Frequently Asked Questions

How are services provided?

All providers offer sessions through telehealth options, including video calls and phone appointments. In addition, Angelina MacLellan-Muise and Mary Jane Neitz are available to see clients in person at our office located at 78 Euston Street, Charlottetown, on the second floor of the Reactive Health building. Please note that access to the office is via stairs; if mobility is a concern, we can arrange an alternative session via video or phone.

What is the difference between a Psychologist and a Counselling Therapist?

While both Registered Psychologists and Registered Counselling Therapists are highly skilled professionals dedicated to supporting mental health, there are key distinctions in their training, approaches, and scope of practice.

Registered Psychologists are trained in a wide range of psychological theories and therapeutic approaches, often holding advanced degrees. While many psychologists are trained to conduct psychological assessments and make formal diagnoses, not all psychologists focus on assessment. Some specialize in therapy and use their deep understanding of psychological theories to guide interventions, such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), psychodynamic therapy, or other evidence-based methods. If you are seeking a psychological assessment or diagnosis, it's important to confirm that the psychologist you are considering conducts these services, as not all psychologists offer them. Due to their advanced education and specialized training, psychologists generally charge higher fees.

Registered Counselling Therapists, on the other hand, focus primarily on providing talk therapy and supporting individuals through personal growth, emotional well-being, and life challenges. Typically holding a master's degree in counselling or a related field, they are trained in various therapeutic approaches, including mindfulness, solution-focused therapy, and person-centered therapy. Counselling therapists work with clients to address issues like stress, relationship challenges, and coping strategies, though they do not typically conduct formal psychological assessments.

Both professionals play important roles in promoting mental wellness, and the right choice depends on your individual needs. If you are seeking a diagnostic clarity or psychological assessment, a psychologist is likely the best fit; however, it's important to confirm that your psychologist offers these services before booking an initial appointment. If you're looking for therapeutic support to address emotional or relational concerns, either a psychologist or a counselling therapist would be a good fit. Both bring unique expertise to the table and are dedicated to helping you achieve a healthier, more fulfilling life.

How do I know if I need therapy?

If you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or struggling to cope with life's challenges, therapy can be a valuable support. It’s not only for those facing severe mental health issues – anyone can benefit from therapy. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, stress, relationship difficulties, or seeking personal growth, therapy can help you navigate and address these challenges.

Should I do anything before my first session?

Yes, once your Initial Appointment is scheduled and confirmed, you will receive an email containing a link to fill out the "Adult History" form. It is highly recommended that you complete this form promptly as it plays a crucial role in assisting our therapists in preparing for your session. By doing so, you not only help streamline the process but also save valuable time for both yourself and the practitioner at our practice during your initial appointment.

Additionally, once your initial appointment is confirmed, we encourage you to schedule a follow-up session in the JANE system to ensure there is not a long gap between appointments. For individual therapy, we recommend booking a second session approximately two weeks after the initial visit. For couples therapy, each partner should schedule an individual session within two weeks of the first appointment, followed by a couples session within three weeks. These follow-up appointments can always be cancelled or rescheduled if no longer needed, but are intended to help maintain continuity and prevent extended gaps between sessions.

What should I expect during my first session?

The first session is usually focused on assessment. Your therapist will explore your personal history, current concerns, and the reasons you're seeking therapy. They’ll also review confidentiality, discuss your therapy goals, and explain the therapeutic process. This session is an opportunity to get to know each other and begin developing a plan for your treatment moving forward.

How often do I need to come to therapy?

During the initial therapy appointment, after discussing your presenting concerns, your psychologist will carefully assess your individual needs and treatment goals. Collaboratively, a personalized treatment plan will be developed to address your specific challenges. Typically, weekly or bi-weekly sessions are suggested at the start of therapy to ensure consistent progress and support.

What payment options do you accept?

At Angelina MacLellan-Muise Psychological Services, we have streamlined our payment process to be entirely online through our practice management software. We utilize the secure online platform JANE to store credit card information. Clients can securely add their payment details to their account.

Payments Accepted:  Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, as well as Visa Debit & Debit Mastercard.

Insurance Information: A number of private or supplementary health care insurance programs may cover a portion or all of the costs associated with seeing a registered psychologist. It is advisable to consult with your insurance provider or employer to ascertain your eligibility for coverage. We offer direct billing to most major insurance providers.

All fees (including co-payment) are due at the beginning of each appointment (charged to your credit card on file). Fees that are paid out of pocket (i.e., not covered by extended medical insurance plans) may represent a tax-deductible medical expense. 

What is the difference between a psychologist and a psychiatrist?

Psychologists and psychiatrists both work in the field of mental health, but their roles and approaches differ. Psychologists have either a masters and/or doctoral degree in psychology and primarily focus on providing evidence-based therapy to help individuals overcome mental health issues through counselling and behaviour modification. They cannot prescribe medication. Psychiatrists, on the other hand, are medical doctors who specialize in mental health and are able to prescribe medication to help manage mental health conditions. They often use a combination of medication and therapy in their treatment approach. While both professionals play vital roles in mental health care, their specific training and methods of treatment set them apart in the services they provide to clients.

What is evidence-based treatment?

Evidence-based treatment is the foundation of practice at Maclellan-Muise Psychological Services. It involves using therapeutic techniques and interventions that have been researched and proven effective in helping individuals manage psychological symptoms. By staying up to date on the latest research and treatment modalities, we are able to provide clients with effective strategies for addressing their concerns. This approach ensures that clients receive the highest quality of care that is backed by scientific evidence, leading to positive outcomes in their therapy journey.

Is there a cost for report writing?

Yes, it is important to be aware that any documentation requested on your behalf will be charged at a rate of $250.00 per hour for psychologists and $190 for counselling therapists (billed in 15 minute increments). This encompasses items such as letters to educational institutions, employers, submissions to insurance providers, forms to be completed, and more. If a request for a report is initiated by a third party, we have the option to ask the third party to bear the expenses associated with the report. Furthermore, reports will never be drafted for third parties unless we have obtained your consent.

What if I am running late for a session?

Please contact us if you may be late for your appointment. Your therapist will accommodate the delay, but missed time cannot be added. You will be billed for the original session time.