Dr. Alessandra Rossi Ricci – Pediatrician | Ottawa, ON

Dr. Alessandra Rossi Ricci is a dedicated Pediatrician committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate healthcare for infants, children, and adolescents. Practicing at Seniors Mental Health in Ottawa, ON, she is an integral part of the local pediatric healthcare community. Her practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring that each patient receives safe and evidence-based care. Dr. Ricci focuses on preventive care, well-child check-ups, immunizations, and the management of common childhood illnesses, promoting healthy growth and development from infancy through adolescence. Her family-centered approach aims to create a supportive environment where children and their families feel valued and understood, fostering a strong foundation for lifelong health.

Graduating with a Medical Degree from the University of Pavia in Italy, Dr. Ricci has accumulated over 8 years of experience as a Pediatrician since beginning her practice in 2016. She is recognized as a Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (RCPSC) Specialist in Pediatrics by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). Her extensive training and certification reflect her commitment to maintaining the highest standards of pediatric care, ensuring her patients benefit from current best practices and innovative treatment approaches.

Dr. Ricci’s clinical philosophy centers on family-centered care, evidence-based practice, and preventive health strategies. She believes in collaborating closely with parents and caregivers to tailor healthcare plans that meet each child's unique needs. Her dedication to young patients in Ottawa is complemented by her multilingual abilities—she speaks French, Italian, and Spanish in addition to English—allowing her to communicate effectively with diverse families and foster a welcoming, inclusive environment. Her goal is to support children’s health and development at every stage while providing reassurance and guidance to their families.

Dr. Alessandra Ricci provides care for a wide range of childhood conditions, including:

Common General Pediatric Conditions

• Asthma (Mild to Moderate): A chronic lung condition causing airway inflammation and narrowing, leading to wheezing and breathing difficulties.
• Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis - general management): A chronic skin condition causing dry, itchy, and inflamed skin.
• Minor Injuries (Cuts, Bruises, Sprains): Common physical injuries that occur during childhood play and activities.

Developmental & Behavioral Conditions

• Sleep Disorders in Children (Behavioral & Mild): Difficulties with initiating or maintaining sleep, or other sleep-related problems often managed with behavioral strategies.
• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): A complex developmental condition involving challenges with social communication, restricted interests, and repetitive behaviors.
• Anxiety & Mood Disorders in Children: Conditions like generalized anxiety, separation anxiety, or childhood depression affecting emotional well-being.

Adolescent Health Concerns

• Sports Injuries & Concussions: Injuries common in active teenagers, including head injuries requiring careful management.
• Substance Use Issues (Screening & Brief Intervention): Addressing concerns related to alcohol, tobacco, or drug use in adolescents.
• Adolescent Depression & Anxiety: Mental health challenges that can emerge or intensify during teenage years.

This list provides examples and is not exhaustive. For personalized advice, please discuss your child's specific situation with Dr. Alessandra Ricci.

• Developmental Screening & Surveillance: Assessing developmental milestones (motor, language, social, cognitive) and identifying potential delays for early intervention.
• Management of Chronic Pediatric Conditions: Ongoing care and coordination for children with long-term health issues like asthma, allergies, eczema, diabetes, and ADHD.
• Newborn Care & Examinations: Initial health assessments for newborns in hospital or clinic settings, including feeding support and parental guidance.
• Lead Exposure Risk Assessment & Screening: Evaluating risk factors for lead exposure and performing screening tests as indicated by guidelines.
• Vision & Hearing Screening: Basic screening tests to detect potential vision or hearing problems in children.
• Nutritional Counseling & Weight Management for Children & Adolescents: Guidance on healthy eating habits, addressing nutritional deficiencies, and managing weight concerns in the pediatric population.
• Routine Immunizations & Vaccinations: Administering vaccines according to provincial immunization schedules to protect children from preventable diseases.

Note: This list provides a general overview of services offered in Pediatrics (Comprehensive care for infants, children, and adolescents). Care plans are highly individualized to meet each child's specific health needs. Please discuss with Dr. Ricci or your healthcare team for details relevant to your child's care.

All medical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) and relevant pediatric care guidelines. Contact the clinic regarding new patient intake and referral processes.

Seniors Mental Health is conveniently situated in Ottawa's vibrant Elmvale Acres neighborhood, close to Hawthorne Meadows and Billings Bridge. The practice is nestled near notable landmarks such as the Ottawa River Pathway and the Canadian War Museum, making it an accessible and scenic location for families. Public transit options are abundant, with OC Transpo's O-Train LRT and bus services providing easy access. The facility is wheelchair accessible and designed to be welcoming to children and families, ensuring comfort for all visitors. Ample parking is available nearby, including metered street parking and parking lots, making visits convenient for busy families seeking quality pediatric care.

Are pediatric services with Dr. Ricci covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?

Medically necessary consultations, well-child visits, immunizations, and treatment for illnesses provided by a licensed Pediatrician like Dr. Ricci are generally covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON. Some specialized tests, procedures, or medications prescribed by a subspecialist may require pre-authorization or might have specific coverage criteria. It's always a good idea to confirm coverage details with Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) or Dr. Ricci's office, especially for subspecialty care.

Do I need a referral to see Dr. Ricci, a Pediatrician?

For a general Pediatrician, you may be able to book an appointment directly for your child, particularly if Dr. Ricci is accepting new patients or for newborn care. However, if Dr. Ricci is a pediatric subspecialist (e.g., a Pediatric Cardiologist or Developmental Pediatrician), a referral from your child's family doctor or a general pediatrician is usually required for services to be covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). It's best to check with Dr. Ricci's clinic directly regarding their new patient and referral policies. you may be able to book an appointment directly, especially if the practice is accepting new patients, or for newborn care.

What can I expect during my child's first visit or a well-child visit with a Pediatrician?

During your child's first visit or a routine well-child check-up with Dr. Ricci, She will conduct a thorough physical examination, measure your child's growth (height, weight, head circumference for infants), and discuss developmental milestones. She will also review immunization records, talk about nutrition, sleep, safety, and behavior appropriate for your child's age. This is an excellent opportunity for you to ask any questions you have about your child's health or development. These visits are key to preventive care and building a strong relationship with your child's doctor.

How should I manage my child's fever before contacting Dr. Ricci?

A fever is often a sign that the body is fighting an infection. If your child has a fever but is otherwise comfortable and playful, a specific number on the thermometer isn't always the most important factor. You can help them feel more comfortable by offering fluids, dressing them in light clothing, and ensuring they get rest. Acetaminophen or ibuprofen (if appropriate for age and no contraindications) can be used to reduce fever and discomfort; always follow dosing instructions. Contact Dr. Ricci's office if your child is under 3 months with any fever, has a very high fever, a fever lasting more than a few days, or if the fever is accompanied by other concerning symptoms like lethargy, rash, difficulty breathing, or signs of dehydration.

How does Dr. Ricci help manage chronic health conditions in children?

For children with chronic conditions like asthma, diabetes, or developmental disorders, Dr. Ricci plays a key role in ongoing management. This includes regular monitoring, adjusting treatment plans as needed, educating the child and family about the condition, coordinating care with other specialists or therapists, and providing support to help the child live a full and active life. The goal is to optimize health, manage symptoms, and support the child's overall well-being and development.

When should I take my child to see Dr. Ricci if they are sick?

You should contact Dr. Ricci's office if your child has symptoms that concern you, such as a high or persistent fever (especially in infants), difficulty breathing or rapid breathing, signs of dehydration (e.g., dry mouth, few wet diapers), severe pain, vomiting or diarrhea that is persistent or severe, a rash you're unsure about, unusual lethargy or irritability, or if your child just doesn't seem like themselves. The clinic staff can help determine if your child needs to be seen and how soon. For emergencies, always go to the nearest emergency department or call 911.

Seniors Mental Health
Room H101, 401 Smyth Road, St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton
Ottawa, ON K1H 8L1

Phone: (613) 737-7600

The facility is wheelchair accessible and aims to be welcoming to children and families.

Dr. Ricci is a licensed Pediatrician regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) under the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 and Medicine Act, 1991 in ON. Dr. Ricci may accept new patients directly for general pediatric care or via referral, depending on clinic policy. Please contact the clinic for information on new patient registration and any referral requirements for services covered by the provincial health plan.

Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Rossi-Ricci-Alessandra/0272849-96447