Dr. Jessica Moretti is a specialized Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist, dedicated to diagnosing and treating mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders in children and adolescents. Practicing at a mental health clinic within a hospital department in Sooke, BC, she is a key member of the local mental healthcare community. She adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). Dr. Moretti focuses on developmental considerations in youth mental health, addressing conditions like ADHD, anxiety, depression, and autism spectrum disorder-related challenges in young people. Her approach is rooted in a deep understanding of the unique needs of children and teenagers, offering a comprehensive, compassionate, and evidence-based practice. The clinic provides a youth-friendly and family-inclusive environment designed to support young patients and their families through personalized care and support.
Dr. Moretti graduated with an MD from Laurentian University in Canada and holds specialty certification as a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist. She has earned key certifications including those from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, reflecting her expertise and commitment to excellence in mental health care for youth. Her training and ongoing professional development ensure she remains current with best practices and emerging treatments in her field.
Her clinical philosophy emphasizes a family-centered and developmentally-informed approach. Dr. Moretti creates a safe, engaging space for young people, fostering resilience and positive mental health trajectories. She collaborates closely with families, schools, and other healthcare providers to develop tailored treatment plans that promote overall well-being. She provides care in English and is dedicated to supporting her patients in Sooke and the surrounding areas through compassionate, respectful, and confidential psychiatric services.
Dr. Jessica Moretti provides assessment and treatment for a wide spectrum of mental health conditions, including:
Neurodevelopmental Disorders (Psychiatric Aspects)
- Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) - Adult & Child/Adolescent: A neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent patterns of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity that interfere with functioning or development.
- Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) - Co-occurring Psychiatric Conditions: Management of associated psychiatric conditions like anxiety, depression, OCD, or ADHD that frequently co-occur in individuals with ASD.
- Tourette's Syndrome & Tic Disorders (Psychiatric Co-morbidities): Addressing co-occurring psychiatric conditions like ADHD or OCD in individuals with Tourette's or other tic disorders.
Mood Disorders
- Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD): A severe form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) with significant mood swings, irritability, depression, or anxiety in the week or two before menstruation.
- Adjustment Disorder with Depressed Mood: Development of emotional or behavioral symptoms like sadness or hopelessness in response to an identifiable stressor occurring within 3 months of the onset of the stressor.
- Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia): A chronic form of depression with less severe but longer-lasting symptoms than major depression, present for at least two years.
Anxiety, OCD & Trauma-Related Disorders
- Panic Disorder (with or without Agoraphobia): Recurrent, unexpected panic attacks (sudden periods of intense fear) and persistent concern about having additional attacks or their consequences.
- Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): Excessive, persistent worry and anxiety about various everyday life events or activities, often difficult to control.
- Agoraphobia: Fear and avoidance of situations where escape might be difficult or help unavailable if panic-like symptoms occur, such as public transportation, open spaces, or crowds.
This list is not exhaustive. Effective mental health care is highly personalized. Please consult with Dr. Jessica Moretti for an accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plan.
- Management of ADHD, Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD), & Conduct Disorder in Youth: Multimodal treatment approaches for neurodevelopmental and disruptive behavior disorders, including medication management, behavioral interventions, and family therapy.
- Management of Sleep Disorders (Insomnia, Parasomnias - psychiatric aspects): Pharmacological and behavioral approaches to treating sleep difficulties that are secondary to or co-occurring with psychiatric conditions.
- Psychopharmacological Management & Medication Optimization: Prescribing, monitoring, and adjusting psychotropic medications (e.g., antidepressants, antipsychotics, mood stabilizers, anxiolytics, stimulants) to treat various mental health disorders, focusing on efficacy, tolerability, and minimizing side effects.
- Comprehensive Psychiatric Evaluation of Children & Adolescents: Specialized assessment of developmental, emotional, behavioral, and learning disorders in children and teenagers, involving interviews with the child, parents, and often school input.
- Assessment & Management of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Co-occurring Psychiatric Conditions: Addressing psychiatric conditions such as anxiety, ADHD, or mood disorders that often co-occur in children and adolescents with ASD.
Couples & Family Therapy (psychiatric context): Providing therapy to couples or families to address relationship dynamics, communication problems, and the impact of mental illness on the family system.
Note: This list provides a general overview. Treatment approaches are highly individualized. Please discuss with Dr. Moretti for care relevant to your specific mental health needs.
All psychiatric services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) and relevant psychiatric care guidelines. Contact the clinic or your referring physician regarding new patient intake and referral processes.
Dr. Moretti practices within a mental health clinic situated in the areas near central Sooke, BC. The facility is easily accessible via local public transit, making it convenient for families and young patients from surrounding neighborhoods. The clinic is located close to local points of interest, such as community centers and parks, fostering a welcoming and discreet environment. The building is wheelchair accessible and aims to provide a comfortable and private setting for all patients. Parking is available at or near the facility, with designated accessible spots to ensure ease of access for everyone. The setting emphasizes confidentiality and a supportive atmosphere to help children and adolescents feel safe and at ease during their appointments.
- Are psychiatric consultations and treatments with Moretti, a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist, covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC?
- Medically necessary consultations, diagnostic assessments, and medication management provided by a licensed Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist like Moretti are generally covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC when a referral from a family doctor is in place. Coverage for psychotherapy services provided by a psychiatrist can vary; some provinces cover it, while others may have limitations or it may be part of hospital-based programs. Specific medications may also require special authorization or be subject to formulary restrictions. It's crucial to discuss coverage specifics for therapy or any specialized treatments with Moretti's office or Medical Services Plan (MSP).
- Do I need a referral to see Moretti, a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist?
- Yes, a referral from your family physician or another medical doctor (e.g., a pediatrician for child psychiatry, or an ER physician for urgent assessment) is almost always required to see a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist such as Moretti for services covered by the provincial health plan. Mental health conditions often benefit from initial assessment by a primary care provider who can determine the need for specialist psychiatric care. The referral ensures coordinated care, appropriate triaging, and transfer of relevant medical history.
- Does Moretti offer psychotherapy (talk therapy)?
- Many psychiatrists, including potentially Moretti, are trained in various forms of psychotherapy (talk therapy) and may offer it as part of their treatment approach, either as a standalone treatment or in combination with medication. The specific types of psychotherapy offered can vary (e.g., Cognitive Behavioral Therapy - CBT, psychodynamic therapy, supportive therapy). It's best to inquire directly with Moretti's office or discuss this during your initial consultation to understand her approach to therapy and if it's a service She provides or if She would refer you to another mental health professional like a psychologist or social worker for more intensive or specialized psychotherapy if needed.
- My child/teenager is struggling with significant emotional or behavioral issues. Would they see an Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist like Moretti?
- Yes, as a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist, Moretti specializes in diagnosing and treating mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders in children and teenagers (typically up to age 18). This includes conditions like ADHD, anxiety disorders, depression, OCD, autism spectrum disorder co-occurring issues, and early-onset psychotic disorders. She provides age-appropriate assessments, medication management if needed, and often incorporates family therapy or collaborates with schools.
- How can I prepare for my first appointment with Moretti?
- For your first psychiatric appointment with Moretti, it's helpful to gather some information beforehand. Try to make a list of your main concerns, symptoms (including when they started, how often they occur, and their intensity), and any significant life events or stressors. Bring a list of all current medications (psychiatric and non-psychiatric), including dosages, as well as any past psychiatric medications you've tried and your experience with them. Information about your family history of mental health conditions can also be very useful. Be prepared to discuss your personal history, social situation, and coping strategies. Writing down any questions you have for Moretti can also ensure you get the most out of your consultation.
- When should someone consider a referral to a Psychiatrist like Moretti?
- A referral to a Psychiatrist like Dr. Moretti is typically considered when mental health symptoms are severe, persistent, complex, or not responding adequately to initial treatments provided by a family doctor or therapist. This can include: thoughts of suicide or self-harm; severe depression or mania; psychosis (hallucinations, delusions); debilitating anxiety or panic attacks; complex PTSD; severe OCD; suspected bipolar disorder or schizophrenia; treatment-resistant depression; or when medication management by a specialist is indicated. Psychiatrists are also consulted for diagnostic clarification and comprehensive treatment planning, especially for co-occurring conditions.
- How is confidentiality handled in psychiatric care?
- Confidentiality is a cornerstone of psychiatric care. Information you share with Dr. Moretti and her team is kept private and protected by law and professional ethics. This means your information will not be disclosed to anyone without your explicit consent, except in very specific situations where there is a legal obligation or an immediate risk of serious harm to yourself or others (e.g., imminent risk of suicide or homicide, child abuse, or a court order). Dr. Moretti will typically discuss the limits of confidentiality with you at the beginning of your treatment.
6649 Sooke Rd Unit 3
Sooke, BC V9Z 0A2
Phone: (778) 365-3055 | Fax: (844) 222-6024 | Website: http://psychiatry.ubc.ca/person/jessica-moretti/
The facility is wheelchair accessible and aims to provide a comfortable and private environment for all patients.
Dr. Moretti is a licensed Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) under the Health Professions Act in BC. A referral from a family physician or pediatrician is typically required for consultations with Dr. Moretti for child and adolescent psychiatric services covered by the provincial health plan.
Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/334699/Moretti%2CJessica