Choosing an Adoption Agency

Weighing Your Options About Choosing an Adoption Agency

Birthparents

  • Counseling for birthparents and extended families before and after the birth of the child
  • Hospital visitation and coordination of services with hospital staff
  • Referrals for housing and coordination of medical services
  • Interim care in a loving home for the child, if desired
  • Development of an agreement defining the level of openness in the adoption
  • Birthparent support groups
  • Post-adoption counseling
  • Assistance with the legal aspects of termination of parental rights
  • Counseling services for designated or attorney-facilitated (also known as private or independent) adoption

Adoptive Families
  • Family Assessment (home study)
  • Comprehensive networking support
  • Education to prepare for adoptive parenthood
  • Support throughout the placement process
  • Development of an agreement defining the level of openness in the adoption
  • Assistance with legal requirements of adoption
  • Education and assistance regarding interstate procedures if the child is born in another state
  • Post-adoption visits/coordination with the court regarding finalization of the adoption
  • Facilitation of communication between adoptive families and birthparents, as agreed upon
  • Services for adoptive families in designated or attorney-facilitated (also known as private or independent) adoptions