The perinatal period brings unique emotional and psychological challenges. Postpartum depression, miscarriage, loss, stress, illness and other physical changes may overwhelm your ability to cope and may place you at risk for depression, anxiety, grief or other emotional responses that disrupt daily living.
Our team is dedicated to supporting individuals through compassionate and evidence-based care. WMHP Outpatient Clinic provides mental health care for pregnant, postpartum individuals, and for those who may be planning a pregnancy or facing infertility.
This unique specialized program is prepared to meet the urgent needs of a high-risk population with expert care.
Conditions We Treat
We provide expert evaluation and treatment for a range of perinatal mental health conditions, including but not limited to:
Depression – persistent feelings of sadness and hopelessness, fatigue, difficulty concentrating that develop during pregnancy or after childbirth.Anxiety – excessive worry or panic attacks that interfere with daily life.
Bipolar Disorder – mood instability, including depressive and manic episode, which may be triggered or worsened by pregnancy and postpartum hormonal changes.
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) – intrusive, destressing thoughts and compulsive behaviors related to the safety and well-being of baby.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) – emotional distress following traumatic birth experiences, pregnancy complications, or previous trauma.
Adjustment Disorders – emotional or behavioral symptoms caused by the transition to motherhood, life stressors, or unexpected changes.
Our approach
We offer a range of treatment options tailored to each individual’s unique needs, including:
- Comprehensive psychiatric evaluations
- Medication management with a focus on pregnancy and breastfeeding safety.
- Essential resources and helpful information to help address stressors.
Providers
Dr. Shona Ray-Griffith, M.D., is an Associate Professor with primary appointment in the Department of Psychiatry and secondary appointment in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology. A psychiatrist with extensive experience in clinical care, research, education, and leadership.
As the Ambulatory Director of the Women’s Mental Health Program, Dr. Ray-Griffith helps guide and shape life-changing care for individuals facing complex mental health challenges.
A leading expert in perinatal psychiatry, she is dedicated to serving the needs of pregnant and postpartum individuals with a variety of mental illness.
In addition to clinical work, Dr. Ray-Griffith leads an extensive research portfolio focused on mental illness, perinatal substance uses disorders and chronic pain. Her work is nationally recognized and widely published, contributing to best practices in clinical and academic settings.Her dedication has been recognized with numerous awards, reflecting a wide-reaching impact on patients, peers and the broader medical community.
Accepting New Patients – Yes
Provides Second Opinion – Yes
Patient Type – Adults
Conditions Diagnosed or Treated by Dr. Ray-Griffith
Alcohol Use Disorder
Anxiety Disorder
Bipolar Disorder
Depression
Opioid Use disorder
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Postpartum Depression
Substance Abuse
New patients can make an appointment by contacting the clinic directly.
Existing patients also have the option of requesting an appointment online through UAMS Health MyChart.
Dr. Hannah Williams, M.D., is an Associate Professor in the Department of Psychiatry. She specializes in evaluating and treating individuals during pre-conception, pregnancy, and postpartum periods, addressing a wide range of psychiatric disorders that can arise at these critical times.
As one of the few perinatal psychiatrists in the state, Dr. Williams offers invaluable, specialized expertise in delivering safe and effective psychiatric care to highly vulnerable populations. She receives referrals from across Arkansas, providing expert care for high-risk and complex psychiatric cases during pregnancy and the postpartum period.
Her clinical work not only improves the well-being of the individuals she treats but also has a profound impact on the mother-infant dyad and the broader family unit, leading to lasting, positive outcomes.
Dr. Williams is also a dedicated educator, working closely with psychiatry residents to provide hands-on training, mentorship, and clinical insight. Her contributions to education help shape the next generation of reproductive mental health providers.
Accepting New Patients – Yes
Provides Second Opinion – Yes
Patient Type – Adults
Conditions Diagnosed or Treated by Dr. Williams
Alcohol Use Disorder
Anxiety Disorder
Bipolar Disorder
Depression
Opioid Use disorder
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Postpartum Depression
Substance Abuse
New patients can make an appointment by contacting the clinic directly.
Existing patients also have the option of requesting an appointment online through UAMS Health MyChart.