Our Team
Dr. Christina Parisi
After a decade treating patients with end-stage illnesses in the emergency room and witnessing her own father’s stroke from long-standing diabetes, Dr. Parisi founded Maryland Weight Care to focus on prevention through lifestyle change and treatment of metabolic conditions. She believes that prioritizing prevention and metabolic health is the key to a longer, healthier life.
Dr. Parisi earned her Biochemistry degree as a top scholar at Purdue University, attended medical school at Johns Hopkins University, and completed her residency at Johns Hopkins Hospital. She is a Diplomate of the American Board of Obesity Medicine and an active member of the Obesity Medicine Association. She lives in Howard County with her husband and three children and enjoys CrossFit, playing piano, and gardening in her free time.
Jody Engel, MA, RDN
Registered Dietitian
Jody began her career at Georgetown University providing health education and nutrition counseling. She then joined the National Institutes of Health, where she created patient centered, science-based nutrition resources and later served as Director of Communications at the Office of Disease Prevention. Inspired to make a more direct impact, she has shifted her focus to weight care—helping patients with evidence-based guidance and personal support.
She believes weight care isn’t about quick fixes but about building confidence, finding balance, and making choices that fit real lives. Outside of work, Jody enjoys family time, exploring new recipes and food trends, and staying active through walking and strength training.
Lashae Sawyer
Medical Assistant
Lashae Sawyer is a medical assistant who enjoys building strong connections with patients and supporting them on their health journeys. She is passionate about learning the human body and strives to help people feel comfortable and confident in their own skin. She finds fulfillment in encouraging patients as they work toward their personal goals and celebrating their progress along the way.
Outside of work, Lashae enjoys fashion, creating beautiful nail designs, attending live music events, traveling, and spending time with her beloved cats.
Michelle Vasquez
Medical Assistant
Michelle Vasquez is a medical assistant at Maryland Weight Care who is passionate about helping patients feel supported, comfortable, and confident throughout their health journeys.
She enjoys connecting with patients, learning about their individual goals, and being part of their progress toward a healthier lifestyle. Michelle is currently pursuing her nursing degree in college and is excited to continue expanding her knowledge and skills in healthcare. Her goal is to make a positive difference in the lives of the patients she works with while growing into a compassionate and dedicated nurse.
Outside of work and school, Michelle enjoys going to Pilates, staying active, trying new restaurants and coffee shops, traveling, listening to music, and spending quality time with friends and family.
Celine Castillo
Medical Assistant