As part of the Psychiatric Research Institute’s commitment to expanding access to specialized care across Arkansas, the Fayetteville branch of the Women’s Mental Health program brings expertise to Northwest Arkansas.
This location, based at the UAMS Fayetteville Psychiatric Clinic, offers focused mental health care for individuals during pregnancy, postpartum, and those who are planning to become pregnant or facing infertility. The clinic is home to the region’s only fellowship-trained specialist in perinatal and reproductive psychiatry, ensuring that patients receive truly rare and essential 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 and 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 often 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 information to help address stressors.
Our program works closely with licensed therapists, fostering a supportive environment for lasting progress and well-being.
Provider
Dr. Erin Jefferson, M.D., is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences. She specializes in reproductive psychiatry with a clinical focus on the mental health needs of individuals during pregnancy, postpartum, and beyond. Her work addresses unique complex psychiatric presentations in perinatal populations in the Northwest Arkansas area.
Dr. Jefferson completed both her General Psychiatry Residency and Women’s Mental Health Fellowship at UAMS. As co-creator and leader of the Wellness and Residents (WAR) initiative, she has championed system-level improvements in resident mental health and well-being. Her dedication to wellness, advocacy, and interprofessional collaboration has shaped institutional culture and trainee support systems across the state.
As a passionate educator and mentor, Dr. Jefferson works closely with medical students and residents, guiding scholarly projects and providing didactic teaching on topics including perinatal depression, reproductive psychiatry emergencies, and the psychiatric impacts of childbearing. Her academic interests intersect clinical care, advocacy, and education.
Accepting New Patients – Yes
Provides Second Opinion – Yes
Patient Type – Adults
Appointments
We accept new patients who are pregnant, up to 12 months postpartum, considering becoming pregnant or facing infertility.
The Women’s Mental Health Program is a self-referral clinic. Although the Psychiatric Research Institute does not require a referral for this clinic, some insurance providers require a referral for specialty care. Please check with your insurance provider before requesting an appointment.
We offer both in-person and telemedicine appointments for your convenience.
What should I bring to the appointment?
For your first appointment, please bring your photo ID and insurance card. You should also bring any medical records you can provide, including slides or test results from other clinics.
For future appointments, please provide updated medical and insurance information.
Please arrive 20 minutes before your scheduled appointment to allow time to check in and any necessary paperwork.
How do I request a prescription refill or contact a nurse from the clinic?
It is preferable to request a prescription refill during your scheduled appointment. If refills are needed at other times, there are two options:
- Make a request online through MyChart.
- Call the clinic directly.
Contact Information
Phone number
(479) 713-8350
Hours
Monday – Friday 8 a.m. – 4.30 p.m.
Mailing address
3425 N. Futrall Drive,
Fayetteville, AR 72703
If you are in need of urgent or emergency care, call 911 or go to the emergency department at your local hospital.