Dr. Vodder Method of Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD)

Eligibility: AQF Level 5 (NZQA Level 6) or higher, including but not limited to Physiotherapist, OT, RN, Remedial Therapist, naturopath. Read more on course eligibility in our FAQs

The Certificate of Achievement in Applied MLD requires successful completion of

• Level 1, Level 1 Review, and Level 2 courses.

  • New Students: 30 hours online plus 9-days practical training. 102 CPE hours

  • Returning Therapists: 5-day practical training 40 CPE hours

Moving Lymph Course Fees & Inclusions.

• $3820 including GST ($4175 from January 1, 2027) includes:

  • Fundamental Lymphology Program and Tutorial Group (valued at $195)

  • Vodder Graduate Resource Centre (valued at $160)

• Required textbooks and DVSI fees are not included with registration.

Dr Vodder lymphatic drainage courses aim to provide a structured clinical scaffolding that delivers complete professional readiness:

• Anatomical Mastery: Provide participants with a deep, comprehensive understanding of the anatomy, physiology, and pathophysiology of the human lymphatic systems and their complex interactions with loose connective tissue.

• Technique Proficiency: Train practitioners thoroughly in both the fundamental and Special Techniques essential to achieve excellence in MLD application.

• Clinical Framework: Establish a comprehensive framework for the safe and effective use of MLD across diverse body systems, including the nervous, cardiovascular, immune, gastrointestinal, respiratory, and reproductive systems.

• Tailored Treatment Planning: Develop advanced capabilities to formulate customised treatment plans for a broad spectrum of acute and chronic pathological presentations.

• Professional Integration: Equip graduates with the exact clinical reasoning needed to integrate MLD seamlessly into their current allied health operations to optimise client outcomes in a non-oncology setting.

Graduates emerge as recognised leaders in clinical MLD, achieving competencies across multiple advanced domains:

• Historical & Contemporary Mapping: Gain deep insights into the clinical development, historical trajectory, and modern validation of the Dr Vodder method.

• Systemic Lymphatic Expertise: Master the intricate superficial and deep pathways of the lymphatic drainage system.

• Technical Excellence: Develop precise execution of core manual movements, including stationary circles, pumps, scoops, and rotary techniques.

• Advanced "Specials" Adaptation: Acquire the skills to perform deep cavity drainage (including the CNS, abdominal organs, and respiratory tracts) along with pain-free muscle resolution and joint mobilisation.

• Clinical Assessment & Safety: Demonstrate rigorous competence in identifying treatment limitations, navigating contraindications, and executing protocols that account for complex client co-morbidities.

• Treatment Protocols: Apply clinical reasoning to a range of skeletal-muscular, digestive, respiratory, neurological and immune conditions including but not limited to 

The certification presents a comprehensive blend of instructor-guided digital modules and intensive, classroom-based practical training totalling 102 CPE hours:

• Level 1 (required for all Certificates): Consists of 30 hours of online, instructor-guided theoretical study paired with 32 hours of hands-on practical class training. This level maps out the fundamental techniques for an intact lymphatic system.

• Level 1 Review & Level 2 (Certificate in Applied MLD): Consists of 40 hours of intensive, classroom-based training incorporating theoretical and practical components on sequence adaptations, treatment of deep body structures, and pathologically focused "Special Techniques".

• Format Structure: New students undertake a comprehensive 9-day practitioner training, while returning therapists join the Level 1 Review and Level 2 to achieve their Applied MLD Certification.

To maintain the international gold standard of training, candidates must strictly adhere to the professional milestones established by the Dr Vodder Akademie International (DVAI) and Dr Vodder Schools International (DVSI):

• Eligibility: Candidates must verify and upload a qualification meeting minimum AQF Level 5 or NZQF Level 6 requirements (e.g., Diploma of Remedial Massage, Degree in Physiotherapy, Registered Nurse, Occupational Therapist etc).

• Administrative Submissions: Students must directly submit their signed therapist agreement, certificate license fees, and requests for video coupons to DVSI prior to commencing each course component. Moving Lymph serves as an educational agent and does not manage these independent platforms or license fees or have access to your personal data.

• Required Textbook: Participants must independently procure the required text, Dr. Vodder's Manual Lymph Drainage: A Practical Guide by Wittlinger et al., from the official publisher.

• Certificate License Fees and Video Coupons: Video and certificates are presented at the practical courses.  DVAI video coupons are issues at each Level and included in the DVSI fee:

  • DVAI Level 1 Theory Coupon: CAD 160

  • DVAI Level 1 Practical Coupon: CAD 110

  • DVAI Level 2 Practical Coupon: CAD 133

• Performance Mandate: A 70% passing grade on online theoretical exams and 100% attendance during face-to-face practical sessions are mandatory for credentialing. There are no Practical Assessments for Level 1. Level 2 assesses graduates on competence in technique delivery and sequencing.

Enrolling in your manual lymphatic drainage courses through Moving Lymph grants you exclusive access to an integrated ecosystem designed to optimise your academic performance and clinical transition:

• Pre-Course Inclusions: MLO provides step-by-step instruction programs to support you through the self-directed online material, and help you to prepare for and make the most of your practical training, and help you prepare your documentation with DVSI.

• Level 1 Theory Tutorials: The intensive Level 1 Theory Module at DVAI is paired with structured weekly meetings with Dr Jan Douglass. An extensive library of lymphatic and MLD related video assets, and self-directed assignments and quizzes are available to maximise your exam preparation.

• Class Group Communications: Each course location has access to a private course group to facilitate real-time problem-solving with teachers, coordinators, and peers.

• Post-Graduate Resource Centre: Graduates receive a 12-month membership to the Vodder Graduate Resource Centre. There will be a series of four mentoring meetings after the Level 2 so you can check-ins with your instructor, and there are ongoing meetings at least weekly for case study discussions, topics of interest such as how to take better clinical images, and dedicated problem-solving circles to confidently bridge the gap between training and everyday practice.

Eligibility: AQF Level 5 (NZQA Level 6) or higher.

The Certificate of Achievement in Applied MLD requires successful completion of

• Level 1, Level 1 Review, and Level 3 courses.

• New Students: 30 hours online plus 14-days practical training. 142 CPE hours

• Returning Therapists: 10-day practical training 80 CPE hours

Moving Lymph Course Fees & Inclusions.

• NZD 6660 including GST (AUD 6660 from January 1, 2027) includes

  • Fundamental Lymphology Program and Tutorial Group (valued at $195)

  • Vodder Graduate Resource Centre (valued at $160)

  • Full bandaging kit provided by L&R 

Dr Vodder lymphatic drainage courses aim to provide a rigorous, evidence-informed educational architecture to achieve total practitioner readiness in complex lymphedema care:

• Anatomical Scaffolding: Equip participants with an advanced, multi-layered comprehension of the anatomy, physiology, and pathophysiology of the human lymphatic system and its interaction with loose connective tissue.

• Technique Mastery: Provide intensive training in Dr. Vodder’s specialised manipulation of the skin and tissues to achieve effective and safe lymphatic stimulation.

• Pathology Mapping: Establish a clear clinical framework to accurately recognise, differentiate, and treat complex conditions such as primary and secondary lymphoedema, phleboedema, and lipoedema, and to integrate consideration of common co-morbidities.

• Decongestive Protocol Planning: Cultivate advanced capabilities to formulate customised, dynamic treatment strategies spanning both the intensive reduction and maintenance phases of chronic oedema management.

• Clinical Scope Integration: Prepare graduates with the essential clinical reasoning to seamlessly embed MLD and CDT protocols into their existing therapy to enhance clinical outcomes and extend their scope of practice.

Graduates emerge as specialised Lymphoedema Practitioners recognised for their advanced training and education:

• Systemic Lymphology Expertise: Master the pathways of drainage throughout the superficial and deep lymphatic systems, demonstrating clear awareness of historical developments and modern validations.

• Technical Excellence: Achieve absolute precision in executing foundational MLD techniques (stationary circles, pumps, scoops, rotary movements) alongside complex multi-layer compression bandaging protocols.

• Complete Decongestive Competence: Demonstrate advanced clinical capacity in treatment planning, professional garment prescription, and specialised therapeutic skin care.

• Pathological Assessment: Accurately evaluate the pathogenesis of acute and chronic edema, identifying instances of deep lymphatic or venous insufficiency to map appropriate courses of action.

• Risk Mitigation & Safety: Navigate rigorous contraindications, execute phase-specific protocols, and customise interventions safely in the presence of complex patient co-morbidities.

The certification is delivered through a balanced, highly structured curriculum merging independent instructor-guided digital modules with intensive, face-to-face practical instruction totalling142 CPE hours

• Level 1 (Foundational): Combines 30 hours of instructor-guided online theoretical home study with 32 hours of intensive, hands-on classroom practical training focused on an intact lymphatic system.

• Level 3 Theory (Pathology): Comprises 16 hours of specialised theoretical instruction with Professor Piller, covering the complex pathogenesis, assessment, and management of chronic edema.

• Level 3 Practical (Advanced): Consists of 64 hours of intensive, hands-on clinical classroom training under Koby Blanchfield, focusing heavily on primary/secondary lymphoedema, lipoedema, compression therapies, and chronic venous insufficiency.

• Format Structure: New Students complete the 30-hour online program and participate in an intensive 14-day practitioner training, while Returning Therapists attend the 10-day Pathology and Practical training (L1 Review and Level 3).

To maintain the elite international standard of the Dr. Vodder curriculum, candidates must satisfy administrative and academic requirements enforced by the Dr. Vodder Academy International (DVAI) and administered by Dr. Vodder Schools International (DVSI):

• Academic Prerequisites: Enrolling health professionals must verify and upload a qualification meeting a minimum of AQF Level 5 or NZQF Level 6 standards (e.g., Degree in Physiotherapy, Registered Nurse, Occupational Therapist, or Diploma of Remedial Massage).

• Administrative Deadlines: Students must independently submit their signed Therapist Agreements, Certificate license fees and video coupons directly to DVSI before the start of each course component. Moving Lymph acts as an educational agent and cannot access the independent DVAI or DVSI platforms.

• Required Reading: Students must obtain a copy of the required textbook: Dr. Vodder's Manual Lymph Drainage: A Practical Guide. Additional pre-reading for Level 3 is provided with registration.

• Certificate License Fees and Coupons: Paid directly to DVSI before each course component

  • DVAI Level 1 Theory Coupon: CAD 160

  • DVAI Level 1 Practical Coupon: CAD 110

  • DVAI Level 3 Coupon: CAD 250

• Performance Mandate: A minimum grade of 70% on online theoretical exams and 100% attendance during all face-to-face practical training blocks are required to earn the official credential.

• Exams and Assessments: There is a Level 1 theory exam, but no practical assessments. Graduates of Level 3 have demonstrated competence in technique delivery and sequencing.

Enrolling in your manual lymphatic drainage courses through Moving Lymph grants you exclusive access to an integrated ecosystem designed to optimise your academic performance and clinical transition:

• Pre-Course Inclusions: MLO provides step-by-step instruction programs to support you through the self-directed online material, help you to prepare for and make the most of your practical training, and your documentation with DVSI.

• Level 1 Theory Tutorials: The intensive Level 1 Theory Module at DVAI is paired with structured weekly meetings with Dr Jan Douglass. An extensive library of lymphatic and MLD-related video assets, and self-directed assignments and quizzes are available to maximise your exam preparation.

• Class Group Communications: Each course location has access to a private course group to facilitate real-time problem-solving with teachers, coordinators, and peers.

• Post-Graduate Resource Centre: Graduates receive a 12-month membership to the Vodder Graduate Resource Centre. There will be a series of four mentoring meetings after the course so you can check in with your instructor, and there are ongoing meetings at least weekly for case study discussions, topics of interest such as how to take better clinical images, and dedicated problem-solving circles to confidently bridge the gap between training and everyday practice.

Eligibility: AQF Level 4 (NZQA Level 5) or higher.

​

The Certificate of Achievement in MLD & CDT requires successful completion of

• Level 1, Level 1 Review, and Level 3 courses.

• New Students: 30 hours online plus 14-days practical training. 142 CPE hours

• Returning Therapists: 10-day theory and practical training 80 CPE hours

Moving Lymph Course Fees & Inclusions.

• $3820 including GST ($4175 from January 1, 2027) includes

  • Fundamental Lymphology Program and Tutorial Group (valued at $195)

  • Vodder Graduate Resource Centre (valued at $160)

Dr Vodder lymphatic drainage courses aim to provide a structured clinical scaffolding that delivers complete professional readiness in medical aesthetics:

• Skin Health Mastery: Provide participants with a deep, comprehensive understanding of the microscopic layers of the skin and the critical importance of lymphatic drainage in skin health and tissue healing.

• Technique Adaptability: Train practitioners thoroughly in Dr. Vodder's fundamental manual techniques for effective MLD application across the 9 superficial body skin regions.

• Clinical Framework: Establish a clear clinical framework for the safe and effective use of MLD to address reactive, stubborn conditions affecting the skin.

• Post-Cosmetic Recovery: Provide a precise framework to address post-surgical edema safely in healthy individuals following invasive cosmetic or plastic interventions.

• Bespoke Care Planning: Develop advanced capabilities to formulate customised, tailored treatment plans for diverse client presentations.

• Scope Integration: Equip graduates with the skills to integrate MLD seamlessly into their current allied health or beauty operations to optimise client outcomes.

Graduates emerge as recognised leaders in medical aesthetics, achieving competencies across multiple advanced skin-health domains:

• Historical & Contemporary Mapping: Gain an historical and contemporary insight into MLD's development, clinical trajectory, and modern validation.

• Regional Tissue Literacy: Develop a deep understanding of the microscopic structures of the facial skin and map exactly how it differs physiologically from the skin of the body.

• Systemic Lymphatic Mapping: Master a working knowledge of the drainage pathways of both the superficial and deep lymphatic systems across the head, neck, torso, and limbs.

• Advanced Technical Excellence: Develop absolute proficiency in foundational MLD techniques, including stationary circles, pumps, scoops, and rotary movements.

• Pathology & Aesthetics Application: Acquire practical instruction in adapting MLD sequences for skin pathologies of the torso and limbs, including dull skin, wrinkles, eczema, and stretch marks.

• Pain-Free Resolution: Achieve pain-free resolution of inflammation and swelling after invasive cosmetic procedures like body-lift surgeries, liposuction, and fat transfers.

• Safety & Diagnostic Boundaries: Demonstrate rigorous competence in treatment planning following first principles, navigating application limitations, and accounting for client co-morbidities.

The certification presents a comprehensive blend of instructor-guided digital modules and intensive, classroom-based practical training totalling 102 CPE hours:

• Level 1 (required for all Certificates): Consists of 30 hours of online, instructor-guided theoretical study paired with 32 hours of hands-on practical class training. This level maps out the fundamental techniques for an intact lymphatic system.

• Level 1 Review & Advanced Body: Consists of 40 CPE hours total, combining an 8-hour refinement review of fundamental techniques for all 9 body regions (focusing on biomechanics) and 32 hours of intensive, classroom-based practical training adapting techniques for the torso and limbs with pathological adaptation: psoriasis, post-partum stretch marks, skin toning after liposuction, breast augmentation, fat transfers, and body-lift surgeries.

• Format Structure: New Students undertake a comprehensive 9-day practitioner training, while returning therapists join the Level 1 Review and Advanced Body (5-days).

To maintain the international gold standard of training, candidates must strictly adhere to the professional milestones established by the Dr Vodder Akademie International (DVAI) and Dr Vodder Schools International (DVSI):

• Academic Eligibility: Candidates must verify and upload a qualification meeting minimum AQF Level 4 or NZQF Level 5 requirements (e.g., Diploma of Beauty Therapy or Aromatherapy, or a Cert IV in Massage, or higher.

• Administrative Submissions: Students must directly submit their signed therapist agreement, certificate license fees, and requests for video coupons to DVSI prior to commencing each course component. Moving Lymph serves as an educational agent and does not manage these independent platforms or license fees or have access to your personal data.

• Required Materials & Textbooks: Participants must independently procure the required text, Dr. Vodder's Manual Lymph Drainage: A Practical Guide by Wittlinger et al., 2nd Edition

• Certificate License Fees and Video Coupons: Video and certificates are presented at the practical courses.  DVAI video coupons are issues at each Level and included in the DVSI fee:

  • DVAI Level 1 Theory Coupon: CAD 160

  • DVAI Level 1 Practical Coupon: CAD 110

  • DVAI Advanced Body Coupons: CAD 101

• Performance Mandate: A 70% passing grade on online theoretical exams and 100% attendance during face-to-face practical sessions are mandatory for credentialing. There are no Practical Assessments for Level 1. Advanced Body assesses graduates on competence in technique delivery and sequencing.

Enrolling in your manual lymphatic drainage courses through Moving Lymph grants you exclusive access to an integrated ecosystem designed to optimise your academic performance and clinical transition:

• Pre-Course Inclusions: MLO provides step-by-step instruction programs to support you through the self-directed online material, and help you to prepare for and make the most of your practical training, and help you prepare your documentation with DVSI.

• Level 1 Theory Tutorials: The intensive Level 1 Theory Module at DVAI is paired with structured weekly meetings with Dr Jan Douglass. An extensive library of lymphatic and MLD-related video assets, and self-directed assignments and quizzes are available to maximise your exam preparation.

• Class Group Communications: Each course location has access to a private course group to facilitate real-time problem-solving with teachers, coordinators, and peers.

• Post-Graduate Resource Centre: Graduates receive a 12-month membership to the Vodder Graduate Resource Centre. There will be a series of four mentoring meetings after the course so you can check in with your instructor, and there are ongoing meetings at least weekly for case study discussions, topics of interest such as how to take better clinical images, and dedicated problem-solving circles to confidently bridge the gap between training and everyday practice.

Eligibility: AQF Level 4 (NZQA Level 5) or higher.

The Advanced Aesthetician Certificate (Neck & Face) requires successful completion of

• Level 1, and Advanced Neck & Face courses, or Basic Neck & Face and Advanced Neck & Face courses.

• New Students: 30 hours online plus 4.5 - 8.5 days practical training. 50 - 70 CPE hours

• Returning Therapists: 2.5-day practical training 20 CPE hours

Moving Lymph Course Fees & Inclusions.

• Level 1 and Advanced Neck & Face $2915 including GST ($3450from January 1, 2027)
  Basic Neck & Face and Advanced Neck & Face $2090 including GST ($2290 from January 1, 2027)

• Includes

  • Fundamental Lymphology Program and Tutorial Group (valued at $195)

  • Vodder Graduate Resource Centre (valued at $160)

Dr Vodder lymphatic drainage courses aim to provide a structured clinical scaffolding that delivers complete professional readiness in medical aesthetics:

• Skin Health Mastery: Provide participants with a deep, comprehensive understanding of the microscopic layers of the skin and the critical importance of lymphatic drainage in skin health and tissue healing. 

• Regional Technique Proficiency: Train practitioners thoroughly in Dr. Vodder's fundamental manual techniques for effective MLD application across the superficial skin regions of the neck and face. 

• Clinical Framework: Establish a clear clinical framework for the safe and effective use of MLD to address reactive, stubborn conditions affecting the skin. 

• Post-Cosmetic Surgery Recovery: Provide a precise framework to address post-surgical edema safely in healthy individuals following invasive cosmetic or plastic facial interventions. 

• Bespoke Care Planning: Develop advanced capabilities to formulate customised, tailored treatment plans for diverse client presentations.

• Scope Integration: Equip graduates with the exact clinical reasoning needed to integrate MLD seamlessly into their current allied health or beauty operations to optimise client outcomes.

Graduates emerge as recognised leaders in clinical medical aesthetics, achieving competencies across multiple advanced skin-health domains:

• Historical & Contemporary Mapping: Gain historical and contemporary insights into MLD's development, clinical trajectory, and modern validation.

• Regional Tissue Literacy: Develop a deep understanding of the microscopic structures of the facial skin and map exactly how it differs physiologically from the skin of the body.

• Systemic Lymphatic Mapping: Master a working knowledge of the drainage pathways of both the superficial and deep lymphatic systems across the head, neck, torso, and limbs.

• Advanced Technical Excellence: Develop absolute proficiency in foundational MLD techniques, with intensive practical development of specialised manual movements like stationary circles.

• Aesthetics Application & Pathologies: Acquire practical instruction and clinical practice in adapting MLD sequences for specialized skin pathologies, including acne, rosacea, dull skin, and wrinkles.

• Pain-Free Decongestion: Achieve pain-free resolution of localized inflammation and swelling in the context of skin pathologies and invasive cosmetic procedures like plastic or facial sculpting surgeries.

• Safety & Diagnostic Boundaries: Demonstrate rigorous competence in treatment planning following first principles, navigating application limitations, and executing protocols that account for client co-morbidities

The certification presents a comprehensive blend of instructor-guided digital modules and intensive, classroom-based practical training totalling 68 CPE hours (or 4.5 days of face-to-face training for new students):

• Level 1 (Foundational): Consists of 30 hours of online, instructor-guided theoretical home study paired with 32 hours of intensive, hands-on practical training in fundamental techniques and basic applications for an intact lymphatic system.

  Basic Neck & Face: Consists of 30 hours of online, instructor-guided theoretical home study paired with 16 hours of intensive, classroom-based practical training focusing on the fundamental techniques and sequences needed to apply MLD to the neck, face, and scalp.

• Advanced Neck & Face: Consists of 20 hours of intensive, classroom-based clinical training designed to reinforce and develop the refined hand skills necessary to treat delicate facial conditions, promote healing, and minimize scarring after cosmetic procedures.

• Format Structure: New students undertake a comprehensive 4.5-day practitioner training track, while returning therapists looking to update their skills can leverage a streamlined 2.5-day upgrade pathway.

To maintain the international gold standard of training, candidates must strictly adhere to the professional milestones established by the Dr Vodder Akademie International (DVAI) and Dr Vodder Schools International (DVSI):

• Eligibility: Candidates must verify and upload a qualification meeting minimum AQF Level 4 or NZQF Level 5 requirements (e.g., Diploma of Beauty Therapy or Aromatherapy, or a Cert IV in Massage Therapy or higher).

• Administrative Submissions: Students must directly submit their signed therapist agreement, certificate license fees, and requests for video coupons to DVSI prior to commencing each course component. Moving Lymph serves as an educational agent and does not manage these independent platforms or license fees or have access to your personal data.

• Required Materials & Textbooks: Participants must independently procure the required text, Dr. Vodder's Manual Lymph Drainage: A Practical Guide by Wittlinger et al., from the official publisher.

• Certificate License Fees and Video Coupons: Video and certificates are presented at the practical courses.  DVAI video coupons are issues at each Level and included in the DVSI fee:

  • DVAI Level 1 Theory Coupon: CAD 160

  • DVAI Level 1 Practical Coupon: CAD 110

  • DVAI BNF Coupon: CAD 78

  • DVAI Advanced Neck & Face Coupon CAD 101

• Performance Mandate: A 70% passing grade on online theoretical exams and 100% attendance during face-to-face practical sessions are mandatory for credentialing. There are no Practical Assessments for Level 1 or basic neck & Face. Advanced neck & Face assesses graduates on competence in technique delivery and sequencing.

Enrolling in your manual lymphatic drainage courses through Moving Lymph grants you exclusive access to an integrated ecosystem designed to optimise your academic performance and clinical transition:

• Pre-Course Inclusions: MLO provides step-by-step instruction programs to support you through the self-directed online material, and help you to prepare for and make the most of your practical training, and help you prepare your documentation with DVSI.

• Level 1 Theory Tutorials: The intensive Level 1 Theory Module at DVAI is paired with structured weekly meetings with Dr Jan Douglass. An extensive library of lymphatic and MLD related video assets, and self-directed assignments and quizzes are available to maximise your exam preparation.

• Class Group Communications: Each course location has access to a private course group to facilitate real-time problem-solving with teachers, coordinators, and peers.

• Post-Graduate Resource Centre: Graduates receive a 12-month membership to the Vodder Graduate Resource Centre. There will be a series of four mentoring meetings after the course so you can check in with your instructor, and there are ongoing meetings at least weekly for case study discussions, topics of interest such as how to take better clinical images, and dedicated problem-solving circles to confidently bridge the gap between training and everyday practice.

Eligibility: AQF Level 4 (NZQA Level 5) or higher is required for a Level 1 Aesthtcicin Certificate, AQF Level 5 (NZQA Level 6) or higher is required for the health Professional Certificates.

The Level 1 Course inlcudes

• 30 hours online thoery course and exam

• 4-days intensive hands-on instrucution 32 CPE hours

• The next Level 1 must be taken within 12-months to avoid repeating Level 1.

Moving Lymph Course Fees & Inclusions.

• Level 1 $1715 including GST ($1875 from January 1, 2027) Includes

  • Fundamental Lymphology Program and Tutorial Group (valued at $195)

• Required textbooks and DVSI fees are not included with registration.

Dr Vodder lymphatic drainage courses aim to provide a structured clinical scaffolding that delivers complete readiness for the next level of training:

• Anatomical Mastery: Provide participants with a deep, comprehensive understanding of the anatomy, physiology, and pathophysiology of the human lymphatic systems and their complex interactions with loose connective tissue.

• Technique Proficiency: Train practitioners thoroughly in both the fundamental and Special Techniques essential to achieve excellence in MLD application.

Graduates emerge as recognised leaders in clinical medical aesthetics, achieving competencies across multiple advanced skin-health domains:

• Historical & Contemporary Mapping: Gain deep insights into the clinical development, historical trajectory, and modern validation of the Dr Vodder method.

• Systemic Lymphatic Expertise: Master the intricate superficial and deep pathways of the lymphatic drainage system.

• Technical Excellence: Develop precise execution of core manual movements, including stationary circles, pumps, scoops, and rotary techniques.

• Safety Boundaries: Understand application limitations to deliver MLD for healthy individuals.

The Level 1 Theory & Practical delivers a comprehensive blend of instructor-guided digital modules and intensive, classroom-based practical training totalling 62 CPE hours.

• Level 1Theory: 30 hours of online, instructor-guided theoretical home study

• Level 1 Practical: 32 hours of intensive, hands-on practical training in fundamental techniques and basic applications for an intact lymphatic system.

To maintain the international gold standard of training, candidates must strictly adhere to the professional milestones established by the Dr Vodder Akademie International (DVAI) and Dr Vodder Schools International (DVSI):

• Eligibility: Candidates must verify and upload a qualification meeting minimum AQF Level 4 or 5, or NZQF Level 5 or 6 requirements.

• Administrative Submissions: Students must directly submit their signed therapist agreement, certificate license fees, and requests for video coupons to DVSI before commencing each course component. Moving Lymph serves as an educational agent and does not manage these independent platforms or license fees or have access to your personal data.

  • View the Level 1 Therapist Agreement here.​

• Required Materials & Textbooks: Participants must independently procure the required text,

  • Dr. Vodder's Manual Lymph Drainage: A Practical Guide by Wittlinger et al. 2nd ED,

  • Available from several online book sellers; we recommend the PDF, which is available instantly from the publisher.

• Certificate License Fees and Video Coupons: Video and certificates are presented at the practical courses.  DVAI video coupons are issued at each Level and included in the DVSI fee:

  • DVAI Level 1 Theory Coupon: CAD 160

  • DVAI Level 1 Practical Coupon: CAD 110

• Performance Mandate: A 70% passing grade on the Level 1 online theoretical exams and 100% attendance during face-to-face practical sessions are mandatory. There are no Practical Assessments for Level 1.

Enrolling in your manual lymphatic drainage courses through Moving Lymph grants you exclusive access to an integrated ecosystem designed to optimise your academic performance and clinical transition:

• Pre-Course Inclusions: MLO provides step-by-step instruction programs to support you through the self-directed online material, and help you to prepare for and make the most of your practical training, and help you prepare your documentation with DVSI.

• Level 1 Theory Tutorials: The intensive Level 1 Theory Module at DVAI is paired with structured weekly meetings with Dr Jan Douglass. An extensive library of lymphatic and MLD related video assets, and self-directed assignments and quizzes are available to maximise your exam preparation.

• Class Group Communications: Each course location has access to a private course group to facilitate real-time problem-solving with teachers, coordinators, and peers.

• Post-Graduate Resource Centre: Graduates receive a 12-month membership to the Vodder Graduate Resource Centre. There will be a series of four mentoring meetings after the course so you can check in with your instructor, and there are ongoing meetings at least weekly for case study discussions, topics of interest such as how to take better clinical images, and dedicated problem-solving circles to confidently bridge the gap between training and everyday practice.

Eligibility:

Combined Therapist Update: Level 2, Level 3, or Therapy II & III Certificate.

Applied MLD Recertification: Level 2 or Therapy II & III Certificate.

Moving Lymph Course Fees & Inclusions.

• Combined Therapist Update  $1185 including GST ($1275 from January 1, 2027). Includes

  • Fundamental Lymphology Program and Tutorial Group (valued at $195)

• DVSI fees are not included with registration.

The Theraspist review classes are an opportunity to refine your MLD techniques, find out about the latest research and practice trends, share cases, and connect with your fellow Vodder Practitioners.

Apart from some standard technical practice, much of the content is set by the attending Therapists. Once enrolled, you will be asked which specific topics you prefer to cover in your review, making each class uniquely relevant to those present.

Reviews are usually 2 days in the classroom, with another 1/2 on research and case discussion, which may be held either in person or online. There are no assessments at the reviews.

To maintain the international gold standard of training, candidates must strictly adhere to the professional milestones established by the Dr Vodder Akademie International (DVAI) and Dr Vodder Schools International (DVSI). To remain current on the DVSI website please revioew at least every two years in your eligible categories.

• The DVSI Certificate License fees are paid directly to the school:

  • Applied MLD only CAD 28

  • Lymphoedema only CAD 38

  • Both CAD 38

• Read more on Inclusions and Exclusions

Enrolling in your manual lymphatic drainage courses through Moving Lymph grants you exclusive access to an integrated ecosystem designed to optimise your academic performance and clinical transition:

• Pre-Course Inclusions: MLO provides step-by-step instruction programs to support you through the self-directed online material, and help you to prepare for and make the most of your practical training, and help you prepare your documentation with DVSI.

• Level 1 Theory Tutorials: The intensive Level 1 Theory Module at DVAI is paired with structured weekly meetings with Dr Jan Douglass. An extensive library of lymphatic and MLD related video assets, and self-directed assignments and quizzes are available to maximise your exam preparation.

• Class Group Communications: Each course location has access to a private course group to facilitate real-time problem-solving with teachers, coordinators, and peers.

• Post-Graduate Resource Centre: Graduates receive a 12-month membership to the Vodder Graduate Resource Centre. There will be a series of four mentoring meetings after the course so you can check in with your instructor, and there are ongoing meetings at least weekly for case study discussions, topics of interest such as how to take better clinical images, and dedicated problem-solving circles to confidently bridge the gap between training and everyday practice.