[Lagirl816]

Hi, for a mental health leave in California (either FMLA or CFRA, what type of medical provider needs to provide documentation? For example, a primary care physician or a psychiatrist? For anyone who has done this or is familiar with the process, I'd appreciate advice.

[CANDC]

Welcome to MSF LAgirl816 - sorry to hear you are feeling challenged right now. I found this helpful info page that may be of some help. A Guide To Mental Health Leave Of Absence California

I would think if you are under the care of a mental health professional, then that would probably be adequate but I would advise reading the page above which is too detailed to quote in full here and contact your human resource office if you are applying through your employer.

CANDC

[If you want me to see your reply to this post please include @CANDC in your message - not in requoting my message and not the first word of your message]

[Tart Cherry Jam]

Both the PCP and specialists can sign paperwork for FMLA/CFRA. There is no separate mental health leave under FMLA. The provider does not have to disclose your diagnosis to the employer. In fact, the provider is specifically warned not to disclose the dx without your express consent. HR does not need to know that the leave is for mental health reasons. It is your choice whether to tell the HR.

The person who should sign the paperwork is the person who is treating you for the condition(s) necessitating the leave. If it is your PCP, then the PCP, but if it is the psychiatrist, then your PCP will likely defer to the psychiatrist and refuse to sign the paperwork because the PCP is not intimately familiar with the details of your case and cannot state what the prognosis is, for how long you need the leave, etc.

Also, the provider who signs the paperwork needs to state when you last saw said provider for the condition necessitating the leave. This is another reason you should only ask the person actively treating you right now.