Bipolar disorder involves shifts in mood and energy that go beyond normal ups and downs. Periods of depression can alternate with times of unusually high energy, little need for sleep, racing thoughts, or impulsive decisions. Those swings can strain jobs, finances, and relationships, and they're exhausting for everyone involved.
With the right treatment, most people with bipolar disorder get to a steady place and stay there. Our board-certified psychiatric providers offer evaluation and long-term care across Washington State.
Signs that may point to bipolar disorder
- Stretches of very high energy, needing little sleep, or feeling unstoppable
- Racing thoughts, fast speech, or taking on too many projects at once
- Impulsive spending or risky decisions you regret later
- Periods of deep depression in between
- Antidepressants that made you feel worse, wired, or agitated
Getting the diagnosis right
Bipolar disorder is often mistaken for depression or ADHD, which can lead to treatment that doesn't help or even makes things worse. We take a careful history of your moods over time, sleep patterns, family history, and how you've responded to past medications. Input from someone who knows you well can also help, if you're comfortable with that.
Treatment and monitoring
Treatment usually centers on mood stabilizing medication. Some of these medications need regular lab work, and we'll coordinate that with you. Steady follow up matters with bipolar disorder, so we keep a consistent schedule and adjust the plan as life changes.
How care works with us
- Start with an evaluation. Your first visit is a full psychiatric evaluation, about an hour, by secure video or in person in Lakewood when available.
- Build a plan together. You'll hear what we think is going on, your options, and the reasoning behind any recommendation.
- Ongoing follow up. If medication is part of your plan, we monitor and adjust it through regular medication management visits.
- Work with your therapist. We don't provide therapy, but many of our patients see a therapist, and we're glad to coordinate with yours.
If you are in crisis or thinking about harming yourself, call or text 988 (Suicide and Crisis Lifeline) or call 911. We are an outpatient practice and can't provide emergency care.
Frequently asked questions
Can bipolar disorder be treated by telehealth?
Yes. Evaluation and ongoing medication management work well by secure video for most patients. If lab monitoring is needed, we'll help you arrange it locally.
Will I need lab work?
Some mood stabilizers require periodic blood tests to check levels and safety. We'll explain what's needed for your specific medication.
What if I was diagnosed with depression but antidepressants made things worse?
That's worth a closer look. It can be a sign of bipolar disorder, and a careful evaluation can help find a treatment that fits.
Is treatment covered by insurance?
Most major plans cover it. See our accepted insurance.
Ready to get started?
Book online in a few minutes, call us, or leave your details below and our team will call you to schedule. Telehealth anywhere in Washington State. Most major insurance accepted.
Request received.
Our team will reach out within one business day to get you scheduled.