Q. I have a friend whose 16 year old daughter is suffering from bipolar disorder. The daughter is becoming more and more disruptive, but therapists are giving medication to "solve" the problem. Can you guide me to help her locate some facilities - schools, etc., where this young girl may be placed for consistent help, as opposed to perhaps once a week therapy sessions. The daughter is an intelligent young lady, but this disease obviously is affecting her and her family in a devastating manner. I recently read "The Bipolar Child" and it fits this girl to a "T". I realize testing of her is crucial, but where do they look?

 A. I'm sorry but I do not specialize in the treatment of bipolar disorder. Therefore, my knowledge of resources is fairly weak in this area. Your intuition that proper diagnosis and treatment is necessary first before turning to medication to solve a problem is on the mark. A competent clinical psychologist with strong assessment and testing background could help with establishing the diagnosis through psychological testing. Usually personality inventories (MMPI or MAPI Millon Adolescent Personality Inventory) coupled with good projective testing can help clarify the diagnosis. From there, treatment recommendations will be given. Finding professionals that understand and feel competent in treating bipolar disorder (or the diagnosis provided through testing) is crucial. If possible contact your local alliance for the mentally ill (ami) for help with resources. AMI and their national parent NAMI have a great deal of information on bipolar disorder.

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