Hi motherofthree,
It sure sounds like you've got a great deal to manage in your family. I hope you're doing your best to take care of yourself, too. Remember what they say on airplanes before take off: you've got to put on your own oxygen first, before helping anyone else. And I'm glad you're working to get the family into therapy. That's an excellent idea.

I looked up Depakote in the drug reference I use on my PDA, Epocrates. Psychosis and hallucinations are listed as possible serious reactions to the medication. Use of this med in pediatric populations requires extra caution. It's possible that the psychotic symptoms could be related to the Depakote, especially if those symptoms didn't start til after that was begun. Also, I'm concerned that someone with a diagnosis of bipolar disorder, particularly a child, is taking Zoloft, an antidepressant. Folks with bipolar are more likely to respond to SSRI's with increased mania than those with unipolar depression. So it's possible that Zoloft if contributing to her symptoms by increasing her mania symptoms. As someone above stated already, I think, psychotic symptoms can come with mania.

I realize this suggestion would mean another task/burden, but you might want to consider getting a second opinion or other consultation about her medications. Or talk to her doc if the doc is receptive about these symptoms, when they started, and if they could be related to the meds. I can understand your concern about appearing to be a "know it all" mom, but again as I think someone above said, these days consumers are becoming more and more educated about health and healthcare. I think doctors are getting used to this, and many appreciate it. If you approach it within the frame that you (and your daughter) and the doc are equal partners in treating her, and show respect for what he brings, I think he or she is likely to show respect for what you bring to the team. And if not, it's another data point to consider when deciding if you want to continue with this doc or not. That framework is a requirement for me when working with docs. If they can't work WITH me versus working AT me, I don't tend to go back to them.

Good luck. I'm glad you reached out here. It's a great place for support and information.

Take care,

gg