Sanam Shamtobi, PhD, PMH-C
Welcome to my practice. I started The Mother Hood because I believe every mother deserves care that actually meets her where she is — not where she's supposed to be.
I'm a Licensed Clinical Psychologist in California (License #PSY30910) and the founder of The Mother Hood. I earned my doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Alliant International University, and I completed my Perinatal Mental Health Certification (PMH-C) through Postpartum Support International — the gold standard credential for clinicians who specialize in maternal mental health.
I specialize in perinatal mental health, couple's work, anxiety, identity transitions, and helping people move through that particular feeling of being stuck. With over a decade of experience, I combine strong evidence-based care with something harder to teach — a real understanding of what it feels like to be in the thick of it.
My work is directive and grounded, and it holds you at the center. I want you to feel like you can organize all the thoughts in your head, label the emotions that don't have names yet, and move — without it feeling pressured or prescribed. I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Family Systems work, and I'm trained in modalities specifically designed for the perinatal period.
Whether you and your partner are thinking about starting a family, adjusting to new motherhood, grieving what you've lost, or just trying to feel like yourself again — there is space for you here. No masks, no shame, no pressure to have it all figured out.
Outside the therapy room, Dr. Shamtobi has been a guest on podcasts and has contributed to publications on postpartum depression, maternal identity, and perinatal anxiety.
Credentials
PhD, Clinical Psychology — Alliant International University
PMH-C (Perinatal Mental Health Certified) — Postpartum Support International