Workshops
Complete Lymphedema Certification- Mesa May 2026
This 135-hour course certifies therapists in the four components of Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT), which include Manual Lymph Drainage, Compression/Bandaging, Skin Care and Exercises. Participants first complete 45 hours of Home Study online, prior to attending the 90-hour live hands-on classroom time.
Lymphedema
Lymphedema is an accumulation of protein-rich fluid in the superficial tissues and is a very common and serious condition worldwide. It has important pathological and clinical consequences for the patient if left untreated.
Secondary lymphedema is often caused by trauma to the lymphatic system, such as surgery, injury, scarring, infection and radiation therapy. Post-mastectomy lymphedema of the upper extremity caused by breast cancer treatment is very common in the United States.
Another cause for lymphedema is malformations of the lymphatic system (primary lymphedema). In such cases the swelling may appear after simple accidents such as sports injuries, which can suddenly overload the lymphatic system.
Course Objective
Each course participant will be trained in the four components of Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT) and the management of lymphedema affecting a variety of peripheral body parts - upper and lower extremities, head and neck, exterior genitalia, truncal swelling, pediatric lymphedema, post-surgical and post-traumatic swelling, lymphedema caused by chronic venous insufficiencies and other pathologies, lipedema and more. Upon completion of this course participants will be able to differentiate between a variety of peripheral edemas and understand the medical indications and contraindications of CDT. Furthermore the therapist will be able to establish a treatment plan for individuals with chronic extremity lymphedema and other conditions and perform the treatment accordingly.
Class Topics
Also included:
- Anatomy, physiology and pathology of the lymphatic system
- Basic and advanced techniques of MLD and CDT
- Treatment of primary and secondary lymphedema as well as related conditions
- Introduction to the treatment of pediatric lymphedema, head/neck and genital lymphedema
- Lymphedema bandaging techniques for upper and lower extremities
- Decongestive exercises for lymphedema patients
- Measuring techniques for edema (volumetric and circumferential)
- Measuring techniques for compression garments (with certification) - JUZO, Solaris
- Home maintenance and self-treatment for lymphedema patients
- Hygienic skin and nail care for lymphedema
- Indications and contraindications for MLD and CDT
- Billing issues for lymphedema therapy
- ACOLS periodically offers advanced and review classes
Course Format
The Academy of Lymphatic Studies pioneered research-based lymphedema training in the United States in the early 90’s, using our traditional program that required students to spend two full weeks in off-site, classroom training. The Academy is now providing a more dynamic, accelerated course format which meticulously blends the optimal mix of online and classroom hours to provide our students with unparalleled quality of instruction.
The Complete Lymphedema Certification Course consists of 135 hours of intermediate-level education. Students will first complete a 45-hour Home Study Program, followed by the 90-hour class for their live lecture and hands-on instruction. The classroom time is taught over 9 consecutive days. It requires only 5 working days and 2 weekends to complete. Participants can also split the course, attending the first 5 days, then returning within 6 months to finish the last 4 days of the course.
Pre-requisites
To attend our Complete Lymphedema Certification Course, as per the Lymphology Association of North America (LANA®) requirements, participants must have the following:
- Current, unrestricted licensure as an RN, OT, COTA, PT, PTA, MD, DO, ATC, DC or Massage Therapists who have completed 500 massage school hours and/or National Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork Certification.
Registration Process
- Select the course date and location of your choice from our Schedule of Courses and register. Students MUST register for the course at least 2 weeks prior to the start of the course to ensure adequate time to complete the Home Study Program prior to attending the 9-day live course.
- Students prepare for the theoretical portion of the program using our Home Study/Online Portal. Our online portal contains 7 learning modules with exams. Students study each module and complete the exam at the end of each module. Students must pass each exam with a grade of 90% or better to proceed to the next module and must have the entire home study completed no later than 2 days before the course begins.
- Additional exams are administered during the 9 days of classroom time. If the student successfully completes the 135 hours of study and passes all of the exams, the student will be a Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT).
Date/Time: May 30th - June 7th 2026 , 8-7pm daily
Location: ASIS/ACOLS Learning Center, 259 W. 1st Avenue Mesa Az. 85210
Tuition: $3,350.00
Payment Info: NOTE: Call ACOLS for the course and alumni discounts BEFORE selecting PayPal (772) 589-3355 Discounts are: 10% for Alumni and anyone who has taken a previous ACOLS course
Prerequisite:
Registration Contact: https://www.acols.com/courses/detail.php?id=2245664000171907355
Continuing Education Credits: 135
To register for this workshop contact the email address listed in the description
Upcoming Workshops
2025:
December:
2026:
January:
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Certification in Manual Lymph Drainage (Vodder Technique) Mesa-January 2026 - Mesa
January 7th - January 11th 2026 , 8am - 5pmPresented by the Academy of Lymphatic Studies - This course will assist therapists in developing treatment sequences for the management of edema of various geneses including post-traumatic and post-surgical edema; as well as several pathologies such as fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, migraines, chronic pain reduction, and others.
CE Hours: 40 Cost $1,250
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Level 1: Thai Massage Essentials Mesa - January 2026 - Mesa
January 17th - January 18th 2026 , 10am-4:30pm, with a lunch break middayEntire class is presented and practiced on a Thai floor mat. A basic introduction to Thai Massage that is suitable for new students.
CE Hours: 12 Cost $360 **There is a service fee for all refunds
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Elevating assessment skills using kinesiology and palpation: Lower Leg Mesa- January 2026 - Mesa
January 17th 2026, 9am-12pmKinesiology is the study of the mechanics of movement. In this class, we will build on participants’ kinesiology knowledge to explore how understanding how our muscles move can enhance our treatment planning and massage sessions. We will review joint movements, muscle attachments, and movements and strategies to palpate these muscles efficiently. We will use these tools to explore how we can incorporate this knowledge into treatment planning, providing our clients an effective massage session. This course is a series of 6, 3-hour classes broken down into different regions of the body. Participants may choose any number of classes in the series to attend in any order.
CE Hours: 3 Cost $60
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Myofascial Restoration: Neck & Upper Back- Mesa- January 2026 - Mesa
January 25th - January 27th 2026 , 10am-6pmThis class will take an in depth look at theories and practice of fascia and myofascial restoration.
CE Hours: 24 Cost: $575 , $475 (Early Bird through January 4th)
February:
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Massage for Injury Rehab: Low Back Lower Cross Syndrome Mesa- February 2026 - Mesa
February 20th 2026, 9am-4pmThis class will take an in depth look at injuries and massage techniques to support recovery of the low back, low cross syndrome
CE Hours: 6 Cost$150
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Working with Eating Disorders as a Bodyworker Mesa - February 2026 - Mesa
February 21st 2026, 10am-2pmThis class will take a look at how eating disorders can affect the body and massage considerations to support clients.
CE Hours: 4 Cost $120 **There is a service fee for all refunds.
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Working with PTSD as a Bodyworker Mesa - February 2026 - Mesa
February 22nd 2026, 10am-2pmThis class will take a look at how stress affects the body and massage considerations to support clients.
CE Hours: 4 Cost $120 **There is a service fee for all refunds.
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Elevating assessment skills using kinesiology and palpation: Arm Mesa-February 2026 - Mesa
February 28th 2026, 9am-12pmKinesiology is the study of the mechanics of movement. In this class, we will build on participants’ kinesiology knowledge to explore how understanding how our muscles move can enhance our treatment planning and massage sessions. We will review joint movements, muscle attachments, and movements and strategies to palpate these muscles efficiently. We will use these tools to explore how we can incorporate this knowledge into treatment planning, providing our clients an effective massage session. This course is a series of 6, 3-hour classes broken down into different regions of the body. Participants may choose any number of classes in the series to attend in any order.
CE Hours: 3 Cost $60
March:
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Bonacci Method of Regenerative Alignment: RegenAlign™ - Introduction- Mesa-March 2026 - Mesa
March 6th - March 7th 2026 , March 6th 2pm-8pm/ March 7th 8am-2pmSpecific Purpose: How to safely and effectively treat severe, acute and chronic, complicated pain and injury; how to differentiate between nerve-origin pain and musculoskeletal-origin pain, as well as identify multiple origins. Big Picture: The utilization of multiple thought processes, sciences and perspectives designed to optimize whole body integration necessary to ignite optimal healing environment for both the patient and physician. Prioritize and preserve safety and effectiveness in manual therapy that can be applied to all levels of massage.
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Advanced MLD - Management of Post Plastic Surgery Procedures Mesa-March 2026 - Mesa
March 20th - March 22nd 2026 , 8am - 5pmPresented by the Academy of Lymphatic Studies - This course will assist therapists in developing treatment sequences and protocols specific to post surgery of Liposuction, Breast Surgeries, Tummy Tucks, and Brazilian Butt Lifts. This will include and discuss the techniques, contraindications, risk factors, and protocols related to these surgeries.
CE Hours: 28 Cost $1,100
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Massage for Injury Rehab: Low Back Lower Cross Syndrome Mesa- March 2026 - Mesa
March 20th 2026, 9am-4pmThis class will take an in depth look at injuries and massage techniques to support recovery of the low back, low cross syndrome
CE Hours: 6 Cost$150
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The Essentials of Massage and Pregnancy Mesa - March 2026 - Mesa
March 21st 2026, 10-4:30PMNot wanting to specialize, but open to the occasional pregnant client? This course provides information for healthy, low-risk clients seeking pregnancy discomfort reduction.
CE Hours: 6 Cost: $180 **There is a fee for all refunds.
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Reiki Level 1 Mesa - March 2026 - Mesa
March 22nd 2026, 10am-4:30pm, with a lunch break middayThis class provides a working knowledge and techniques for Reiki Level I therapy.
CE Hours: 6 Cost $180 **There is a service fee for all refunds.
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Myofascial Restoration: Lower Back & Hips- Mesa- March 2026 - Mesa
March 22nd - March 24th 2026 , 10am-6pmThis class will take an in depth look at theories and practice of fascia and myofascial restoration.
CE Hours: 24 Cost: $575 , $475 (Early Bird through March 1st)
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Elevating assessment skills using kinesiology and palpation: Trunk Mesa-March 2026 - Mesa
March 27th 2026, 9am-12pmKinesiology is the study of the mechanics of movement. In this class, we will build on participants’ kinesiology knowledge to explore how understanding how our muscles move can enhance our treatment planning and massage sessions. We will review joint movements, muscle attachments, and movements and strategies to palpate these muscles efficiently. We will use these tools to explore how we can incorporate this knowledge into treatment planning, providing our clients an effective massage session. This course is a series of 6, 3-hour classes broken down into different regions of the body. Participants may choose any number of classes in the series to attend in any order.
CE Hours: 3 Cost $60
April:
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Massage for Injury Rehab: Low Back Lower Cross Syndrome Mesa- April 2026 - Mesa
April 17th 2026, 9am-4pmThis class will take an in depth look at injuries and massage techniques to support recovery of the low back, low cross syndrome
CE Hours: 6 Cost$150
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Essentials of Cranial-Sacral Mesa - April 2026 - Mesa
April 18th 2026, 10am-4:30pm, with a lunch break middayThis introductory class provides a working knowledge and techniques for Cranial-Sacral therpy.
CE Hours: 6 Cost $180 **There is a service fee for all refunds.
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Cranial-Sacral Part II Mesa- April 2026 - Mesa
April 19th 2026, 10am-4:30pm, with a lunch break middayA continuation of my Essentials of Cranial-Sacral class. A short review and then we will cover additional techniques that involve the following cranial and facial bones: ethmoid bone, zygoma, and the mandible. We will also be doing Cranial-Combos utilizing techniques from both trainings.
CE Hours: 6 Cost $180 *There is a service fee for all refunds.
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Elevating assessment skills using kinesiology and palpation: Shoulder Mesa- April 2026 - Mesa
April 25th 2026, 9am-12pmKinesiology is the study of the mechanics of movement. In this class, we will build on participants’ kinesiology knowledge to explore how understanding how our muscles move can enhance our treatment planning and massage sessions. We will review joint movements, muscle attachments, and movements and strategies to palpate these muscles efficiently. We will use these tools to explore how we can incorporate this knowledge into treatment planning, providing our clients an effective massage session. This course is a series of 6, 3-hour classes broken down into different regions of the body. Participants may choose any number of classes in the series to attend in any order.
CE Hours: 3 Cost $60
May:
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Healing Hands: Protecting Hand Health and Preventing Burnout with Myofascial Release- Mesa May 2026 - Mesa
May 1st 2026, 12pm-4:00pmThis course is designed to help massage therapists address hand fatigue, strain, and fascial burnout. Therapists will learn targeted myofascial techniques to release tension and restore function in the hands and forearms. The course promotes longevity in practice and helps practitioners maintain their own wellness while caring for others.
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Certification in Manual Lymph Drainage (Vodder Technique) Mesa-May 2026 - Mesa
May 2nd - May 6th 2026 , 8am - 5pmPresented by the Academy of Lymphatic Studies - This course will assist therapists in developing treatment sequences for the management of edema of various geneses including post-traumatic and post-surgical edema; as well as several pathologies such as fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, migraines, chronic pain reduction, and others.
CE Hours: 40 Cost $1,250
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Myofascial Restoration: Lower Extremities- Mesa- May 2026 - Mesa
May 10th - May 12th 2026 , 10am-6pmThis class will take an in depth look at theories and practice of fascia and myofascial restoration.
CE Hours: 24 Cost: $575 , $475 (Early Bird through April 19th)
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Elevating assessment skills using kinesiology and palpation: Neck, Head and Face Mesa-May 2026 - Mesa
May 15th 2026, 9am-12pmKinesiology is the study of the mechanics of movement. In this class, we will build on participants’ kinesiology knowledge to explore how understanding how our muscles move can enhance our treatment planning and massage sessions. We will review joint movements, muscle attachments, and movements and strategies to palpate these muscles efficiently. We will use these tools to explore how we can incorporate this knowledge into treatment planning, providing our clients an effective massage session. This course is a series of 6, 3-hour classes broken down into different regions of the body. Participants may choose any number of classes in the series to attend in any order.
CE Hours: 3 Cost $60
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Developmental Psychology and our Chakra System Mesa - May 2026 - Mesa
May 16th - May 17th 2026 , 9:30am-4:30pm, with a lunch break middayIn this transformational class, you will walk away with the understanding of how your Chakra System is an energetic structure in which you can organize your life force.
CE Hours: 13 Cost $390 *There is a service fee for all refunds.
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Complete Lymphedema Certification- Mesa May 2026 - Mesa
May 30th - June 7th 2026 , 8-7pm dailyPresented by the Academy of Lymphatic Studies- This 135-hour course certifies therapists in the four components of Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT), which include Manual Lymph Drainage, Compression/Bandaging, Skin Care and Exercises. Participants first complete 45 hours of Home Study online, prior to attending the 90-hour live hands-on classroom time.
CE Hours: 135 Hours
June:
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Elevating assessment skills using kinesiology and palpation: Hip Mesa- June 2026 - Mesa
June 26th 2026, 9am-12pmKinesiology is the study of the mechanics of movement. In this class, we will build on participants’ kinesiology knowledge to explore how understanding how our muscles move can enhance our treatment planning and massage sessions. We will review joint movements, muscle attachments, and movements and strategies to palpate these muscles efficiently. We will use these tools to explore how we can incorporate this knowledge into treatment planning, providing our clients an effective massage session. This course is a series of 6, 3-hour classes broken down into different regions of the body. Participants may choose any number of classes in the series to attend in any order.
CE Hours: 3 Cost $60
July:
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Elevating assessment skills using kinesiology and palpation: Arm Mesa-July 2026 - Mesa
July 17th 2026, 9am-12pmKinesiology is the study of the mechanics of movement. In this class, we will build on participants’ kinesiology knowledge to explore how understanding how our muscles move can enhance our treatment planning and massage sessions. We will review joint movements, muscle attachments, and movements and strategies to palpate these muscles efficiently. We will use these tools to explore how we can incorporate this knowledge into treatment planning, providing our clients an effective massage session. This course is a series of 6, 3-hour classes broken down into different regions of the body. Participants may choose any number of classes in the series to attend in any order.
CE Hours: 3 Cost $60
August:
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Elevating assessment skills using kinesiology and palpation: Trunk Mesa-August 2026 - Mesa
August 15th 2026, 9am-12pmKinesiology is the study of the mechanics of movement. In this class, we will build on participants’ kinesiology knowledge to explore how understanding how our muscles move can enhance our treatment planning and massage sessions. We will review joint movements, muscle attachments, and movements and strategies to palpate these muscles efficiently. We will use these tools to explore how we can incorporate this knowledge into treatment planning, providing our clients an effective massage session. This course is a series of 6, 3-hour classes broken down into different regions of the body. Participants may choose any number of classes in the series to attend in any order.
CE Hours: 3 Cost $60
September:
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Fundamentals of Myofascia Release Techniques for Knees, Calves, Ankles and Feet- Mesa September 2026 - Mesa
September 4th 2026, 12pm-4:00pmThis class focuses on how to effectively remove pain in the lower legs and feet by combining targeted myofascial release, energetic unwinding, and integrative assessment skills. Therapists will learn how fascial restrictions in the knees, calves, ankles, and arches contribute to gait issues, postural imbalance, chronic strain, and full-body discomfort.
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Massage for Injury Rehab: Low Back Lower Cross Syndrome Mesa- September 2026 - Mesa
September 11th 2026, 9am-4pmThis class will take an in depth look at injuries and massage techniques to support recovery of the low back, low cross syndrome
CE Hours: 6 Cost$150
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Elevating assessment skills using kinesiology and palpation: Shoulder Mesa- September 2026 - Mesa
September 18th 2026, 9am-12pmKinesiology is the study of the mechanics of movement. In this class, we will build on participants’ kinesiology knowledge to explore how understanding how our muscles move can enhance our treatment planning and massage sessions. We will review joint movements, muscle attachments, and movements and strategies to palpate these muscles efficiently. We will use these tools to explore how we can incorporate this knowledge into treatment planning, providing our clients an effective massage session. This course is a series of 6, 3-hour classes broken down into different regions of the body. Participants may choose any number of classes in the series to attend in any order.
CE Hours: 3 Cost $60
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Myofascial Restoration: Shoulder Girdle and Upper Extremities- Flagstaff- September 2026 - Flagstaff
September 18th - September 20th 2026 , 10am-6pmThis class will take an in depth look at theories and practice of fascia and myofascial restoration.
CE Hours: 24 Cost: $575 , $475 (Early Bird through August 28th)
October:
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Elevating assessment skills using kinesiology and palpation: Neck, Head and Face Mesa- October 2026 - Mesa
October 17th 2026, 9am-12pmKinesiology is the study of the mechanics of movement. In this class, we will build on participants’ kinesiology knowledge to explore how understanding how our muscles move can enhance our treatment planning and massage sessions. We will review joint movements, muscle attachments, and movements and strategies to palpate these muscles efficiently. We will use these tools to explore how we can incorporate this knowledge into treatment planning, providing our clients an effective massage session. This course is a series of 6, 3-hour classes broken down into different regions of the body. Participants may choose any number of classes in the series to attend in any order.
CE Hours: 3 Cost $60
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Massage for Injury Rehab: Low Back Lower Cross Syndrome Mesa- October 2026 - Mesa
October 23rd 2026, 9am-4pmThis class will take an in depth look at injuries and massage techniques to support recovery of the low back, low cross syndrome
CE Hours: 6 Cost$150
November:
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Myofascial Restoration: Shoulder Girdle and Upper Extremities- Mesa- November 2026 - Mesa
November 8th - November 10th 2026 , 10am-6pmThis class will take an in depth look at theories and practice of fascia and myofascial restoration.
CE Hours: 24 Cost: $575 , $475 (Early Bird through October 18th)
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Massage for Injury Rehab: Low Back Lower Cross Syndrome Mesa- November 2026 - Mesa
November 13th 2026, 9am-4pmThis class will take an in depth look at injuries and massage techniques to support recovery of the low back, low cross syndrome
CE Hours: 6 Cost$150
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Elevating assessment skills using kinesiology and palpation: Hip Mesa- November 2026 - Mesa
November 20th 2026, 9am-12pmKinesiology is the study of the mechanics of movement. In this class, we will build on participants’ kinesiology knowledge to explore how understanding how our muscles move can enhance our treatment planning and massage sessions. We will review joint movements, muscle attachments, and movements and strategies to palpate these muscles efficiently. We will use these tools to explore how we can incorporate this knowledge into treatment planning, providing our clients an effective massage session. This course is a series of 6, 3-hour classes broken down into different regions of the body. Participants may choose any number of classes in the series to attend in any order.
CE Hours: 3 Cost $60
December:
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Elevating assessment skills using kinesiology and palpation: Lower Leg Mesa- December 2026 - Mesa
December 12th 2026, 9am-12pmKinesiology is the study of the mechanics of movement. In this class, we will build on participants’ kinesiology knowledge to explore how understanding how our muscles move can enhance our treatment planning and massage sessions. We will review joint movements, muscle attachments, and movements and strategies to palpate these muscles efficiently. We will use these tools to explore how we can incorporate this knowledge into treatment planning, providing our clients an effective massage session. This course is a series of 6, 3-hour classes broken down into different regions of the body. Participants may choose any number of classes in the series to attend in any order.
CE Hours: 3 Cost $60