Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum Support Groups in California
Expecting a baby? Feeling a little (or very) anxious about the upcoming birth? During this 6-week, in-person group, we will use mind-body relaxation and confidence-boosting techniques from EMDR therapy to reduce your birth-related anxiety and help you feel peaceful and empowered during your birthing process. The weekly sessions will begin on Tuesday, 4/2/24 at 6pm and end on Tuesday, 5/7/24. The cost is $225 TOTAL for all 6 sessions. To secure your spot, send an email to connect@gentlepeopletherapy.com or fill out the interest form here www.gentlepeopletherapy.com/services to begin the registration.
Hosted by Jessica Faith Achugbue
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PMH-C, EMDR
Verified Verified
Group meets in Long Beach, CA 90807
Difficult experiences from the past - or that happen during your pregnancy, birth, or postpartum period - make it hard to find rest and enjoyment in this life season.
Expecting, birthing, or parenting a baby brings the underlying "stuff" to the surface. You might be noticing tensed muscles, an aching head, an upset stomach, or racing thoughts about the most awful things that have happened or that possibly could happen. Maybe you feel exhausted and drained all day long but lie awake at night with your heart pounding, too anxious to fall asleep. Maybe you're yearning to bond with your little one but feeling like you're blocked by a wall. Too overwhelmed, too worried, too tangled up in the scary thoughts, and in too much pain to be present. But this chapter doesn't have to feel this way!
This free, virtual group provides support for NICU moms during and after a NICU stay. Having a baby stay in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) is a stressful experience full of emotions for new moms. Feelings of sadness, fear, confusion, guilt, and anger are common reactions when your baby is born early or born needing medical care. These feelings make sense and you’re not alone - here, you can connect with and be supported by other moms who know what it’s like.
Hosted by Molly Vasa Bertolucci - Poppy Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Group meets in Los Alamitos, CA 90720
I am trained in EMDR for reproductive trauma (like pregnancy loss, birth trauma, NICU stays, and breastfeeding difficulties).
Hi, I'm Molly. I'm a maternal mental health therapist and the founder of Poppy Therapy, where I help new moms and moms who want to find meaning and courage in all of the big transitions, emotions, and decisions that come with motherhood. If you had a traumatic birth, are recovering from a NICU stay, have a child with food allergies, or finding yourself facing depression and anxiety, this is probably NOT what you expected. I’m here to help you find confidence, calm, and connection in motherhood so you can BLOOM. I am in-network with Aetna insurance.
Hosted by Kelly Aguirre
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Group meets in Pasadena, CA 91107
Hey Mama, you don't have to feel so alone in motherhood! The Mom Group in an online group of moms with children ages 2 to 10 years old that want connection and support in motherhood. Led by a therapist (who's also a mom), the group covers topics such as boundaries, mental load, body image, tantrum, parenting strategies, making mom friends, etc. Email me at info@mmptherapy.com to be put on the waitlist for the next group!
Hosted by Melissa Morais Parr | Happy Moms Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Group meets in Carlsbad, CA 92013
I specialize in working with mothers in the postpartum and early parenting years, including those struggling with postpartum depression, anxiety, and past trauma.
The postpartum and early parenting years can be a lot. Perhaps you didn't have the birth experience you wanted and/or have been struggling with all the changes during postpartum, including lack of sleep and time to yourself, relationship strains, how to feed your baby, figuring out boundaries with extended family, etc. Those early months and years after having your child can be a lot to sort through and manage. If you are struggling with anxiety, stress, depression, and/or your relationships, you are not alone and my services can help. You can feel happier in your life and as a mom.
This will be an 8 week closed group designed to help support those who have suffered pregnancy and/ or infant loss.
Hosted by Courtney Whetstone
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Group meets in Lake Elsinore, CA 92532
I specialize in pregnancy and infant loss and couples.
I work with clients in a caring and compassionate manner, and I tailor the treatment to fit their needs and goals. I became a therapist because I want to help people who are struggling to change their lives.You are the most important part of your treatment - it needs to relate to your life in a way that works for you. I will challenge you to overcome the challenges you see in your life with support and positive feedback. My approach is working collaboratively toward a happier life for you by helping you make positive changes, including increasing your self-awareness and those barriers that have come between you and your goals
Edelweiss Individual and Family Therapy specializes in offering mental health counseling services to adults in different phases of adulthood who are dealing with a range of challenges, including trauma, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, stress related to life changes, grief, burnout, and relationship conflicts. Additionally, they provide support for perinatal mood disorders. Emphasizing their commitment to diversity, they have a special focus on serving immigrant individuals, couples, and families, along with members of the LGBTQI community.
Hosted by Saba Montazerian
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Group meets in Newport Beach, CA 92660
I specialize in working with new moms experiencing perinatal mood disorders.
As an experienced Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), in Newport Beach, CA with over 10+ years of diverse background in outpatient, crisis counseling, and Therapeutic-Day Treatment, I am passionate about helping individuals, couples, and families navigate life's challenges and create meaningful change. My passion is to work with young adult women in various stages of life facing Life transition issues, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, grief, school & work burnout, and conflicts within relationships.
Positive Parenting is support in non-violent communication and responsive parenting. Birth Circle is support for processing traumatic birth experiences. New Parent support helps couples transition into family life.
Hosted by Kristy Crownover
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Group meets in Beverly Hills, CA 90212
The prenatal/ postpartum period in a woman's life is wonderful & challenging! Support is the number one factor that protects new mothers & babies during this precious time.
I am passionate about helping couples reconnect. Sometimes couples can become disconnected and that can be very painful. Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy is a scientifically proven method that brings couples together in new ways that lead to long-lasting secure attachment. In a safe space, partners can explore their feelings and behaviors in order to understand themselves and each other at a much deeper level. You can escape your negative interactive cycle and create a new beautiful dance with your partner. I would like to help you get there! Please call me for a free consultation in Beverly Hills, Downey or Torrance.
Join this community of mamas as we create space to share the joys and challenges of becoming a mother including, birth stories, relationships, sex, mom guilt, development, & other aspects of motherhood. Together we will build skills to increase your confidence as a mom and quiet the noise. You will be better able to tune into your innate capacity to mother, identify your parenting values, and connect with others going through the same transition.
Hosted by Christine Rivera
Psychologist, PsyD, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Group meets in La Crescenta, CA 91214
I specialize in working with perinatal mental health, moms, partners, and children (0-5 years).
Navigating motherhood and everything it comes with can often feel overwhelming. From balancing the needs of both you and your child at the same time to exploring the person you are becoming. Having a safe space to process your transformation into motherhood, the challenges, and the joys serves to support you in connecting to yourself, your purpose, and your authenticity. Sometimes there are feelings of sadness, overwhelm, or just plain feeling like you aren't "good enough". We have all been there! I come from a place of compassion and understanding, ready to explore what parenthood is, to heal, and to grow.
A support group for women who are struggling to conceive and are feeling alone or hopeless. Led by a licensed clinical psychologist with advanced training and certification in perinatal mental health, this group is a safe and supportive place to find hope and healing as you navigate fertility challenges and find your own unique path to parenthood!
Hosted by Dr. Carissa Gustafson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Group meets in Pasadena, CA 91105
Since becoming a mother, I have also developed a special interest in perinatal mental health and have sought advanced training and perinatal mental health certification (PMH-C) from Postpartum Support International.
Do you feel like you are not enough? Is it as though you are perpetually falling short? Is each day becoming increasingly difficult just to get through? You are not alone. As the author of Reclaim Your Life, I specialize in acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), which helps people learn skills, such as mindfulness and compassion, to handle difficult thoughts and feelings so they can find freedom from suffering and engage in their life.
Being a new mom is always hard, and feelings of anxiety, depression or panic can make it even more difficult. If you’re a new mom trying to figure out who you are and how to thrive, you are not alone! This 6-week therapeutic support group welcomes mothers to a safe, non-judgmental space to learn and process together. We will cover topics including coping skills, self-care, connecting with your partner and how to navigate this life-changing time. Open to new moms 0-12 months postpartum. Babies welcome! In-person and virtual groups available.
Hosted by Samantha Schaefer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Group meets in Lafayette, CA 94549
If you've ever felt like you should be happier, doing more or coping better, I can help. I work with adults and teens who are feeling stuck in depression and anxiety, but are ready to move forward and make sustainable changes. I have specialized training in perinatal mental health, including postpartum depression and anxiety, and practice trauma-informed treatment, including EMDR. We'll work together to rediscover your authentic sense of self, learn tools that help you navigate challenges, and live your life more fully. You don’t have to face hard things alone.
Motherhood doesn't have to be lonely! Join New Mom Crew: a weekly drop-in support group for perinatal mamas (conception up through approximately one year after birth). Enjoy a private space to share challenges, receive peer support and psychoeducation, make connections with fellow moms, and learn about resources and services available to you in your community. You don’t have to go it alone, we’d love to have you join our Crew! Visit www.millennialmamatherapy.com for more information!
Hosted by Lauren Puliz | Millennial Mama Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Group meets in Orangevale, CA 95662
Welcome mama! I love working with millennial moms who feel lost after bringing home their baby. Book with me now by clicking on my website! We spend a TON of time preparing for pregnancy and birth, only to be smacked in the face by the rollercoaster of postpartum. Night sweats? Unexpected tears and rage? Suddenly hate your beloved dog? I've been there, I promise it's normal. Together, we will navigate your individual journey through motherhood - calming the storm, fostering resilience, and developing self-compassion as we go. My goal: for you to know that you ARE a good enough mom, and you ARE the right mom for your baby.
This support group welcomes mothers who are struggling with Postpartum Depression and/or Anxiety to a safe, confidential and non-judgmental space to learn and process together. Benefits of the group include: * coping tools, self care and healing * your changing identity, self-esteem * communicating with your partner * attachment with your baby * developing a mama tribe Babies are welcome too, of course!
These tools provide a robust framework, allowing me to meet you where you are and address a wide range of issues including anxiety, depression, PTSD, as well as challenges associated with the perinatal period.
Are you someone who appears to have everything under control, yet feels a sense of emptiness within? It’s not uncommon for high achievers to experience moments of confusion or isolation, even when life seems outwardly promising. You may excel at work and maintain a decent home life, but if you find yourself questioning your direction, feeling stagnation in your relationships, or battling persistent anxiety that hinders your motivation, know that you’re not alone. Seeking support from a psychologist can help you untangle these complex feelings, rediscover your sense of purpose, and foster deeper connections with yourself and others.
This group offers an opportunity to connect with others undergoing fertility treatments while working through the emotions that accompany secondary infertility. This group can help patients learn coping strategies, solve problems, and manage stress while receiving support from fellow group members. Topics include: * Stress of infertility * Pregnancy loss * Grief * Deciding between alternative treatment options * Exploring family building possibilities * Using third party assistance
Hosted by Maria Rivas-Wolf
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Group meets in San Carlos, CA 94070
Whether you are struggling with infertility, pregnancy loss, or just don't feel like yourself since becoming a parent, therapy can help you learn coping strategies, process negative emotions, problem-solve and communicate more clearly.
I work collaboratively with clients, drawing on their expertise, strengths and abilities to help transition life's challenges successfully. By increasing awareness of thought, behavior and relationship patterns that may be impeding your success or interfering with your happiness, we can work together to find alternatives. I can help you find the tools necessary to make lasting changes in your relationship with yourself, and to others. My experience includes work with adults coping with issues such as: Anxiety, Depression, Life transitions, Parenting, Relationship Issues, Stress Management. My specialities include Reproductive and Maternal Mental Health.
Join other mamas and babies in this safe, supportive space to process the transition to motherhood. This group has an emphasis on self-care and mindfulness. No prior experience necessary. This group will help you learn somatic tools for regulating your nervous system, process your birth experience, learn simple, effective self-care practices and help you experience more joy and less stress in motherhood. This is a drop-in group; we meet in-person every Wednesday at 1pm at our office in El Dorado Hills. Cost is $35 a session. Register on our website!
Hosted by The Holistic Counseling Center, Kim Burris LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Group meets in El Dorado Hills, CA 95762
Life's too short to stay stuck in survival mode. If you're tired of feeling burdened by your past, battling anxiety, or stuck in an endless cycle of stress and overwhelm, I can help. Me and my team work with adults, teens, moms and couples, and specialize in humans struggling with: Anxiety, Depression, Postpartum (PPD/PPA), Trauma, Relationships, Self-Esteem, Stress, and Life Purpose. Modalities include: Internal Family Systems (IFS), Depth Therapy, Hypnotherapy, CBT, Somatic Therapy and Psychodynamic Therapy. We can help you unearth the root cause of your struggles, find relief from your pain, and start rebuilding your life.
This will be a support group offered at The Women’s Hospital at MemorialCare Saddleback Medical Center in Laguna Hills, CA, for women who are in the postpartum stage of motherhood. It will be free to join. Due to COVID-19, the launch has been delayed. This will be a virtual group soon.
Hosted by Melissa Wright
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Group meets in Laguna Hills, CA 92653
I completed the PSI and 2020 Mom Professional Maternal Mental Health Certificate Training and the Advanced Perinatal Mental Health Certification Program.
I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist providing individual, couples, and/or group therapy. I maintain specialties in maternal mental health, trauma, and OCD. My specialty modalities include: EMDR and ERP. I maintain a private practice in Aliso Viejo, CA. I have served as clinical director and a primary therapist for various treatment programs in Southern California specializing in addiction, eating disorders, and mental illness.
Discover 5 essential tools to find your calm as a stressed, overworked mom. Learn how tools to instantly relax and ground yourself amidst chaos. Unlock simple breathwork techniques to regulate emotions cultivating inner peace. Connect with nature, even with a busy schedule, restoring mental well-being. Support your nervous system through self-care practices like meditation and yoga. Tap into energy work practices to release stress and rebalance your mind-body connection. Join our group tailored for overwhelmed moms, where we'll dive deep and provide support - to Find Your Calm as a Mom and regain control over any situation!
Hosted by Catherine O'Brien
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, PPS
Verified Verified
Group meets in Sacramento, CA 95816
I specialize in helping couples prepare for the transition from pregnancy to parenthood by managing overwhelm, creating more ease and deepening connection.
Do you feel like all the other new parents seem to have it all together? Do you get easily irritated, anxious, and overwhelmed at the simplest things? Do you feel guilty because you have such a beautiful and good baby, but still feel like crap? Do you find yourself asking WHAT IS WRONG WITH ME? Having a baby changes everything! Even when you have longed for a baby the fatigue and exhaustion have the better of you. Your relationship has changed with your partner and not always for the better.
We are a group of caring professionals who believe treatment should be a collaboration that includes your values, the latest research and our expertise. We are committed to helping you and your family members make lasting change in your lives.
Hosted by Auti Scolman
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Verified Verified
Group meets in San Diego, CA 92110
Hi folks! I believe therapy is a collaborative process built on trust, authenticity, and unconditional positive regard. I work with adults, teens, and kids navigating anxiety and ocd, depression, perinatal/ postpartum mental health, and life stresses like transitions and relationships. I’m here to listen to your story with an empathetic ear and to help create a clear path forward toward a life of meaning and alignment. My natural warmth and compassion cultivate a comfortable environment in which you can share freely knowing we will work through challenges together.
The Postpartum Wellness Circle is a caring and supportive community specifically for mothers who have encountered postpartum depression or are managing the complexities of postpartum adjustment. It offers a safe environment where mothers can openly share their experiences and discover strategies to enhance their mental and emotional health during this period.
Hosted by Dr. Reihaneh Mahdavi
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Group meets in San Diego, CA 92122
Whether you’re an individual, a couple or a family looking for help – my therapy sessions are designed to assist you and your loved ones in the healing process. As a licensed marriage and family therapist with a specialization in maternal wellness, women's issues and postpartum depression, I support individuals and couples tap into a more empowered versions of themselves as parents and partners. Healing can be a beautiful journey, not just a destination.
Love being a new mom more......
Join other moms and babies in an opportunity for ongoing support and connection!
Joining a group can help to answer questions, gain perspective, nurture friendships, reduce isolation, and enjoy interacting with your little one even more!
The groups meet once a week for 6 weeks for a facilitated session with me.
Hosted by Sherry S. Nafeh
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Group meets in Beverly Hills, CA 90211
Discover support, compassion, and empowerment during your perinatal journey.
I wanted to take a moment to express my genuine excitement about the prospect of working together and becoming an integral part of your journey. Over the years, I've had the privilege of immersing myself as a Perinatal mental health and a Gottman-trained couples therapist. It has been an incredible journey filled with valuable experiences and countless learning opportunities. But what truly fuels my passion is the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of individuals like you. Ultimately, my greatest reward lies in witnessing your accomplishments, and seeing your dreams come to fruition.
A group for single mothers by choice. Find understanding and nurture growth in an accepting community. Take an hour every week to re-focus on yourself as a whole person and learn effective strategies and practical tools to be more present, improve relationships, create better habits and manage emotions. Topics are open-ended and group-directed with skill building opportunities woven throughout. We meet virtually Wednesdays from 8 pm - 9 pm via telehealth, the group fee per session is $75. Group is a month-long financial commitment
Hosted by Felicia Andrews
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Group meets in Culver City, CA 90232
I’m also a perinatal mood and anxiety specialist for all stages of the reproductive journey and beyond.
Are you struggling with overthinking, perfectionism or self-doubt? Have you noticed that you’re just not enjoying life very much and your relationships (including with yourself) are suffering? Life is hard enough, add overwhelming emotions, relationship problems and difficulty coping with daily stressors and it can all become too much. If you find you’re going through the motions or pretending to be okay when you're not, maybe you've wondered if there’s a better way. I’d like to help you make meaningful change now for a better life, using practical and effective strategies.
See more therapy options for California
Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum Support Groups
What are the most effective ways to address pregnancy, prenatal, and postpartum concerns?
The most effective way to address pregnancy, prenatal, and postpartum concerns is by finding a therapist who has prior experience helping other patients overcome the challenge being faced. For example, a marriage and family therapist may have experience helping couples adjust to their new relationship dynamic. An anxiety specialist may have experience helping with phobias or illness anxiety related to the child’s health. A depression specialist may have experience treating postpartum depression.
When should I seek treatment for prenatal or postpartum concerns?
Pregnancy and the postpartum period involve intense physical and mental changes; a degree of upset and instability is normal. However, if these changes impair daily functioning, it may be time to seek help. This distinction is pertinent for postpartum depression: A period of teariness, irritability, and distress is difficult but normal in the one to two weeks after childbirth (sometimes called the “baby blues.”) But if feelings of sadness and hopelessness persist beyond that period, the person should seek treatment.
How do I manage worries during pregnancy or the postnatal period?
A therapist can help patients develop the tools they need to manage anxieties during or after pregnancy. Cognitive behavioral therapy can help people identify and reframe harmful patterns of thought, and change their behaviors. Other techniques and skills can allow people to develop acceptance, psychological flexibility, self-compassion, communication skills, and more.
Are there specific medications for postpartum depression?
In 2019, the FDA approved the first medication designed to treat postpartum depression. The medication is called brexanolone and is delivered intravenously by a medical professional over the course of a few days. However, typical antidepressants, which are more accessible, can also treat postpartum depression. The disorder is often best treated through a combination of medication and therapy.