Frequently Asked Questions for Therapist Training

  1. What is the difference between the Dr. Vodder training and other MLD schools?
  2. What are the prerequisites for the therapist training?
  3. How much does the training cost?
  4. How do I register for a class?
  5. Why are the classes divided into sessions?
  6. Can I take all levels at one time?
  7. How many CEU's for this training?
  8. How long has the Dr. Vodder School been training therapists?
  9. Which book or DVD would be the best to purchase if I want to learn more about MLD or CDT?
  10. Will insurance companies reimburse me for my services when I am certified?
  11. How much preparation do I need to come to your classes?

 

  1. What is the difference between the Dr. Vodder training and other MLD schools? [ Top ]
    One of the main differences is the amount of time we invest in your education. We offer the most extensive program available in North America (167 classroom hours if taking all our courses) and from many years of experience, we have found that it is impossible to compress our training into a short course. Our emphasis is on developing excellent hand skills in a positive learning environment with certified instructors. We are the only Vodder School in North America and teach the original Dr. Vodder method of Manual Lymph Drainage. A medical doctor teaches the pathology section of the training in Level III. We teach a full lymphedema care program (Combined Decongestive Therapy) but we also teach much more, e.g. orthopedic applications, treatment of soft tissue injuries, RSD, ulceration and skin conditions for example.

    Another difference is that the Dr. Vodder School and Academy is the only program that teaches the original, unadulterated version of the Vodder technique. Our school aims for excellence in our hands, precision and lightness in our touch. This is why we get much more than just a drainage effect but also relaxation and pain reduction. Developing excellent hand skills requires time and excellent hand skills produce excellent results with our patients.


  2. What are the prerequisites for the therapist training? [ Top ]
    These courses are open to health care professionals as a postgraduate training. For example: PTs and certified PTAs, OTs and certified OTAs, MTs, RNs, MDs, Physician Assistants (certified), Dentists, Acupuncturists and Chiropractors. Massage therapists must have a minimum of 500 hours of training or are nationally certified (NCBTMB) in the USA. Please click acceptable qualifications for full list.

  3. How much does the training cost? [ Top ]
    The organizer will be able to give you information about the exact cost of the course, location and accommodations nearby. Please click on a specific course on the Training Schedule to locate the organizer.

  4. How do I register for a class? [ Top ]
    To register for a class, please contact the organizer indicated on the Training Schedule for the course that you wish to take.

  5. Why are the classes divided into sessions? [ Top ]
    The classes are divided into an online Level I theory module, a 4-day Level I practical course, a 4-day Level II Applied MLD course and a 9-day Level III Lymphedema course.
    Level II is taken after Level I and Level III can be taken after Level I or Level II.
    Some participants prefer to have time between classes to integrate the material learned before proceeding to the next level..

  6. Can I take all the training at one time? [ Top ]
    Yes and there are specific locations where the training can be taken consecutively. On the Training Schedule you will notice an * beside a location where the full four week training is being held.

  7. How many CEU's for this training? [ Top ]
    Normally it is one hour of credit for every hour of course work although this does vary. Various professional bodies for continuing education credit approve the Dr. Vodder School.

  8. How long has the Dr. Vodder School been training therapists? [ Top ]
    This training has been offered by the Dr. Vodder School in Europe since 1971 and is continues to evolve in North America, where the Dr. Vodder School has offered classes since the late 1970s.

  9. Which book or DVD would be the best to purchase if I want to learn more about MLD or CDT? [ Top ]
    The textbooks and DVDs are described in the Products section of the website. The textbook, Dr. Vodder's MLD: A Practical Guide, gives a good introduction and is designed to accompany all levels of our program. Each of our courses have videos enabling you to continue your studies once the course is completed.

  10. Will insurance companies reimburse me for my services when I am certified? [Top ]
    Although many therapists are able to obtain insurance reimbursement for their services, it varies a lot from State to State and Province to Province. This also depends upon your training background and whether insurance companies will reimburse your services as a health care practitioner.

  11. How much preparation do I need to come to your classes? [Top ]
    As a health care practitioner, this course will develop your skills and knowledge. The courses cover all the material you need to know but we do recommend reviewing some basic anatomy and physiology, especially in relation to the lymph vessel system and connective tissue.