Dr. Margaret Jaya MacSween – Psychiatrist | Kitchener, ON

Dr. Margaret Jaya MacSween 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 Kitchener, ON, 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 a commitment to delivering patient-centered, evidence-based mental health care. The practice adheres to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring high-quality and ethical treatment. The clinic offers a confidential and respectful environment, fostering a safe space for patients to explore their concerns and work towards recovery and well-being.

Dr. MacSween graduated with a Medical Degree from Dalhousie University Faculty of Medicine in Canada. With over 12 years of experience as a Psychiatrist since 2012, she has developed a deep expertise in managing complex mental health conditions. She is recognized as a RCPSC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), demonstrating her commitment to ongoing professional development and excellence in psychiatric care. Her extensive training equips her to address a broad spectrum of mental health issues with confidence and compassion.

Her clinical philosophy emphasizes a collaborative approach, prioritizing patient empowerment through education and understanding. Dr. MacSween is dedicated to providing personalized care tailored to each individual's needs, utilizing a combination of evidence-based treatments, including psychotherapy and medication management. She believes in building a therapeutic alliance based on trust, respect, and open communication. Serving the community of Kitchener, she provides care in English and is committed to supporting her patients' journey towards mental health and well-being.

Dr. Margaret MacSween provides assessment and treatment for a wide spectrum of mental health conditions, including:

Substance-Related & Addictive Disorders (Dual Diagnosis)

• Dual Diagnosis (Co-occurring Substance Use Disorder & Other Mental Illness): The simultaneous presence of a substance use disorder and one or more other psychiatric disorders (e.g., depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia).
• Stimulant Use Disorder (e.g., Cocaine, Amphetamines): Problematic pattern of stimulant use leading to impairment or distress.

Schizophrenia Spectrum & Other Psychotic Disorders

• Schizophrenia: A serious mental disorder affecting how a person thinks, feels, and behaves, often involving delusions, hallucinations, disorganized speech, and impaired functioning.
• 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.
• Schizoaffective Disorder: A condition that includes symptoms of both schizophrenia (like hallucinations or delusions) and a mood disorder (like depression or mania).

Anxiety, OCD & Trauma-Related Disorders

• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): Characterized by unwanted, intrusive thoughts or images (obsessions) and repetitive, ritualistic behaviors (compulsions) performed to reduce anxiety.
• Social Anxiety Disorder (Social Phobia): Intense fear or anxiety of social situations where one might be scrutinized by others, leading to avoidance.
• Specific Phobias (e.g., heights, animals, injections): Intense, irrational fear of a specific object or situation that poses little or no actual danger.

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

• 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.
• Group Therapy (various focuses, e.g., mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, DBT skills): Facilitating therapeutic groups where individuals with similar concerns can share experiences, learn coping strategies, and receive mutual support under the guidance of a therapist.
• Second Opinion Consultations for Complex Psychiatric Cases: Providing expert second opinions on challenging diagnoses, treatment-resistant conditions, or complex psychopharmacological management plans.
• Psychodynamic Psychotherapy / Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy: Exploratory therapy focused on understanding how past experiences and unconscious patterns influence current feelings, thoughts, and behaviors.
• 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.
• 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.

Note: This list provides a general overview. Treatment approaches are highly individualized. Please discuss with Dr. MacSween 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 Ontario (CPSO) and relevant psychiatric care guidelines. Contact the clinic or your referring physician regarding new patient intake and referral processes.

Located within a reputable mental health clinic in Downtown Kitchener, in the Cedar Hill neighborhood, Dr. MacSween’s practice is situated in a welcoming and discreet setting. The facility is conveniently accessible via public transit, including Grand River Transit (GRT) buses and the ION Light Rail, providing easy access for patients across the region. The clinic is wheelchair accessible and aims to provide a comfortable and private environment for all patients. Parking options include metered street parking and nearby public lots, ensuring convenience for in-person visits. The practice is committed to maintaining a discreet, welcoming atmosphere that respects patient confidentiality and promotes a positive mental health experience.

Are psychiatric consultations and treatments with MacSween, a Psychiatrist, covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?

Medically necessary consultations, diagnostic assessments, and medication management provided by a licensed Psychiatrist like MacSween are generally covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON 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 MacSween's office or Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP).

Do I need a referral to see MacSween, 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 MacSween 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 MacSween offer psychotherapy (talk therapy)?

Many psychiatrists, including potentially MacSween, are trained in various forms of psychotherapy (talk therapy) and may offer it as a part of their treatment approach, either independently or combined with medication management. 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 MacSween's office or discuss during your initial consultation to understand her approach to therapy and if She provides this service or if She would refer you to another mental health professional like a psychologist or social worker for more specialized psychotherapy if needed.

What does a Psychiatrist like MacSween specialize in?

A Psychiatrist is a medical doctor (MD) with specialized training in psychiatry, focusing on diagnosing, treating, and preventing mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders. Unlike psychologists, psychiatrists can prescribe medication. She assesses, diagnoses, and manages mental health conditions through medication, psychotherapy, and other interventions. MacSween is trained to evaluate both the mental and physical aspects of psychological problems, providing a comprehensive approach to care.

What is the main difference between a Psychiatrist like MacSween and a Psychologist?

The primary difference is that a Psychiatrist, such as MacSween, is a medical doctor (MD) who has completed medical school and specialized residency training in psychiatry. As physicians, they can diagnose mental health conditions, prescribe and manage psychotropic medications, and perform medical tests to rule out physical causes of psychiatric symptoms. Psychologists typically hold doctoral degrees (PhD or PsyD) in psychology and are trained in psychological assessment and psychotherapy. They generally cannot prescribe medication in Canada, but often work collaboratively with psychiatrists or family physicians.

835 King St E
Kitchener, ON N2G 2M7

Phone: (519) 749-4300

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

Dr. MacSween is a licensed Psychiatrist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) under the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 and Medicine Act, 1991 in ON. A referral from a family physician or another medical doctor is typically required for consultations with Dr. MacSween 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/MacSween-Margaret-Jaya/0299195-105184