Meet Your Therapist
Kristin Van Dusen, LMT, CMLDT, and Certified in Lymphatic Enhancement Technology
I fell in love with lymphatic therapy several years ago. Working as a licensed massage therapist, lymphatic drainage therapy became a natural path for me to passionately explore. I was introduced to Lymphatic Enhancement Technology (LET) in 2019. This particular form of therapy made a profound impression on me. Clients suffering with pain, serious edema, and chronic inflammation quickly found relief through LET treatments. The effects were often noticed immediately. The excitement I felt in witnessing the numerous health benefits motivated me to open my own practice.
Prior to massage and lymphatic therapy, I worked as a classroom teacher for the Paradise Valley Unified School District. I proudly taught 5th Grade for six years and 1st Grade Self-Contained Gifted for another four years. I absolutely loved the students, but had tired from the growing demands of academic minutia passed down to educators from state and local administrators. It was time for a change. Looking for a "nurturing", healthy, and purposeful path, I discovered massage and soon after, lymphatic drainage therapy. I am happier than I have ever been and feel blessed to have discovered "my calling" - big smile.
Interesting enough, it was in my massage training that I first learned of the Lymphatic System in the human body. It has also been my experience that most of the general population has little to no knowledge of this miraculous system. I find this thrilling - and a tremendous opportunity! Not only am I rewarded with helping people feel better, but I get to once again put on my "teacher shoes" and educate others about this important and complex system.
In 2020, I attended the KLOSE Training Lymphedema Certification School and obtained my Manual Lymphatic Drainage Certification. It was there that I was introduced to the Vodder Method. I strengthened my understanding of lymphatic anatomy and learned how lymph/ interstitial fluid collects in the tissues through capillary pressure. I learned about anastomoses and methods to help redirect fluid to other areas in the body for more effective filtration. Although I continued to see the benefits of LET therapy and its ability to facilitate a timely and highly effective treatment regime, I quickly understood the need for manual drainage applications within the therapeutic session. In addition to properly addressing a compromised lymphatic system, manual techniques add "the human experience", the valuable healing instrument of human touch - which is most special.
Professional development is not only necessary, it's a joy! I am committed to furthering my anatomy study, reading medical publications, and keeping an open mind toward alternative schools of lymphatic therapy. I look forward to incorporating various lymphatic drainage methods so I may better accommodate each client's need. Treatments at Lymphatic Renewal will blend both LET and manual techniques and promise the client a healthy, relaxing experience.
