Our Team

Below is a listing of the MUSC Health Weight Management Center faculty and staff.

Director:

Patrick M. O'Neil, PhD, is professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences at MUSC. He received his BS in economics from Louisiana State University and his MS and PhD. in clinical psychology from the University of Georgia. Dr. O'Neil has specialized in obesity since 1977 in numerous clinical, teaching, research and public education roles. He is and has been principal investigator for a large number of externally funded clinical trials of weight-loss agents and interventions. He is the author of more than 100 professional publications, chapters, and presentations. Dr. O'Neil is a former President of The Obesity Society, and has served on the editorial boards of several obesity-related scientific journals. He is a former member and chair of the South Carolina Board of Examiners in Psychology. In 2015 he was elected mayor of the Town of Sullivan's Island, having served as a member of Town Council since 2001.

Patient Services Staff:

Shawn Witherspoon

Shawn Witherspoon is a highly organized and detail-oriented Patient Navigator, with 18 years of experience supporting patients and providers and managing daily operations. Known for exceptional multitasking abilities and strong communication skills, Shawn excels at streamlining workflows and ensuring seamless communication across departments.

Physicians:

Robert Malcolm, M.D.

Robert Malcolm, M.D. is a board-certified psychiatrist, clinical researcher, and professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences at MUSC. He obtained his BS in Psychology from the University of Maryland and his MD from MUSC, and completed his residency in psychiatry at Stanford University Medical School where his interest in obesity was first kindled. He founded the Weight Management Center in 1974 and since then has overseen the medical aspects of Center clinical and research programs. In addition to his work and publications in obesity, Dr. Malcolm is also a recognized researcher and clinician in the areas of depression and substance abuse and is a retired Air Force Flight Surgeon.

Nursing Staff:

Rhoda Ascanio, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC

Behavior Specialist

Sarah Hales, MSW, Ph.D.

Sarah Hales, MSW, PhD, is a Licensed Independent Social Worker and an Assistant Professor at MUSC. She received her board certification in Interdisciplinary Obesity and Weight Management (CSOWM) from the Commission on Dietetic Registration. She has been with the Weight Management Center since 2016. She has been active in The Obesity Society, serving as member and Chair of the Society’s Early Career Committee, Dr. Hales is also affiliated with MUSC’s Diabetes Prevention Program and Center for Telehealth.

Registered Dietitians:

Megan Tomlin, MS, RDN, LDN

Megan Tomlin, MS, RDN, LDN, is a registered dietitian with a Bachelor's degree in Dietetics, Master's in Community Nutrition. She completed her Dietetic Internship at the Medical University of South Carolina before starting as a full-time RD in obesity medication and weight management. She has completed the Commission on Dietetic Registration’s certificate of training in Obesity for Pediatrics and Adults. Megan is dedicated to helping individuals achieve their health goals by creating sustainable, personalized strategies that fit their unique lifestyles.

Bailey Edge, MS, RDN, LDN

Bailey Edge, MS, RDN, LDN, is a registered dietitian and nutrition specialist. Bailey graduated from Auburn University with a BS in Nutrition and Dietetics. She earned her MS degree at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, where she also completed her dietetic internship. She has completed the Commission on Dietetic Registration’s certificate of training in Obesity for Pediatrics and Adults and is actively pursuing board certification as a specialist in obesity and weight management.

Exercise Physiologists

Traci Finley, MS

Traci Finley, MS, is an Exercise Physiologist. She graduated with a BS in Exercise Science from the College of Charleston and an MS in Exercise Physiology from the University of South Carolina. She has a wide range of clinical experience; in addition to her work with Weight Management Center patients, she also provides services to other clients of the MUSC Health and Wellness Institute.

Research Staff:

Mary Harley, BS

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