Choosing an Adoption Agency as a Birth Mother

Deciding to place your baby for adoption is a difficult choice that brings on plenty of new decisions with it. You may wonder: Which adoption agency will I trust with placing my child?  You may search adoption agencies near you, but not know how to decipher what is and isn’t legitimate. You may feel like you have a few great options, but haven’t figured out how to decide between them.

Choosing an adoption agency can be confusing, but there are many great qualities and necessities to look out for that can simplify the decision for you. At Adoption Choices of New York, we can provide you with the tools to figure out your preferences. We do all we can to support you, the birth mother, on your adoption journey.

Adoption Agency Green Flags

We’ve all heard of red flags, but there are green flags (or great signs) to look out for that indicate a good and legitimate adoption agency. If you see these, know that you’re working with an agency that is doing the right thing.

• No charge for placing your baby for adoption
• The agency connects you with an adoption specialist
• The agency connects you with an adoption lawyer
• The agency and adoptive family support your financial needs where applicable
• The agency educates you on your adoption choices. (For example, a closed adoption is not absolutely necessary if you prefer an open or semi-open adoption and are open to future contact with your child or adoptive family.) 
• Welcoming of all types of families: LGBT+, single-parent households, transracial households included and regardless of citizenship
• Provides connections to supportive resources, such as support groups or mental or financial help
• Has a non-judgmental & compassionate approach to the birth mother
• Home study is done by the agency, including background checks and child protective checks, so you can feel confident your child is placed with a safe family
• The agency supports your choices and never pressures you into a decision
• You feel comfortable when communicating with the agency

According to childwelfare.gov, you may also check with the State Licensing Specialist where the agency is located to find out what the agency’s standing is. Choosing an adoption agency is made simple when you know the green flags to look out for and you’re able to check in on the quality of the agency.

Ask Questions Before You Decide

Remember that you can always speak with the agency before you decide to pick them. You have the opportunity to ask direct questions about the adoption process and support system. For example, you might wonder how the agency screens adoptive families. You might wonder if the agency educates adoptive families at all during the process. You’ll be able to ask any questions that will make you feel confident in your decision.

The agency should be able to provide you with the information you are looking for because they’ll be looking to help you out. Getting a feel for what the staff is like is a great way to narrow your options down.  

Depending on the type of adoption, you might be communicating with the agency for a while, so it’s important that you feel as if the agency treats you with kindness, respect and professionalism. You don’t want to feel pressured into any choices or dismissed when asking questions. The agency should be transparent with you as you speak with them about the adoption process. 

Set Yourself on the Path to Success

Remember, choosing an adoption agency that’s professional, welcoming and legitimate can set you on the path to success. You’ll create an adoption plan that will support your wants and needs. At Adoption Choices of New York, we do everything in our power to meet your adoption plan and find you the perfect adoptive family. 

Adoption Choices of New York is available to assist with your adoption plan. Call us, text us, email us; we are here for you!
Contact Us 24/7: 800-505-8592 (Phone) | 518-478-8420 | Click to Email

Meet the Author: Tara Giuffre has always loved reading and writing and grew up in the worlds of Narnia, Harry Potter and A Series of Unfortunate Events. Taking this passion for stories, she received a degree from Rutgers University in Journalism & Media. Besides writing, she likes long walks on the beach, spending time with her family (and her cat, Sansa), and baking the perfect loaf of bread. 

She enjoys sharing vital information about adoption and birth mothers choosing adoption to families making important choices for their future family!