Head & Neck Lymphedema Evaluation, Management & Treatment
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A 24-hour course for clinicians: 4 hours of virtual learning followed by 20 hours of in-person instruction and hands-on practice.
Learn to evaluate head and neck lymphedema, select treatment pathways, and adapt care to each patient’s presentation following cancer treatment.
Is This Course Right for You?
This course is designed for clinicians who evaluate or treat people with head and neck cancer and want practical training in head and neck lymphedema management. It connects assessment findings to treatment decisions through instruction, demonstration, case discussion, and supervised practice.
Eligible Professions
- Speech-language pathologists with a focus on patients with head & neck cancer
- Physical Therapist CLT
- Physical Therapy Assistant CLT
- Occupational Therapist CLT
- Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant CLT
- Massage Therapist LMT/CLT
- Nurses CLT
- Present Proof of Certification at Registration of CLT to [email protected]
- Physicians are welcomeÂ
Move From Assessment to a Treatment Plan
We aim to provide our learners with the opportunity to learn a multitude of skills that they can use to assist their patients in their rehabilitation journey.Â
Evaluate & Stage
Recognize swelling, tissue changes, and factors that affect treatment planning.
Select Drainage Pathways
Choose anterior, posterior, facial, neck, or intraoral approaches based on presentation.
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Practice Manual Techniques
Develop hands-on skills with feedback from instructors.
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Use Compression ThoughtfullyÂ
Consider location, tissue quality, skin condition, timing, and tolerance.
Address Related Restrictions
Integrate scar management, taping, and movement strategies when appropriate.
Plan Ongoing Care
Adapt across active treatment, recovery, and survivorship, including a realistic home program.
Continuing Education and What’s Included
Total Instruction
24 hours; 4 hours online & 20 hours in person
Continuing Education
2.4 ASHA CEUs and AOTA approval for eligible OT and COTA participants, PT approval varies by State
Included With Purchase
- Pre-Course Modules
- Course Manual
-  Discount for our Trismus Course
- Clinician Materials
Upcoming In-Person Course Dates
Encinitas, CA
February 19–21, 2027
24-Hour Head & Neck Lymphedema Management Course
Instructor:Â Lauren Meffen, SLP, CLTÂ
Investment:Â $700
Cleveland, OH
December 11-13, 2026
24-Hour Head & Neck Lymphedema Management Course
Instructors:Â Lauren Meffen, SLP, CLT & Brad Smith, SLP, CLT
Investment:Â $650
Toronto, CA
October 23-25, 2026
24-Hour Head & Neck Lymphedema Management Course
Instructors:Â Lauren Meffen, SLP, CLT & Brad Smith, SLP, CLT
Investment:Â $667
Houston, TX
October 09-11, 2026
24-Hour Head & Neck Lymphedema Management Course
Instructors: Lauren Meffen, SLP, CLT & Brad Smith, SLP, CLT
Investment: $650
Meet Your Instructors
Learn With Experienced Head & Neck Rehabilitation Clinicians
Lauren Meffen, MA CCC/SLP, CLT
Speech-language pathologist and certified lymphedema therapist specializing in head & neck oncology, voice, and swallowing disorders.
Lauren is known for her clinician-led, practical teaching style and commitment to helping providers feel confident treating complex patients.
Brad Smith, MS CCC/SLP, CLT
Speech-language pathologist and certified lymphedema therapist. He graduated in 1988 and is one of the earliest SLP-certified lymphedema therapists in the U.S. in 2006. Now with 20 years of head & neck lymphedema experience Brad helped build one of the busiest head & neck lymphedema programs in the country at MD Anderson and continues to mentor clinicians nationwide.Â
Frequently Asked Questions
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Do I need prior lymphedema training?
When do I complete the virtual portion?
What should I bring to the in-person course?
Will I practice techniques with other participants?
What continuing education credit is available for my profession and state?
What is the cancellation or transfer policy?
Who should I contact about accessibility needs or course accommodations?
You don’t need more information—you need hands-on experience, clinical clarity, and support you can trust.
If you’re ready to strengthen your skills and better serve your patients, this course was designed for you.
Reserve Your Spot