Treatment For Bipolar Disorder in Washington
Compassionate, Evidence-Based Care for Your Mental Health
How Bipolar is Treated at Constellations Mental Health Services
Step 1: Comprehensive Evaluation
Your treatment begins with a one-on-one consultation with Alexandra Pales, ARNP, PMHNP-BC. This includes:
- A clinical interview to understand your history and symptoms
- Screening tools to assess the severity of depression
- A discussion of treatment goals and preferences
Step 2: Personalized Treatment Plan
We carefully consider and personalize medical interventions based on your history, goals, and side effect concerns. These may include:
Mood Stabilizers: Lithium, Valproate, Lamotrigine (Lamictal), Carbamazepine, Oxcarbazepine (Trileptal)
Atypical Antipsychotics: Quetiapine (Seroquel), Olanzapine (Zyprexa), Risperidone, Aripiprazole (Abilify), Lurasidone (Latuda)
Antidepressants: Occasionally used, always in combination with a mood stabilizer to reduce risk of triggering mania
Step 3: Ongoing Support & Adjustments
- Follow-ups are scheduled every 2-4 weeks to monitor progress.
- Once stability is achieved, appointments are spaced every 8-12 weeks for continued support.
- Medication adjustments or therapy recommendations can be made as needed.
Working With Us
- Personalized & Patient-Centered Care – Your treatment is designed with you, for you—we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all approaches.
- Convenient & Private Telehealth Appointments – Receive care from the comfort of your home using a secure online platform. Accessible via computer, tablet, or phone.
- Expert-Led Care by Alexandra Pales, ARNP, PMHNP-BC – Board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with experience in emergency medicine, ICU, and psychiatric care.
- Medication & Holistic Options Available – We provide both medication-based and holistic treatment strategies, tailoring care to your unique needs.
Insurance & Pricing
We accept Premera, Regence, Aetna, HMA, Asuris, and Tricare.
- Initial consultation (60 min): $300
- Follow-up visits (30 min): $200
Insurance may cover medications. We can assist in navigating this process.
Request a Consultation
We will get back to you within 24 business hours
Understanding Bipolar
Bipolar Disorder is a mental health condition marked by extreme mood swings, including episodes of mania and depression. While many associate bipolar disorder with high energy or euphoria, the reality is more complex—most individuals with bipolar disorder spend about 90% of their time in depressive states, and many manic episodes are experienced as irritability, not elation.
The condition typically emerges between ages 15 and 25, though symptoms can appear earlier or later. With the right treatment and support, people with bipolar disorder can lead stable, meaningful lives. If you’re ready to explore a care plan built around your needs, we’re here to help.
Signs and Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder
Manic Episode Symptoms
- Increased energy and hyperactivity
- Inflated self-esteem or sense of invincibility
- Decreased need for sleep
- Racing thoughts or rapid speech
- Impulsive or risky behavior (e.g., spending, driving, sex)
- Irritability or short temper
- Decreased appetite
- Heightened sensory experience (e.g., colors seem brighter, music feels more intense)
Depressive Episode Symptoms
- Persistent sadness, hopelessness, or numbness
- Low energy or fatigue
- Sleep changes (too much or too little)
- Changes in appetite or weight
- Difficulty focusing or making decisions
- Loss of interest in daily activities
- Suicidal thoughts or behaviors
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the first appointment?
60 minutes. We take time to review your full psychiatric history, past treatments, and current concerns.
How long are follow-ups?
30 minutes. These sessions include medication management and check-ins on lifestyle, mood tracking, and overall stability.
What if I’m not ready to try medication?
That’s okay. We’ll focus on lifestyle and natural supports first and revisit medications later if needed. You set the pace of your care.
What if I’m concerned about side effects?
We talk through your specific concerns and choose medications with the lowest risk for unwanted effects like sleepiness, libido changes, or weight gain.
Do you treat all types of bipolar disorder?
Yes. We work with patients experiencing Bipolar I, Bipolar II, and Cyclothymia, as well as those who aren’t yet diagnosed but suspect they may have mood swings outside the typical range.
What if I’m in a crisis or experiencing suicidal thoughts?
If you’re in crisis, please call 988 or go to your nearest emergency room. We do not provide emergency or crisis support services.
Where do appointments take place?
All care is provided via secure, HIPAA-compliant telehealth. You’ll need a private space and a device with video/audio capability.
