyalgia, autoimmune conditions, and more. You'll also learn how to offer MLD as a premium wellness and relaxation service, and study clinical case studies that show how practitioners tailor protocols to individual client presentations.

By the end, you'll know exactly how to apply MLD across a spectrum of clinical and wellness settings.

MODULE 6: Clinical Documentation & Case Studies

Professional documentation isn't just paperwork—it's how you track progress, communicate with healthcare providers, protect your practice, and demonstrate the value of your work. This module teaches you to document like a clinical professional.

SOAP Notes for MLD Practice

Comprehensive Case Studies

Professional Communication & Legal Protection

By the end of this module, you'll have complete SOAP note templates, real-world case examples, and professional documentation systems ready to implement immediately.

MODULE 7: Specialized Populations & Advanced Techniques

Expand your expertise with advanced applications and niche populations. You'll learn pediatric MLD with gentle techniques for infants and children with lymphatic challenges, and sports recovery protocols for reducing inflammation and accelerating healing for athletes. Oncology considerations will cover contraindications, precautions, and compassionate care guidelines, while you'll also explore integrating complementary modalities by combining MLD with compression therapy, exercise, and self-care.

This module deepens your skillset and opens doors to specialized practice areas.

MODULE 8: Launching Your MLD Practice

Skills are only half the story—you also need to know how to bring them into the world. This business-focused module gives you the tools to successfully integrate MLD into your practice. You'll learn pricing and packaging strategies to position and price your services for profitability, and how to build referral relationships by connecting with surgeons, physicians, and wellness providers. Marketing templates and messaging provide ready-to-use content to educate and attract clients, while legal and insurance considerations help you protect yourself and your practice. Your 90-day launch roadmap gives you a clear action plan to add MLD to your offerings with confidence.

By the end, you'll have everything you need to turn your new skills into a thriving income stream.

BONUS MODULES INCLUDED

Enhance your learning experience with additional resources covering self-care and practitioner wellness to prevent burnout and protect your own lymphatic health. You'll receive guidance on continuing education pathways showing you where to go next in your MLD journey, along with client education resources including handouts and visuals to support informed consent and home care. Plus, you'll have lifetime access to course updates so your training evolves as the field advances.

ADVANCE YOUR CAREER WITH MANUAL LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE

COMPLETE PROFESSIONAL TRAINING

Learn through a structured self-paced platform guided instruction
Access a practitioner handbook covering theory, protocols, and client care
Practice with step-by-step exercises designed to build muscle memory and precision
Join a private learning community to share case studies and exchange support
Enjoy lifetime access to all modules, resources, and future updates at no extra cost
DIVERSIFY YOUR INCOME

Develop specialized post-surgical care packages that attract physician referrals
Add lymphatic detox and wellness sessions to your existing practice menu
Increase your hourly rate by offering a premium, in-demand service
Collaborate with spas, wellness clinics, and medical offices for steady client flow
Create multi-session recovery programs tailored for athletes, pregnancy, or chronic care
MAKE A DIFFERENCE FOR MORE PEOPLE

Surgical clients – accelerate healing, reduce swelling, and improve comfort
Wellness seekers – support immune health, circulation, and stress reduction
Athletes – aid recovery, minimize inflammation, and optimize performance
Chronic care clients – lymphedema, autoimmune conditions, sinus congestion
Pregnant & postpartum clients – gentle protocols for swelling and fluid retention
Senior Populations – improve mobility, ease discomfort, and enhance well-being
GROW YOUR PROFESSIONAL REACH

Build referral networks with doctors and surgeons who value skilled MLD practitioners
Position yourself as a specialist in lymphatic health in your community
Explore opportunities in recovery clinics, wellness centers, and integrative care practices
Continue learning with advanced MLD techniques and complementary modalities
Stand out in your field by adding a high-demand specialty that sets you apart from other providers

Who You’ll Be Able to Serve

Expand your reach, increase your referrals

Graduates of this program are prepared to confidently serve:

Post-Surgical Patients — cosmetic, orthopedic, reconstructive

Wellness Clients — detox, immune boost, stress relief

Chronic Care Populations — lymphedema, inflammation, sinus issues

Pregnant & Postpartum Clients — safe, gentle adaptations for swelling and comfort

WHAT GRADUATES SAY

"The progression from foundational anatomy to full-body protocols was perfectly structured. I especially appreciated the clinical documentation module—learning proper SOAP notes and seeing real case studies gave me the confidence to integrate MLD into my practice immediately. This course is comprehensive in the best way."

- Maria, Licensed Massage Therapist

"I love Miss Gigi's personality and professionalism—it made me feel comfortable immediately. Her approachable teaching style creates the perfect learning environment."
- Cassie, Licensed Massage Therapist

"What sets this certification apart is how thoroughly it covers both technique and business application. The adaptive protocols for pregnancy and post-surgical clients have already become some of my most requested services. Miss Gigi's teaching made complex concepts feel achievable."

- David, Physical Therapist

"I have thoroughly enjoyed Miss Gigi's MLD class. Her deep knowledge of manual lymphatic drainage, combined with her side notes and real-world stories, were priceless and helped tie everything together beautifully. I cannot wait to take another course with her."

- Paige, Licensed Massage Therapist & Esthetician

"This MLD certification course is wonderful. As a massage therapist, I'm so glad I attended this training—Miss Gigi makes complex techniques easy to understand. I genuinely enjoyed every moment of my training and now feel confident and excited to start offering MLD services to my clients."
- Joy, Licensed Massage Therapist

"I've taken other MLD courses before, but none were this complete. The demonstrations were game-changing. The bonus materials on building referral relationships with surgeons have already resulted in three new client partnerships. This course pays for itself quickly."
- Rebecca, Esthetician & Wellness Practitioner

Certification Requirements

Graduate with confidence, credibility, and verified skill

We don’t believe in “paper-only” certifications. This program is designed to ensure you not only learn the material but can apply it with confidence.

Benefits of this program:

Rewatch techniques anytime with lifetime video access
Printable diagrams, intake forms, and practice logs included
Business tools to price and promote your new service
Feedback from your instructor to ensure competency
Private peer and alumni community

Certification Requirements:

Complete All Modules & Quizzes – gain deep understanding and practical skills step by step
Must have internet access and computer access
Document 10 Practice Sessions – build confidence through hands-on application
Submit 4 Video Demonstrations – receive personalized instructor feedback on your technique
Pass a Final Exam (80% to Pass) – validate your knowledge and skills, with unlimited retakes available

When you complete these requirements, you’ll graduate as a Certified Manual Lymphatic Drainage Practitioner — with verified skills, confidence in your hands, and a certification you can proudly present to clients, colleagues, and referral partners.

EARLY BIRD PRICE!

Pay in Full: $500 USD

(Normally $1000)

BUY NOW!

Previous Graduate? Get Your Alumni Discount

If you're a graduate of our in-person 5-day MLD certification program, you're eligible for special alumni pricing on this online course. This is a perfect opportunity to refresh your skills, access updated content, and have a permanent reference library at your fingertips. To receive your exclusive discount, email us at hello@nebwacademy.com with your name and course completion date. We'll verify your enrollment and send your personalized discount code.

Online vs. In-Person Training

Same trusted program, now more flexible

We know the value of hands-on, in-person learning — and we’ll always continue to offer our live MLD intensives.

But we also know some practitioners need flexibility. This online program allows you to:

Learn at your own pace, from anywhere

Rewatch demonstrations as often as you need

Save travel costs and time away from work

Still receive instructor feedback on your practice

Prefer in-person training? Visit our In-Person Training Page for upcoming workshops.

Meet Your Instructor

Guidance from an experienced educator

Founder & Lead Educator, New England Bodywork & Wellness Academy

Gloria “Miss Gigi” Young

Gloria Young brings years of experience training healthcare professionals in evidence-based holistic modalities. What sets her apart isn't just her expertise—it's her gift for making sophisticated techniques clear, accessible, and immediately practical.

Students consistently say:

"She teaches confidence, not just technique"
"Gloria makes complex concepts simple and doable"
"Best teacher I've had in 15 years of continuing education"

Why Gloria created this program:

After teaching MLD in person, Gloria heard the same requests repeatedly: "I can't take time off work to travel," "I need flexibility with my schedule," "I learn better when I can review content multiple times."

This certification delivers comprehensive, evidence-based MLD training—with the flexibility, depth, and business implementation modern practitioners need.

Professional Background:

20+ years as holistic therapist and educator
Trained hundreds of LMTs, PTs, OTs, and healthcare professionals
Founder, New England Bodywork & Wellness Academy
Creator of multiple evidence-based practitioner certifications

Teaching Philosophy: Train practitioners who are competent, confident, and successful. That means: understanding lymphatic anatomy deeply, mastering hands-on technique through verified practice, and knowing exactly how to market your services and attract clients. Technical skill + business implementation = thriving practice.

FAQ’s

Yes. Our video demos, unlimited replay, and personalized video feedback make this program effective and competency-driven.
Yes. MLD is one of the most referred services post-surgery. Graduates report steady referrals from physicians once they integrate this skill.
No. We start from foundations and build step by step.
Lifetime access, with free updates.
We continue to offer live intensives. This online program is simply a flexible alternative.
This certification is designed as an advanced training program for professionals who are already licensed to provide hands-on care. Completing the course does not grant you a new license. Instead, it equips you with specialized skills to integrate Manual Lymphatic Drainage into your existing scope of practice.
It’s your responsibility to verify with your state or country’s regulatory board whether MLD is permitted under your current license. Many massage therapists, physical therapists, occupational therapists, chiropractors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals find that MLD fits seamlessly within their approved modalities.

Ready to Begin?

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