HometownMindFinding Help for Postpartum Depression in California
Find mental health providers in California who can help with postpartum depression. Postpartum depression is a serious but treatable mood condition that can occur during pregnancy or after birth. It is common and is not a reflection of your ability as a parent. Effective help is available.
Postpartum depression is common and treatable, and it is not a reflection of your ability as a parent. Treatment includes therapy and, when appropriate, medication chosen with pregnancy and breastfeeding in mind. If you have thoughts of harming yourself or your baby, call or text 988 now, or find perinatal providers on HometownMind.
Information current as of June 2026. General education, not medical advice.
Postpartum Depression providers in California
Mental health providers are licensed by state, so your care needs to come from someone licensed in California. These providers practice there and treat a range of conditions, including postpartum depression. Not sure who fits best? Get matched free for a personalized recommendation, or choose a different state.
Monica Palma, NP-C, CNM
Linda Rios, FNP
Noel Brassett, NP
Michelle Brown, RNC, WHCNP, PMHNP
Kendra Foreman, NP
Sandra McKee, PMHNP-BC
Elena Wilson, PMHNP-BC
Tara Valenzuela, PMHNP-BC
Morgan Anderson, PA-C
Adam Arsenault, PMH-NP
Melissa Bregante, RN, PMHNP
Joshua Burgett, NP
Austin Chandler, APRN
Andrea Cook, APRN, PMHNP-BC
Yanique Dias, NP, PMHNP-BC
Zinata Dwumfour, NP
Kehinde Elemuren, NP
Crystal Eze, PMHNP-BC
Rodney Fox, FNP, PMHNP
Sean Leonard, PMHNP
Kathryn Satyukov, PMHNP, DNP
Stacy Lyons, PMHNP-BC, LPC
Shannon McNamara, PMHNP
Albert McNames, APRN
Find postpartum depression providers in another state
Common signs
- Persistent sadness, anxiety, or emptiness after birth
- Difficulty bonding with the baby
- Changes in sleep or appetite beyond normal newborn disruption
- Feeling overwhelmed, guilty, or hopeless
How postpartum depression is treated
Therapy
Counseling tailored to new parents helps with mood, adjustment, and support.
Medication when appropriate
Prescribers experienced in perinatal care can recommend options that consider pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Which provider treats postpartum depression?
If you have thoughts of harming yourself or your baby, seek emergency help or call or text 988 now. Otherwise, choose a provider experienced in perinatal or maternal mental health. Psychiatrists and psychiatric nurse practitioners can prescribe and manage medication, while therapists provide talk therapy such as CBT. Many people work with both.
| Psychiatrist | Psychiatric nurse practitioner | Therapist | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Can prescribe medication | Yes | Yes | No |
| Typical training | Medical degree (MD or DO) plus a psychiatry residency | Graduate nursing degree (MSN or DNP) with psychiatric certification | Master's or doctoral degree in counseling, psychology, or social work |
| Primary focus | Diagnosis and medication management | Diagnosis and medication management | Talk therapy and counseling |
| Often best for | Complex or severe conditions and medication needs | Medication management, frequently with shorter wait times | Talk therapy, coping skills, and ongoing support |
Frequently asked questions
How is postpartum depression different from the baby blues?
The baby blues are mild mood changes that pass within about two weeks of birth. Postpartum depression is more intense and persistent, lasting longer and interfering with daily life and bonding, and it responds well to treatment.
Can I take medication for postpartum depression while breastfeeding?
Often yes. Providers experienced in perinatal care can recommend options that take breastfeeding into account. Discuss the benefits and risks with a provider who knows maternal mental health.
Where can I find perinatal mental health support?
On HometownMind you can find providers experienced in perinatal or maternal mental health, or get matched for free with one suited to your needs.
Authoritative resources
- National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) — US government health information on mental-health conditions
- SAMHSA National Helpline (1-800-662-4357) — Free, confidential, 24/7 treatment referral and information
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline — Call or text 988 in the US for free, confidential crisis support
Other conditions
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