Dr. Laila Tewfik-Moussa – Psychiatrist | Chilliwack, BC

Dr. Laila Tewfik-Moussa is a dedicated Psychiatrist specializing in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of a wide range of mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders in adults, and may see older adolescents for certain conditions. Practicing at a mental health clinic or hospital department in Chilliwack, BC, she is a key member of the local mental healthcare community. She provides comprehensive psychiatric care, including diagnostic assessment, medication management, and psychotherapeutic interventions for a variety of conditions such as mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and psychotic disorders. Her approach is rooted in compassion and understanding, ensuring that each patient receives personalized and respectful care. The practice is committed to fostering a safe environment where patients can explore their concerns openly and work collaboratively towards recovery and well-being.

Dr. Tewfik-Moussa graduated with a Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MB ChB) from the University of Alexandria in Egypt. She holds specialty certification as a Psychiatrist and is licensed to practice in British Columbia under the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). Her credentials include certifications from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, reflecting her commitment to maintaining high standards of psychiatric care.

Her clinical philosophy emphasizes collaborative care, patient empowerment through education and understanding, and evidence-based treatment approaches. Dr. Tewfik-Moussa strives to build a therapeutic alliance with her patients based on trust, respect, and open communication. She also speaks Arabic in addition to English, which helps facilitate communication with a broader range of patients in the diverse community of Chilliwack. Her dedication is to support her patients' mental health journeys with compassion and professionalism.

Dr. Laila Tewfik-Moussa provides assessment and treatment for a wide spectrum of mental health conditions, including:

Schizophrenia Spectrum & Other Psychotic Disorders

• Substance/Medication-Induced Psychotic Disorder: Psychotic symptoms (hallucinations or delusions) that develop during or soon after substance intoxication or withdrawal or after exposure to a medication.
• Delusional Disorder: Characterized by one or more firmly held false beliefs (delusions) that persist for at least one month, without other prominent symptoms of schizophrenia.

Personality Disorders

• Avoidant Personality Disorder: Characterized by social inhibition, feelings of inadequacy, and hypersensitivity to negative evaluation.
• Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD): A pattern of disregarding or violating the rights of others, often involving deceitfulness, impulsivity, irritability, and lack of remorse.

Anxiety, OCD & Trauma-Related Disorders

• Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): Excessive, persistent worry and anxiety about various everyday life events or activities, often difficult to control.
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Develops after experiencing or witnessing a terrifying event, involving symptoms like flashbacks, nightmares, severe anxiety, and uncontrollable thoughts about the event.

This list is not exhaustive. Effective mental health care is highly personalized. Please consult with Dr. Laila Tewfik-Moussa for an accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plan.

• Treatment of Psychotic Disorders (Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective Disorder) with Antipsychotics: Management of schizophrenia spectrum and other psychotic disorders using first and second-generation antipsychotic medications, including long-acting injectables where appropriate.
• Second Opinion Consultations for Complex Psychiatric Cases: Providing expert second opinions on challenging diagnoses, treatment-resistant conditions, or complex psychopharmacological management plans.
• Neuropsychiatric Evaluation & Cognitive Assessment (Initial Screening/Referral): Initial assessment of cognitive function and neuropsychiatric symptoms, with referral for detailed neuropsychological testing if indicated, to differentiate psychiatric from neurological conditions.
• Treatment of Mood Disorders (Depression, Bipolar Disorder) with Medication: Pharmacological management of major depressive disorder, dysthymia, bipolar I & II disorder, and cyclothymia, utilizing evidence-based medication strategies.
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): A structured, goal-oriented psychotherapy that helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors contributing to mental health problems like depression, anxiety, and OCD.
• Comprehensive Psychiatric Assessment & Diagnostic Evaluation: In-depth clinical interview to assess mental health status, including review of psychiatric and medical history, family history, psychosocial factors, symptom patterns, and formulation of a multiaxial diagnosis according to DSM/ICD criteria.

Note: This list provides a general overview. Treatment approaches are highly individualized. Please discuss with Dr. Tewfik-Moussa 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. Tewfik-Moussa practices at a well-established mental health facility located in the heart of Chilliwack's Downtown, Central neighborhood. The facility is conveniently situated near Downtown Chilliwack and Cottonwood Mall, accessible via the Chilliwack/Agassiz-Harrison Transit System (BC Transit). The clinic is wheelchair accessible and aims to provide a comfortable and private environment for all patients. Parking is available at or near the facility, with designated accessible spots to ensure ease of access. The setting offers a discreet, welcoming atmosphere designed to foster trust and confidentiality, supporting patients in their mental health journey.

Are psychiatric consultations and treatments with Tewfik-Moussa, a Psychiatrist, covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC?

Medically necessary consultations, diagnostic assessments, and medication management provided by a licensed Psychiatrist like Tewfik-Moussa 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 Tewfik-Moussa's office or Medical Services Plan (MSP).

Do I need a referral to see Tewfik-Moussa, a 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 Psychiatrist such as Tewfik-Moussa 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.

What if I experience side effects from medication prescribed by Tewfik-Moussa?

It's common for psychotropic medications to have potential side effects, especially when starting a new medication or adjusting a dose. Tewfik-Moussa will discuss common side effects to watch for. If you experience side effects, it's very important to communicate this to Tewfik-Moussa or her office promptly. Do not stop taking your medication suddenly unless instructed to do so by Tewfik-Moussa, as this can sometimes cause withdrawal symptoms or a worsening of your condition. Tewfik-Moussa can help manage side effects by adjusting the dosage, switching to a different medication, or suggesting strategies to mitigate them.

Does Tewfik-Moussa offer psychotherapy (talk therapy)?

Many psychiatrists, including potentially Tewfik-Moussa, 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 Tewfik-Moussa'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.

What is the main difference between a Psychiatrist like Tewfik-Moussa and a Psychologist?

The main difference is that a Psychiatrist, like Tewfik-Moussa, is a medical doctor (MD) who has completed medical school and then specialized residency training in psychiatry. Because they are physicians, psychiatrists can diagnose mental health conditions, prescribe and manage psychotropic medications, and provide various forms of psychotherapy. They can also order medical tests to rule out physical causes of psychiatric symptoms. A Psychologist typically has a doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) in psychology and is trained in psychological assessment, diagnosis, and providing psychotherapy (talk therapy). Psychologists generally cannot prescribe medication in Canada, though they often work closely with psychiatrists or family doctors who do.

45657 Princess Ave
Chilliwack, BC V2P 2B7

Phone: (604) 792-4909 | Fax: (604) 392-0800

The facility is wheelchair accessible and aims to provide a comfortable and private environment for all patients.

Dr. Tewfik-Moussa is a licensed 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 another medical doctor is typically required for consultations with Dr. Tewfik-Moussa for 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/312899/Tewfik-Moussa%2CLaila