Postpartum Therapy in California: What You Need to Know
Hey, Shameless Mamas - Let’s Talk about Maternal Mental Health
If you’ve recently searched “postpartum therapy in California,” chances are you’re overwhelmed, exhausted, and looking for answers. You might be asking yourself: Is this normal? Should I feel better by now? Why am I crying when I’m supposed to be happy?
First, take a deep breath: you’re not alone. In fact, you're part of a growing number of mothers who are bravely seeking help—not because they’re broken, but because they care deeply about themselves and their families.
Whether you're battling postpartum depression, navigating birth trauma, or simply feeling off after becoming a mother, postpartum therapy can offer life-changing support. And if you're located anywhere in California, there are powerful, flexible options available to you—including virtual sessions that meet you where you are.
This guide will explain what postpartum therapy is, how to find the right provider in California, and why specialized maternal mental health support matters more than ever.
What Is Postpartum Therapy?
Postpartum therapy is a type of mental health support specifically focused on the emotional, psychological, and physical challenges that can arise after childbirth. Unlike general therapy, it addresses the unique intersections of:
Hormonal shifts
Identity changes
Birth trauma and grief
Parenting stress
Relationship strain
Postpartum depression, anxiety, OCD, and rage
Therapists who specialize in postpartum mental health are trained to recognize the nuances of the fourth trimester and beyond. They understand what it means to be weeping with joy one minute and trembling with anxiety the next.
Why California Mothers Need Postpartum Therapy Now More Than Ever
California is often seen as a progressive, resource-rich state—and yet, maternal mental health challenges persist here, especially in:
High-pressure cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego
Underserved rural areas with few providers
Affluent communities where perfectionism and high-functioning burnout are common
Families navigating immigration, systemic racism, or language barriers
Add in a cost of living crisis, climate anxiety, and limited childcare, and the result is this: even the most resourced mothers in California are struggling. Postpartum therapy is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity for mental well-being.
What Postpartum Therapy in California Can Help With
Postpartum therapy isn't just for depression—though that’s certainly a valid reason to seek help. Other concerns include:
Postpartum Depression or Anxiety
You may feel irritable, numb, or hopeless—not always "sad." Therapy helps you identify symptoms and find personalized relief.
Birth Trauma or Medical PTSD
Whether you had an emergency C-section or felt powerless during labor, trauma therapy can help you reclaim safety in your body and story.
Postpartum Rage or Intrusive Thoughts
If your thoughts scare you or your temper surprises you, you're not alone. Therapy helps normalize and treat these experiences.
Reproductive Loss
Grief after miscarriage, stillbirth, or NICU stays can be invisible but profound. You deserve space to mourn and heal.
Identity Shifts and Relationship Strain
Motherhood changes everything. Therapy supports your transition into this new version of you.
What to Look for in a California Postpartum Therapist
Not all therapists are trained in maternal mental health. When seeking support, look for:
PMH-C certification (Perinatal Mental Health Certified)
Specialization in birth trauma, maternal identity, or perinatal mood disorders
Trauma-informed and culturally responsive care
Someone licensed in California (if doing virtual therapy)
Tip: Many California-based therapists now offer virtual postpartum therapy, so you can access specialized care without a long commute—even during late night nursing sessions.
How to Find Postpartum Therapy in California
You can find a postpartum therapist in California by:
Searching directories like Postpartum Support International’s provider list
Using Psychology Today with filters for “postpartum” and “California”
Asking your OB-GYN, midwife, or doula for referrals
No matter where you are—San Jose, Redding, Pasadena, or a tiny coastal town—you deserve access to care.
Virtual Postpartum Therapy Across California
As a licensed therapist specializing in maternal mental health, I offer virtual therapy to clients across California. My practice, Shameless Mama Wellness, was built for high-achieving, thoughtful women who are struggling behind the scenes.
You can meet with me from the privacy of your home—while breastfeeding, in your car, or in your PJs. No driving. No logistics. Just space to be real.
The Bottom Line: You Deserve to Feel Better
If you’ve been googling “postpartum therapy near me” at 3 a.m. between feedings, just know: the fact that you’re searching means you’re already showing up for yourself.
Motherhood is beautiful—but it’s also brutal. And you don’t have to go through it alone.
Let therapy be the place where you come undone, get held, and then slowly, powerfully, come back together.
Ready to Get Started?
If you’re a new or expecting mom in California, I’d love to support you. I offer:
Specialized postpartum therapy
Birth trauma support
Virtual sessions across the state
Ready to start your healing journey? Contact Shameless Mama Wellness today to schedule a free consultation.
With Warmth and in Solidarity,
Marilyn
I provide a safe haven to discuss the thoughts you keep hidden.
As a Postpartum Therapist in California, I offer many services utilizing evidence-based treatments. Some services at Shameless Mama Wellness include treatment for postpartum depression and postpartum anxiety, birth trauma therapy, fertility counseling, therapy for miscarriage and loss, pregnancy therapy and treatment for NICU PTSD.
