Denise Clark, MD, FAAD

At Columbia Skin Clinic, we take pride in growing our team with exceptional providers who bring not only medical expertise but also compassion, integrity, and a commitment to patient care. That’s why we are thrilled to introduce our newest team member: Dr. Denise Clark, a fellowship-trained Mohs surgeon.

Dr. Clark joins us with extensive training in dermatologic surgery and a deeply personal, patient-centered approach to care. Her background, both professionally and personally, has shaped her into the kind of physician who takes time to understand each patient’s story and delivers care with precision, empathy, and purpose.

Originally from Brazil, Dr. Clark grew up in a close-knit family that instilled in her the importance of connection and community—values that continue to guide her today. Her first career path was actually outside of medicine. She worked in the field of climate change, addressing large-scale global challenges. Over time, she found herself seeking a more immediate and personal way to make a difference—one where she could see the impact of her work in the lives of individuals and families every day. That realization led her to medicine.

Dr. Clark earned her medical degree from Indiana University School of Medicine, where she was awarded the school’s highest merit scholarship, a testament to both her academic achievement and her strong sense of purpose. She went on to complete her dermatology residency at the University of Cincinnati, where she served as chief resident. She then completed a highly competitive fellowship in Mohs Micrographic Surgery and Dermatologic Oncology, refining her skills in this specialized area of skin cancer treatment. Her dedication to patient care was recognized with the Mutasim Humanitarian Award—an honor given to those who exemplify compassionate, patient-first care.

Dr. Clark’s connection to the United States began long before her medical journey. She first came to the U.S. as a high school exchange student in New Castle, Indiana, where she met her future husband. The two have since built a life together and are raising two sons, now ages 11 and 9. As a mother, physician, and immigrant, Dr. Clark brings a unique perspective to her work—balancing the many roles she plays with empathy and grace. She often draws on those life experiences to build strong, trusting relationships with her patients, knowing firsthand the importance of feeling heard and supported in the healthcare journey.

When she’s not in the clinic, Dr. Clark and her family enjoy staying active and spending time outdoors. Whether it’s hiking, biking, or playing soccer and tennis, they love discovering new places and being on the move together. She’s also passionate about healthy cooking and enjoys exploring new cultures—often through travel and cuisine.

What drew Dr. Clark to Mohs surgery is the unique blend of technical skill, artistry, and human connection it requires. Mohs micrographic surgery is considered the gold standard for treating many forms of skin cancer, offering the highest cure rates while preserving as much healthy skin as possible. For Dr. Clark, this work is about more than just removing cancer—it’s about restoring confidence, function, and well-being. She compares the practice to the work of dedicated athletes or artists, where years of training and refinement come together in a craft that changes lives.

Every patient, every case, every procedure matters deeply to Dr. Clark. She understands that when someone comes in with a skin cancer diagnosis, they are not just looking for a cure—they’re looking for reassurance, for understanding, and for someone they can trust. Dr. Clark takes this responsibility seriously. She listens carefully, explains thoroughly, and partners with her patients every step of the way.

Joining Columbia Skin Clinic feels like the perfect next chapter for Dr. Clark, and we couldn’t be more excited to welcome her to our team. She is eager to serve patients in Columbia and the surrounding communities, bringing the highest standard of dermatologic care with a warm and thoughtful touch.

If you’re facing a skin cancer diagnosis or have concerns that may require surgical evaluation, we invite you to meet Dr. Clark and experience her attentive, expert care firsthand. Her commitment to excellence, both in treatment and in patient relationships, makes her a trusted guide for those navigating what can often be an overwhelming health experience.

Please join us in giving a warm welcome to Dr. Denise Clark. We are proud to have her as part of the Columbia Skin Clinic family and know that her patients will quickly see the incredible value she brings—both as a skilled Mohs surgeon and as someone who genuinely cares.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Clark or to learn more about our dermatologic surgery services, book online or call 803-779-7316.

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