Meet Your Therapist
Kristin Van Dusen, LMT, CLT, and Certified in Lymphatic Enhancement Technology
I fell in love with lymphatic therapy years ago. Working as a licensed massage therapist, lymphatic drainage became a natural path for me to passionately explore. I was introduced to LET (Lymphatic Enhancement Technology) 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 - and it has been my experience that most people know very little about this miraculous system. I find this so very exciting! Not only am I rewarded with helping people feel better, but I have an opportunity to put my on "teacher shoes" again 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 lymphatic watersheds and creating anastomoses, 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 my 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.
In 2023, I obtained my certification as a lymphedema therapist (CLT) and am now proudly working toward my 2024 goal, completing my LANA (Lymphology Association of North America) endorsement.
Professional development is not only necessary, it's a joy! I am committed to furthering my education and look forward to incorporating various lymphatic methodology to meet the needs of each client. Treatments at Lymphatic Renewal will blend both LET and manual techniques and promise the client a healthy and relaxing experience.
