Thinking About Adoption? Start the Process with These Steps

Everyone comes to choose adoption for different reasons, but one common thread amongst all new clients is the anxiety around entering into something so new and unknown. There is so much information out on the internet, in the media, and running through social conversation that it’s hard to know where to start and what to believe. With anything, the best place to start is at the beginning, and then just take it step by step.

Step 1: Understand The Adoption Process

Well, what is the first step? Research. Most of you have already been there and quite possibly found this blog post in doing your research. While the internet can be extremely overwhelming, knowing what to search for can also be very helpful in educating you about the basics of adoption.

When searching, be as specific as possible in your search to find what you are looking for. Try to stick with reputable sites that are providing factual information. Use multiple sites to compare the information you are finding and confirm its accuracy. There are plenty of reliable adoption websites (including ours!) that have a lot of helpful information to educate prospective adoptive parents – take a minute to look around and don’t hesitate to reach out to whoever operates the site if you have any questions.

Step 2: Find Reputable Adoption Agencies in Your Area

Next? Contact a few reliable agencies in your area. Make every effort to meet them in person and if that’s not possible, via zoom or another similar platform. (Take a look at one of our older blog posts with a list of questions to ask when trying to find the right agency for you: https://haven-adoptions.com/finding-the-right-domestic-adoption-agency-for-you/)

Getting the answers to your most pressing questions will help you not only compare agency to agency, but it will also help you get a feel for the agency on the other end and if this is an agency you believe you could trust throughout the process.

Also, speak with family and friends whom you know have adopted. Who did they use? What tips do they have to share in navigating the adoption world? Personal referrals can be the best way to find the right agency for you.

Step 3: Further Research the Adoption Agencies

Once you have narrowed down the agencies you are interested in, complete a Google search on each of them so you can read their reviews and find out other important information on the agency. Ask for references from past clients- if possible both adoptive clients and biological parent clients.

We always recommend families work with a fully licensed agency, one that will provide significant support for both you and the birth family. Adoption is an incredibly hard process for everyone involved, and you and the birth family deserve the utmost support, respect, and care during your adoption process.

Wishing you all the best on your adoption journey!