Certificate in Manual Lymphatic Drainage

Become a Certified Lymphatic Therapist!

The NTC Manual Lymphatic Drainage Course is a Continuing Professional Development (CPD) programme designed specifically for suitably qualified manual therapists seeking to deepen their knowledge and skills in lymphatic drainage techniques.

Why our lymphatic drainage workshop?

You will gain the skills and confidence to incorporate Manual Lymphatic Drainage into your practice immediately, delivering measurable results for a wider range of clients.

Evidence Based

Grounded in the latest research on the lymphatic system, this course gives you a deep understanding of the theory and principles behind lymphatic drainage therapy and how it works.

Practical

Hands-on training in lymphatic drainage techniques ensures you leave with the practical skills to incorporate this treatment modality into your existing practice with confidence.

Demand

Manual Lymphatic Drainage is one of the most in-demand therapy skills in wellness and clinical settings — this course positions you as a qualified specialist in a growing field.

Our graduates add Manual Lymphatic Drainage to their existing practice, support clients across a wide range of health and wellness goals, and deliver treatment outcomes that keep clients coming back. You'll leave fully equipped and ready to apply your new skills from day one.

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What our graduates say

Success Stories

A selection of testimonials from graduates of NTC's courses.

Colin Cassidy

After qualifying, I went on to build a successful practice in Ireland and Australia — even treating Olympic athletes including Sir Chris Hoy.

Colin Cassidy
Neuromuscular Therapy Graduate
Colin Cassidy
Colin Cassidy
Neuromuscular Therapy Graduate

In April 2012 I completed the Certificate level Neuromuscular Therapy course. Since I completed the course I have had massive success and progression. I had several private clients that I attained from advertising in the gym that I was working in, and also worked on a referral basis with physiotherapist David Gardiner owner of Physiotherapyworks in Naas Co.Kildare.

In August 2012 I moved to Perth, Australia where I have enjoyed even more success. I spent 8 months working at Subiaco Sports Massage and while working in this clinic I had the privilege of treating several Olympic athletes including Sir Chris Hoy of the GB cycling team and also Western Force rugby team of the super 15s competition.

I really enjoyed my time at the NTC – we really had a great group and we all keep in touch.

Steve Kirby

In 26 years of professional practice, few programmes have matched the standard and depth of this one.

Steve Kirby
Neuromuscular Therapy Graduate
Steve Kirby
Steve Kirby
Neuromuscular Therapy Graduate

I have been in the Sports Massage and the treatment of occupational and sporting injuries profession for 26 years and have attended many courses to gain the necessary qualifications to give my very best to those in my care. I had read a book written by John Sharkey which was well written, extremely informative and an excellent reference source. I subsequently had the pleasure of meeting John and went on to register for a Neuromuscular Therapy programme.

It is an excellent course with lectures of the highest standard delivering essential information and first-rate techniques. Applying them in clinical practice I have seen very positive outcomes in patients of all ages. I highly recommend NTC for all therapists at any stage in their career. You will not be disappointed.

Ismail Sina

This programme transformed how I treat pain. One long-term client experienced an 80% reduction in chronic knee pain after just a few hours of treatment.

Ismail Sina
Neuromuscular Therapy Graduate
Ismail Sina
Ismail Sina
Neuromuscular Therapy Graduate

Thank you to John Sharkey and all the NTC tutors. The Advanced European Neuromuscular Therapy course has been an eye-opener for me because of my background in Personal Training and Sports Massage. I have learnt unique ways of treating pain and have been applying these techniques to my existing clients.

In particular, a long-term client of mine with knee chronic pain, after few hours of treatment her knee pain has reduced by 80 percent.

Once again thank you to all NTC tutors this would not have been possible without you. It is a shame the course has come to an end but I also can’t wait to treat people with chronic pain and do a diploma in Neuromuscular Therapy. I will definitely recommend this course to a friend or a family member.

This education has fundamentally elevated me as a practitioner and reshaped the future of my practice.

Rob Date
Neuromuscular Therapy Graduate
Rob Date
Neuromuscular Therapy Graduate

Thanks once again for an inspiring and enlightening weekend (although my wife’s upper trapezius muscles may disagree!). Learnt loads and I am very excited about the future of my practice.

Although already incredibly busy I find treating people with pain much more interesting and fulfilling than a runner with a tweaked calf. The education you have given me is truly going to develop me as a practitioner in such a dramatic way.

Thanks, John. Sad the course is coming to an end but will thoroughly recommend to others and will look to do the Masters in the future.

My time at NTC sparked my passion for Anatomy and Physiology and ultimately led me to pursue a career in Nursing.

Eamonn Maher
Neuromuscular Therapy Graduate
Eamonn Maher
Neuromuscular Therapy Graduate

My experience at NTC was an enjoyable and positive one. This is where I realised my interest in Anatomy, Physiology and caring for people and is the main reason I’ve decided to go back to studying Nursing.

I met some fantastic people during my time at NTC and what I learned has played a huge part in me getting a place on Nursing studies.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank the staff and tutors for guiding me to where I am now.

Alan Devine

This programme delivers a qualification that is widely recognised and respected within the industry.

Alan Devine
Neuromuscular Therapy Graduate
Alan Devine
Alan Devine
Neuromuscular Therapy Graduate

Can I pass on my sincerest gratitude to all the staff at NTC ? Once again you all have delivered another professional and enjoyable course that ensures a qualification that is recognised and accepted with high regard within the industry.

Successfully completing the Neuromuscular Therapy exams was the first step in a new professional chapter.

Liam Cotter
Neuromuscular Therapy Graduate
Liam Cotter
Neuromuscular Therapy Graduate

The good news is that I passed my Neuromuscular Therapy exams. I would like to pass on my sincere thanks to all the team in NTC for helping me in step one of a plan. You are a great team with wonderful tutors.

Nicole Dunne

The encouragement and guidance from my tutors gave me the confidence to perform at my best in my exams.

Nicole Dunne
Neuromuscular Therapy Graduate
Nicole Dunne
Nicole Dunne
Neuromuscular Therapy Graduate

I have just sat my NMT exams and if it wasn’t for Larry, one of my tutors who helped me out, I would have let my nerves get the best of me. I also wish to thank the rest of the tutors and staff for all their help over the past 18 months.

Everything You Need to Know

Course Details

Develop the skills to use cupping therapy with confidence, combining hands-on technique, clinical knowledge, and evidence-based practice to deliver effective, targeted treatments for a wide range of presentations.

Overview

The NTC Manual Lymphatic Drainage course provides qualified manual therapists with a comprehensive grounding in the theory, principles, and practical application of lymphatic drainage therapy — equipping you to incorporate this in-demand treatment modality into your existing practice with confidence.

At a Glance Details
Format Hands-on CPD workshop with theory and practical components
Covers Anatomy and physiology of the lymphatic system, indications and contraindications, manual lymphatic drainage principles and techniques, compression therapy, lymphatic exercises, and postural recommendations
Skills Gained Hand placement, rhythm and pressure application, adjunctive techniques, hygiene and safety, and client communication
Suitable For Qualified manual therapists seeking to expand their treatment offering

Content

This two-day workshop combines theory and hands-on practice in equal measure — delivered through lectures, demonstrations, and guided practical sessions designed to leave you fully equipped to offer Manual Lymphatic Drainage as a confident addition to your existing treatment protocols.

  • Anatomy and Physiology of the Lymphatic System
  • Role of the Lymphatic System in Homeostasis and Immune Function
  • Indications, Contraindications and Clinical Applications
  • Hygiene, Safety and Ethical Considerations
  • Manual Lymphatic Drainage Principles and Techniques
  • Hand Placement, Rhythm and Pressure Application
  • Compression Therapy and Lymphatic Exercises
  • Postural Recommendations and Adjunctive Modalities
  • Client Communication and Education
  • Hands-On Practice and Tutor Feedback

Fees

Course fees for the Manual Lymphatic Drainage workshop are outlined below. Full payment is required to secure your place.

Payment Option Details
Standard Fee €450
Early Bird Rate €350 (save €100 — full payment received at least one calendar month before course start date)
ANMT Member Discount 10% off standard or early bird rate — www.anmt.ie

Full payment required at time of booking. Contact us on +353 1 882 7777 for further information.

Eligibility

This course is open to qualified massage and manual therapy professionals with a foundational understanding of human anatomy and physiology and practical experience in therapeutic interventions.

Entry Requirements
Eligible Professions Qualified massage therapists, neuromuscular therapists, holistic massage therapists, and manual therapists
Prior Knowledge Foundational understanding of human anatomy and physiology
Practical Experience Demonstrated proficiency in massage therapy techniques and therapeutic interventions

If you are unsure whether you meet the entry requirements, please contact us at info@ntc.ie before booking.

Assessment

This is a continuing professional development course. Continual formative assessment and tutor feedback is provided throughout, allowing participants to monitor their progress and refine their skills in a supportive learning environment.

Assessment and Certification
Assessment Type Continual formative assessment and tutor feedback throughout the course
Certificate NTC CPD Certificate of Completion
Demonstrates Competence in Manual Lymphatic Drainage and commitment to ongoing professional development
Dates & Availability

Ready to Add Lymphatic Drainage
to Your Practice?

Secure your place now — this is a two-day course with strictly limited availability.

Dublin

One Weekend · On-Site

Good Availability
April 11th 2026
Saturday and Sunday from 9am to 5pm
April 11th and 12th 2026
Please note that although unlikely, date may be subject to change

NTC, Dublin City Centre

Dublin

One Weekend · On-Site

Good Availability
August 29th 2026
Saturday and Sunday from 9am to 5pm
August 29th and 30th 2026
Please note that although unlikely, date may be subject to change

NTC, Dublin City Centre

Your Instructors

Meet your Team

Our expert tutors will ensure that you qualify with the knowledge to safely administer lymphatic drainage techniques

John Sharkey, MSc
John Sharkey
John Sharkey, MSc

John Sharkey is a well-known international educator, author, and expert in various fields such as Clinical Anatomy, Exercise Physiology, human movement, and manual treatment of chronic pain using European Neuromuscular Therapy. He is a graduate of the University of Dundee, University of Liverpool, and University of Chester, completing both undergraduate and post-graduate studies in Exercise Physiology and Clinical Anatomy. He also holds a post-graduate certificate in education.

John is a senior lecturer in the Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Life Sciences at the University of Chester/NTC, Dublin. Additionally, he serves as the programme leader for the highly acclaimed series of Human Anatomy Dissection programmes , delivered past, present and future at King’s College London (England), The University of Dundee (Scotland), The Ohio State University (USA), Trecchi Human Academy (Italy) and The University of Witwatersrand School of Anatomical Sciences (South Africa). These courses are delivered teaching the geometry of anatomy and movement from the unique perspective of Biotensegrity-Anatomy for the 21st Century. His presentations are informative, entertaining, respectful, and insightful.

John is a proponent of the “Biotensegrity-Anatomy for the 21st century” model, which incorporates the groundbreaking work of his mentor, Dr. Stephen Levin MD. John is recognised as one of the foremost experts in the world on fascia and Biotensegrity. He specialises in teaching European Neuromuscular Therapy using living anatomy to address chronic pain conditions. Furthermore, he serves on the editorial board of professional journals such as the Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies (JBMT) and the International Journal of Osteopathic Medicine.

Kevin Prunty, MSc
Kevin Prunty, MSc

Kevin is a highly experienced Neuromuscular Therapist (NMT) and a proud member of the Association of Neuromuscular and Massage Therapists (ANMT). His years of study and practical experience have given him a deep understanding of the integration of NMT within the wider health, fitness, and athletic performance fields. Kevin has worked with many high-profile clients and organisations, including Monaghan United F.C. and Monaghan and Cavan GAA, where he offered sports first aid, pain and injury prevention strategies, and event massage.

With a passion for helping others and a background in emergency first aid, Kevin opened Back in Action, a pain and injury clinic in 2005. Since then, he has become a key member of the National Training Centre’s educational committee, contributing to the development and delivery of the Higher Diploma in Neuromuscular Therapy (HDipNMT). As the course leader, he has played an instrumental role in creating a comprehensive curriculum and implementing new teaching methods to improve the learning experience for students.

Kevin is currently pursuing his MSc in Neuromuscular Therapy, and he has completed fresh frozen cadaver dissections in the Department of Anatomy at Kings College London. As part of an international team of lecturers, he has also helped to bring advanced qualifications in NMT to groups of physiotherapists, osteopaths, and other healthcare providers in Warsaw, Poland, and Kings College London.

In addition to his work in NMT, Kevin also holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Communications in Creative Multimedia. He has leveraged his expertise to implement a streaming video resource for HDipNMT students, which is currently being expanded to include a range of courses offered by the National Training Centre. These videos feature world-renowned authorities and were filmed during actual classes and in a specialised studio at the National Training Centre. Thanks to Kevin’s efforts, students now have access to a wealth of knowledge and insights from experts in the field, helping them to develop their skills and achieve their goals.

Before you register

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an existing qualification to participate on this course?

What happens if I can’t make the course or if I miss a day?

What happens if the course does not go ahead?

Do I need to bring anything with me to the course?

Still have questions?

Our team is happy to help before you register.

ONSITE LESSONS
Practical classes take place either at NTC or SPORTSCO, Ringsend, Dublin 4
Saturday from 10:30am to 1pm and 2pm to 4:30pm

July 2025 –  26th♦
August 2025 – 9th, 16th, 23rd, 30th
September 2025 – 6th, 13th, 20th, 27th
October 2025 – 4th, 11th, 18th♦, 25th
November 2025 – 1st, 8th♦, 15th, 22nd, 29th, 30th
December 2025 – 6th & 7th
Examinations and/or class will start at 9:30am on dates indicated with ♦

ONLINE LESSONS
Tuesday and Thursday Evenings from 7pm to 9pm
(Recordings available afterwards)

July 2025 –  29th, 31st
August 2025 –  5th, 7th, 12th, 14th, 19th, 21st, 26th, 28th
September 2025 –  2nd, 4th, 9th, 11th, 16th, 18th, 23rd, 25th, 30th
October 2025 –  2nd, 7th, 9th, 14th, 16th, 21st, 23rd

OPTIONAL FREE COURSE
National Qualification in Kettlebell Training

November 2nd, 2025 – Sunday from 10:00-17:00

PLEASE NOTE
Dates are provisional and, although unlikely, NTC reserve the right to make changes to the timetable if and when necessary
National Training Centre, Dublin
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When did your course begin?

National Training Centre, Dublin City
15–16 St Joseph's Parade, Dorset Street, Dublin D07 F6CR

Lymphatic Drainage CPD Workshop

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