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Dr. Melissa switched career gears midway in her twenties as she decided to learn more about the ways to heal her own body from a natural perspective. She sought a Masters in Holistic Nutrition as well as a Doctorate of Naturopathy. Naturopathy (also known as naturopathic medicine or natural medicine) is an alternative medical system that focuses on natural remedies and the body’s vitalistic ability to heal and maintain itself.

Melissa is also a Vodder trained Certified Lymphatic Drainage Therapist and is certified in treating all aspects of lymphedema including upper extremity, trunk and lower extremity lymphedema in men, women and children. With over 1100 clinical hours of training, Melissa was personally trained by the team who created electro lymphatic drainage therapy and maintains a vigorous schedule the involves work with cancer clinical trials, cancer patients in the beginning, middle and end phases of surgery, chemo/radiation and end stage supportive care as well as is referred to by many local, regional and national plastic surgeons for her assistance in promoting adequate lymph drainage, surgery recovery and speedy healing of surgical incisions.

Melissa is also a trained LSP laser therapist and uses a specialized FDA approved blue light laser for addressing scar tissue reduction, cellulite reduction and tightening of skin around the face, neck and chin.

For the past 12 years, Melissa’s focus has been working with individuals addressing digestive disorders, hormone balance, detoxification therapies and primary and secondary lymphedema cases through lymphatic decongestive treatments. Most often, clients come to Melissa after they have sought traditional medical resources and have felt frustrated, overwhelmed or unheard.

MELISSA’S JOURNEY

Melissa’s interest in natural health and wellness is personal. In 2003 Melissa suffered from a very severe case of Epstein Barr Virus that crippled her immune system and literally changed her life and view of preventative healthcare.

Melissa’s journey towards wellness incorporated a series of natural health therapies including: acupuncture, juicing, detoxification, hydro colonics, immune boosting herbs, immunotherapy, color therapy, spinal adjustments and massage.

Wellness is a process and Melissa’s passion grew as she learned about the various ways the body heals and the various causes of dis-ease. It became apparent her life’s mission was to help others in their wellness journey.

Melissa believes that the majority of dis-ease is rooted in digestion – how we eat, what we eat, food preparation and how the body reacts to food as it travels through the entire digestive tract. A malfunctioning digestive system can cause imbalance within the body and can stress our organs and our glands. Hormone imbalances, allergies, arthritis, joint pain, autoimmune disorders, gout, eczema, acne, chronic fatigue, ADD, PMS, diabetes, heart disease and high cholesterol can all be linked to a malfunctioning In addition to imbalances, many individuals are experiencing mineral and vitamin deficiencies.

EDUCATION

2000 BA, Florida State University
2005 Masters in Holistic Nutrition, Clayton College of Natural Health
2008 Doctorate in Naturopathic Medicine, University of Bridgeport
2012, A4M Fellowship in Anti-Aging, Regenerative, and Functional Medicine
2014, Masters in Metabolic and Nutritional Medicine, University of South Florida, School of Biomedical Sciences College of Medicine

 

CERTIFICATIONS

2007 Dr. Vodder School International, Lymphatic Therapy Complete Decongestant Therapy (CDT) Training
2008 CNHP – Certified Natural Health Practitioner
2009 LSP Laser Therapist Certification
2011 Certified FEAMT Lymphatic Decongestive Therapist | Level I and Level II
2013 Lymphemedema Certification (Manual Lymphatic Drainage – Basic & Advanced Vodder Technique), Klose Training