Could it be she is too busy to provide therapy and that is why she is suggesting you don't need it? Can you ask to see a different therapist or are they all similarly overburdened?

I think meds often can help with Bipolar. But if meds are needed, meds plus therapy are even better, so don't give up on therapy just because you start taking meds. You can tell your T you want therapy whether or not you also take meds, and ask for a referral to someone who is able to provide therapy if she cannot.

Meds are not within the scope of practice of a therapist so don't put too much stock in the T's advice on this. Wait to see what the pdoc says.

Therapists are qualified to diagnose bipolar. You will also get the opinion of the pdoc when you see him/her, so I don't think a psychologist is a necessary referral here. But if you don't trust this therapist's diagnosing skills, you can always get a second/third opinion.