MELISSA FAITH-BAUN
Melissa Faith-Baun is both licensed and board-certified in massage therapy, has her manual lymphatic drainage (CMLDT) certification and is a preferred provider for the Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM) and Unite for Her. She is also a CE Instructor for the NCBTMB and S4OM. In 2000, after her father’s passing of lung cancer, Melissa returned to school to study oncology massage.
Her primary work is devoted to oncology massage and MLD. Melissa received her continuing education in Oncology Massage from MD Anderson’s Cancer Center in Houston Texas. In addition, she has also studied mastectomy massage. Her primary practice is with breast cancer patients and those experiencing lymphedema and in need of scar tissue mobilization secondary to radiation burn. She also works with progressed arthritis clients experiencing chronic pain.
Melissa began her massage career with Abington Memorial Hospital (now Abington/Jeff) employed with their Integrative Medicine Department. She previously worked as the Admissions Director of a Nursing Home before this career change. Melissa is a pioneer for Massage Therapy in the health care setting, helping to bring this valuable therapy to the awareness of doctors and patients. Melissa is currently employed by Cornerstone at the Health & Wellness Center by Doylestown Hospital. She began her employment here in 2005 with the intention of building an Integrative Wellness Center which includes oncology massage and lymphedema management services. The program now serves many oncology patients from surrounding communities. Melissa most recently served on the specialty task force with the Society for Oncology Massage, helping to write the guidelines and National Certification Exam for the new 100-hour specialty certificate in Oncology Massage.
Melissa believes it takes a village to care for a cancer patient. Since the death of her father, Melissa has lost numerous family members and friends to cancer. She believes that every cancer patient deserves nothing less than the trained, caring touch of Complimentary/Integrative services such as Oncology Massage, MLD and touch for pain management. She has witnessed time again what a positive impact they can make in the journey of a cancer patient.
Melissa would like to see all hospitals offer Integrative Wellness at their facilities. She often speaks with physicians and support groups to bring awareness about the importance of these Integrative Services. When Melissa is not working at her practice, she is busy teaching continuing education to massage therapists in Oncology Massage and medically based classes.
Melissa is available to speak with both physicians and hospital administrators that have an interest in developing an Integrative Wellness Center. She also offers onsite oncology training for Massage Therapists. All of Melissa's classes are NY NCBTMB approved.
Melissa Faith-Baun
LMT, BCTMB, CMLDT, S4OM, UFH Provider
CE Instructor, NCBTMB, S4OM
MELISSA'S CLASSES:
Lymphatic Drainage Massage
This is a 2-day, 16 CE class designed for the massage therapist who wants to better understand the lymphatic system and learn lymphatic drainage techniques to use in their practice. Lymphatic drainage is a rapidly growing modality being used in many types of specialties including; orthopedics, oncology, rheumatology/autoimmune, post-surgical and pregnancy to name a few. Lymphatic drainage massage is noninvasive, gentle and has a light touch.
We will explore both the superficial and deep lymphatic systems and understand the anatomy and function of both systems. What is lymph fluid and what does it do? What is lymphedema? What are the indications and contraindications of lymphatic drainage massage? These are some of the many questions that we will explore in this class. We will then learn the proper pressure, rhythm and sequence of movements to perform lymphatic massage. Specific breathing techniques that are used to facilitate lymph flow in the deeper vessels will also be taught.
This class is intended for the massage therapist who wants to advance their understanding of the lymphatic system and how to incorporate lymphatic drainage massage into their practice within the scope of a massage therapy.
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This is not a Manual Lymphatic Drainage Certification program which is 90 hours of continuing education plus exam.
TBD
16
CEs
$285
Cost per class
Essentials of Oncology Massage: A 4 Day Foundational Course
*NCBTMB NY APPROVED*
Instructors: Melissa Faith-Baun & Lin Roussel
This class welcomes both Massage Therapists and Estheticians!
Oncology massage is now recognized as a safe and recommended therapy to help manage symptoms brought on by cancer. Many health care facilities now incorporate integrative medicine into their cancer programs, treatment and infusion centers. With proper training, skilled touch and confidence, massage therapists and estheticians can safely help a client manage discomfort, while working within their SOP, roles and boundaries of their profession. In this three-day comprehensive course, the focus is on what we CAN DO for those living with cancer or are in early remission, using safe techniques to not only touch someone physically, but spiritually and emotionally as well. Current information, precautions, contraindications, safety for the therapist, esthetician, and client, as well as medication guidelines are just some of the important considerations taught in this class. Techniques for lymphedema, neuropathy, scar tissue and gentle touch for the medically frail, as well as draping and positioning are demonstrated and practiced. Self-awareness exercises, ideas for self-care, guest speakers and discussions about personal experiences with cancer as well as demos and hands-on practice round out this four-day S4OM foundational course.
Must be a licensed massage therapist or esthetician and carry current liability insurance to attend this training.
*LMTs can choose to join S4OM and/or Unite for Her after completing this class.
Please bring writing materials, a set of sheets, shorts, or capris and a tee shirt or tank top and your favorite massage cream or lotion to class. Class size is limited.
"I'm so excited to tell you that I have already used my oncology training. Had a patient come to the chiropractic office for a 60 minute massage and she checked yes in her medical history for cancer.
I was so excited that I didn't have to turn her away due to lack of education and I could explain the necessary modifications we needed to be able to have a safe massage.
It felt amazing knowing I have the correct knowledge to be able to help her safely. I cannot thank you enough for your class!" - Crystal H
*First 2 days are taken via Zoom.
This class can be taken in-person, or a combination of in-person and live webinar (hybrid).
March 14-17, 2024 at 701 Hyde Park in Doylestown, Pa
October 23-26, 2024 at LutherCare at 600 E. Main St in Lititz, Pa