Our Team
Rohit Suri, MD - Board-Certified Obesity Medicine Specialist
Dr. Rohit Suri is a board-certified obesity medicine specialist at Nova Physician Wellness Center. Serving patients in Fairfax andAshburn, Virginia, he is dedicated to providing individuals with care to ensure their future health, using both cutting-edge medical research and more traditional, conventional methods.
As an expert in weight loss, he helps men and women navigate the challenges associated with nutrition, exercise, behavioral change, and more.
He is a board-certified obesity medicine specialist and also a long-standing member of the American Society of Obesity Medicine and has completed specialized training in this new and emerging field. He is also a board-certified family physician and has been practicing medicine for the last 12 years.
Dr. Suri enjoys creating trusting, confident relationships with his patients. His goal is to help each individual prevent disease, achieve a healthy weight, and reduce risk factors for health complications through positive lifestyle changes. With an emphasis on safe, long-lasting results, he helps patients transform their bodies and their lives.
Seema Chaudhary, MD - Board-Certified Obesity Medicine Specialist
Dr. Seema Chaudhary is a preventive medicine expert and obesity physician at Nova Physician Wellness Center. As a health advocate for the people of Fairfax and Ashburn, Virginia, she has been in clinical practice for about 15 years.
She finished her residency from the University of Florida, Gainesville, and she joined Community Health Center Clearwater so that she could help the poor and underserved population. She moved from Florida to Northern Virginia and worked with Kaiser Permanente for about seven years.
During her tenure at Kaiser, she became more passionate about preventive medicine, especially treating obesity, which is the root cause of most chronic medical illnesses, like diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, sleep apnea, heartburn, and arthritis.
Seeing the growing need for weight management expertise, she switched her area of specialty to bariatric medicine. She is now a board-certified obesity medicine specialist and helps patients achieve their healthiest weight, wellness, and a reversal of cardiovascular risk factors.
As a primary care physician, Dr. Chaudhary understands the complexity of chronic medical illness associated with abnormal weight gain. She is comfortable and confident with the treatment of obesity, while also monitoring all associated diseases.
Dr. Chaudhary works closely with her patients and collaborates with primary care physicians to help her patients live happy, healthier lives.
Olivia Wright, MSN, NP-C - Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner
Olivia is a board-certified Adult Primary Care Nurse Practitioner with a Master of Science in Nursing from The Ohio State University in Columbus, OH. She received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Ashland University in Ashland, OH. Olivia’s prior nursing experience was spent caring for cancer patients in Medical Oncology, in addition to, time spent caring for their chronic illnesses that accompanied the cancer diagnosis. She became passionate in providing personalized care to patients on their journey to achieving their weight loss goals during a clinical rotation in a Bariatric/Weight Management Clinic. She recognizes the importance of creating manageable weight loss goals, providing exceptional support, tailoring treatment plans, and educating patients. Olivia strives to reduce the risk of various diseases and illnesses associated with obesity.
Olivia is originally from Ohio and recently moved from Northern Virginia to Charlottesville with her husband, daughter and her dog. In her free time, Olivia enjoys spending time with her family, activities in and around the water, and traveling with family and friends.
Josephine Bolivar , MSN, FNP-BC - Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner
Josephine is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner with a Master of Science in Nursing from George Washington University in Washington, DC. She completed the Accelerated BS Nursing program from the same university. She started out her career in the health field in the Philippines. After college, she became a licensed pharmacist from the University of the Philippines.
She went on to continue her studies in the field of medicine and graduated from University of Santo Tomas. She trained at Manila Doctors Hospital and became a licensed pediatrician. She practiced pediatrics for about 3 years before she got married and moved to the United States. She worked in the primary care setting before being in our practice.
She believes in a patient-centered, individualized approach to health care. Guided by the principle of “doing no harm”, she finds joy in bringing relief and comfort to her patients. She currently lives in Virginia with her husband and daughter. She enjoys quality time with family and friends. She loves to travel and discover new things.
Jennifer Syracuse, MSN, FNP-BC - Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner
Jennifer is a board certified family nurse practitioner with a Master of Science in Nursing from Marymount University. She completed an accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing program from George Mason University as well as a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Marymount University.
She has extensive experience as a Nurse Practitioner in primary care and most recently in outpatient cardiovascular medicine.
Jennifer is a dedicated advocate for enhancing health outcomes in chronic disease. Her passion lies in fostering sustainable changes that significantly contribute to the health and well-being of patients. Her empathetic approach ensures a supportive environment for individuals on their weight loss journey focusing on lasting improvements in health. In her free time, she enjoys cooking with her husband, gardening and journaling.
Nora Habib, MSN, FNP-C – Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner
Nora is a board certified Family Nurse Practitioner with a master of science degree in nursing from MCPHS University in Massachusetts. She has worked in community health centers in the primary care setting as a registered nurse prior to joining our practice.
She is passionate about building strong relationships with her patients and providing education and support along their health journey. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family and traveling.
Rachel Allani, MSN, FNP-BC
Rachel is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner at Nova Physician Wellness Center in Lansdowne, Virginia. Rachel received her Bachelor of Science in Community Health, then Bachelor of Science in Nursing, both from George Mason University in Fairfax, VA. As a bedside nurse, she came to see the burden that chronic disease places on individuals and families. Always having had the goal to pursue higher education, she completed her Master of Science in Nursing from Chamberlain University and transitioned to the role of a Family Nurse Practitioner.
Rachel believes that indeed, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. We can avoid many health problems by implementing changes that support improved function and optimal overall health. She loves helping people achieve their wellness goals.
Rachel has long resided in Northern Virginia and enjoys spending time with family, being in nature, as well as reading and traveling to expand perspective
Monika Suwal, MSN, NP-C Family Nurse Practitioner
Monika is a board-certified Nurse Practitioner with a master’s degree in nursing from Chamberlain University in Chicago, IL. She has been in direct patient care for more than two decades in Nursing. She fully understands that obesity is the underlying cause of several medical problems like Diabetes, Hypertension, Sleep apnea, High cholesterol, etc. She is dedicated to helping her patients achieve healthy lives by controlling body weight
Before joining the weight loss clinic, she was a primary care nurse practitioner for about nine months. She has worked as a Registered Nurse in various departments, including acute care, surgical care, and postoperative care, for 15 years. She also worked as a Registered Nurse in hospitals, clinics, and academic institutions in Nepal.
Monika enjoys outdoor activities, running, and spending time with family and friend.
Catherine Waldner MSN, FNP-C - Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner
Catherine is a Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner with a Master of Science in Nursing from Chamberlain University in Chicago. She received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Niagara University in Niagara Falls, NY. Catherine’s previous nursing experience includes working with critically ill patients in the surgical intensive care unit, as well as caring for patients in the recovery room after surgery. Catherine is passionate about guiding patients towards a healthy lifestyle, and enjoys tailoring care plans to each individual. She loves encouraging her patients to succeed in their weight loss journey.
Catherine lives in Northern Virginia with her husband and yellow lab. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with friends and family, trying new restaurants, reading, walking, and cheering on the Buffalo Bills.
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Kelly McGuffin, MS, RDN, LDN - Lead Dietitian at Nova Physician Wellness Center
Kelly McGuffin is a Registered Dietitian and a Certified Health Coach with a bachelor's degree in dietetics and a minor in public health/health assessment and promotion from James Madison University. Kelly graduated Magna Cum Laude and went on to complete her dietetic internship from the University of Virginia. Kelly also received her master’s degree in nutrition from Central Michigan University where she graduated Summa Cum Laude. Over the past 20 years, Kelly has a diverse background working in the hospital setting as well as the outpatient setting. Areas of practice include working with both the adult and pediatric population with obesity and a diverse range of medical conditions from celiac disease, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, hypertension, bariatric surgery, heart disease, eating disorders, kidney disease, pulmonary disease, substance abuse, and much more. Kelly is also a Certified low FODMAP dietitian for those struggling with IBS. Kelly enjoys spending time with her husband and two beautiful girls. They enjoy traveling, walking (getting her steps in :-)/biking outdoors, reading, and family movie nights. Kelly is passionate with helping clients meet their nutritional needs and reaching their goals!
Sheela Venkatesan, Director of Nutrition and Corporate Wellness MS, BCS, CHC
Sheela Venkatesan serves as the Director of Nutrition and Corporate Wellness at NPWC. In addition to this role, she is a Clinical Nutritionist and Behavioral Change Specialist. Sheela values making a personal connection with individuals, which is essential for helping patients reach their health goals and sustain improvements for the long term. She has worked with people of all backgrounds in both clinical and corporate settings. Sheela obtained a Masters of Science in Nutrition from American University, and is a Certified Health Coach. She utilizes her expertise in behavioral change to instill seemingly small, yet significant changes that translate into lifelong healthy behaviors for her patients.
Brianna Lawless, MS, RDN
Brianna Lawless is a Registered Dietitian with a Masters in Nutrition and Dietetics from Marywood University. Brianna completed her dietetic internship with Marywood University where she worked over 1000 hours of supervised practice experience in acute care, community nutrition, food service management, and long term care . Brianna holds a bachelor's of science degree in nutrition from Marywood University as well. After studying nutrition for 6 years, Brianna uses her knowledge and passion to assist patients in feeling their best and achieving their individual goals. She works diligently with each of her patients to teach them lifestyle habits that are sustainable long term. Brianna has a passion for nutrition and helping each patient she interacts with reach their full potential. The nutrition education Brianna provides encompasses lifestyle changes that allows patients to live a healthier and more fulfilling life. The journey to achieving a healthful lifestyle and overall well-being is a learning process but Brianna takes pride in walking her patients through each step until they are ready to be on their own and achieve the healthiest version of themselves.
Heidi Hunnicutt, MS, RDN
Heidi Hunnicutt is a Registered Dietitian with a Master’s in Clinical Nutrition from the University of Tennessee. Heidi completed her dietetic internship with a focus in acute care, public health, food service, and long term care. Heidi received her bachelor’s degree in nutrition from the University of Tennessee as well. Heidi values learning more about her patients and tailoring nutrition interventions to their specific lifestyle and individual goals. Heidi emphasizes small, sustainable steps towards achieving an overall healthier lifestyle. No matter where an individual is on their health journey, Heidi desires to meet patients where they are at in providing nutrition education and encouragement.
Yeevon Gan MS, RDN, IBCLC
Yeevon is a Registered Dietitian and an International Board Certified Lactation Consultation. She obtained her Master’s degree in Nutrition and completed her dietetic internship with State University of New York (SUNY) at Buffalo. She received her Bachelor of Science in Nutrition from Indiana University of Pennsylvania. Yeevon has a diverse background working in outpatient and long-term care settings. Her prior experience includes working with both the pediatric and adult population with obesity and a wide range of medical conditions such as hyperlipidemia, hypertension, diabetes, eating disorders, food allergies/intolerance, kidney disease and many more. Yee Von has a training certification in adult weight management from the Academy of Nutrition & Dietetics and is passionate to help patients in achieving their health goals in a sustainable way. Outside of work, Yeevon enjoys spending time with her two young children and husband. They enjoy traveling and spending time outdoors hiking/walking and camping.
Ashlynn Thomas, MPH, RDN
Ashlynn Thomas is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) with Master of Public Health (MPH) from University of South Florida. She started her career with the Veterans Administration Health Care System and also served as a nutritionist for the women's soccer team at Cal Poly Pomona during undergraduate studies. She has personal and professional background in sports and performance nutrition, chronic condition/ autoimmune condition management, and IBS nutrition. Outside of work, she enjoys pilates, playing with her toddler and - of course - cooking at home.
Patricia "Pat" Balmediano, MPH, RDN
Pat is a Registered Dietitian with a Bachelor's degree in Biology from the College of Charleston and a Master's degree in Public Health and Nutrition from UNC Chapel Hill. She started her career in the hospital setting, working with an interdisciplinary team to provide nutrition care that ranged from nutrition counseling to tube feeding and parenteral nutrition. During her time there, she developed a passion for education and connecting with patients about building healthy habits outside the hospital. As a team member at NPWC, Pat is excited to be a part of your long-term health journey. Outside of work, she loves reading novels, trying out new restaurants in the DMV area, and watching Korean dramas.
Hilary Baughman, MS, RDN, CLC
Hilary Baughman is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) with a Bachelor’s degree in Diet and Exercise and Master of Science from Iowa State University. She has outpatient clinical experience with weight management, diabetes, heart disease, tube feeding, chronic kidney disease, eating disorders, and women’s health. Hilary is also a certified functional nutrition counselor as well as certified lactation counselor (CLC). She enjoys meeting clients where they are at and providing an individualized approach. Outside of nutrition, Hilary enjoys walks in the DC area, as well as time with her husband and puppy.
Agape Gooden RDN, LD
Agape is a Registered Dietitian with a bachelor’s degree from Radford University in nutrition and dietetics. She graduated cum laude and went on to complete her dietetic internship at the University of Virginia where she gained 1000 hours of supervised practice experience in various clinical and outpatient settings (NICU, bariatric clinic, oncology, radiology, diabetes education clinic, WIC, nutrition support surgery, nutrition support medicine, transplant, etc). She has experience working in the WIC department within a clinic setting as well as multiple skilled nursing facilities. From these experiences, she learned how to tailor nutrition education to suit the individual’s needs. She has a passion for nutrition counseling and establishing meaningful relationships with clients. She seeks to help them become more aware of their overall nutrition goals and help them to reach their full potential. Outside of work, Agape enjoys spending time with her family, exploring new restaurants in the DMV area, art museums, and music.
Sheeri Jonnala, MS, RD
Sheeri Jonnala is an experienced Clinical Dietitian with a demonstrated history of working in the hospital & health care industry. She is skilled in health promotion, weight management and clinical nutrition. She obtained her Master of Science (MS) focused in Human Nutrition from Drexel University. Sheeri enjoys trying new recipes, traveling and playing with her two girls.
Testimonials
Words from our patients
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"Nova Physician Wellness Center has been a great place for me. I have loss close to 40 pounds and I am very happy about that. Dr. Suri and staff are great."
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"Dr. Suri is the sweetest, most caring doctor I have ever met. I will be forever grateful to him for pushing and helping the way he does."
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"Finally a diet program based on science, medicine and nutrition - and best of all it works. In two months I've lost almost 20 pounds."
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"I've worked with both Dr. Suri and Dr. Chaudhary. They've both been great and the program really works. All of the office staff are helpful and friendly as well."
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"Nova Wellness Center is very professional, compassionate, caring, and very much dedicated to the health of curing and fighting obesity."
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"Thanks so much Dr. Rohit and Melissa for giving me a whole new lease on life. I would highly recommend you to anyone and everyone."
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"I have been going to Nova Physician since late August. It's been the best thing I could have done for my health. Love the doctors and the staff."
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"The day I walked into that office was a life changing day. If you are seriously ready to commit to losing weight give them a call. You will not regret it!"
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"I have had an outstanding experience and wish all health care providers take care of their patients with same care, diligence and expertise as Dr. Chaudhary."
