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.
The lymphatic system is a mystery to most people. It wasn't until my massage training that I first learned of the lymphatic system within the human body. It has been my experience that most people have little to really no knowledge of this miraculous system as well. I find this thrilling! Not only am I rewarded with helping people feel better, but I have an opportunity to put my "teacher shoes" on 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.
