Research summary
Positive mental health during childhood and the teenage years can lead to a healthy, happy and productive life—and help prevent problems like depression and anxiety. As Canada Research Chair in Youth Clinical Psychological Science, Dr. Marlene Moretti is focusing on four different areas to better understand youth psychology and improve mental health outcomes.
She and her research team are evaluating the safety, accessibility and effectiveness of mental health programs for culturally and gender diverse families and youth. They are also supporting and evaluating kinship and foster parents in the context of providing sensitive care and promoting youth mental health. In addition, they are comparing accessibility, uptake and treatment in virtual versus in-person treatment programs. Finally, they are investigating risk and protective factors related to youth mental health, treatment outcomes and trajectories, and treatment mechanisms. Ultimately, their work will support mental health strategies for young people.