- The first step of the process is to talk with an adoption support counselor who can answer all of your questions and help you decide if adoption is right for you and your baby. Our specialists are available via e-mail or phone at 1-888-505-ADOPT to answer all of your questions. You may also fill out the information sheet that is available by clicking on the Contact Us link and someone will get right back to you.
- You will receive information and materials to fill out about yourself. This information will be used confidentially and will help match you with the perfect adoptive family for your child. If you have any questions about the information, an adoption support counselor can help guide you through it.
- You will then work with your adoption support counselor to create your adoption plan. It is important that you feel comfortable with your decision and have all of your needs met. Listed below are components of your adoption plan.
- Discuss your needs (medical, living expenses, housing, pregnancy expenses) with your adoption support counselor.
- Select an adoptive family. You can view family profiles to select the perfect family or you can ask your adoption specialist to help select the family for you.
- Decide on the type of contact you want with the adoptive family before, during and after the birth of your baby, such as phone calls, visits, pictures and letter updates.
- Create a hospital plan for your stay during the delivery of your baby. You decide how much contact you want with your baby after the birth, who can visit you and your baby in the hospital, and how much contact the adoptive family has with you and your baby during this time.
- You have worked with your adoption support counselor to get everything ready and now it is time to place the baby with the adoptive family. In most situations, the baby can be placed directly with the adoptive parent(s). This is usually the most difficult time of the process. Remember why you are choosing adoption and know that your feelings are normal. Your adoption support counselor will help you through this time and make sure that you feel comfortable with everything.
- After the baby is born, you will sign the legal documents to place your baby for adoption. Ask your adoption lawyer for more details about the process in your state, as adoption laws vary from state to state. Your adoption support counselor will make sure that you understand everything as it is happening.
- It is normal to feel sadness and many other emotions after the adoption. It is important that you stay in touch with your adoption support counselor so he or she can help you through this time.
