Identified Adoption

An identified adoption is one in which the adoptive parents do a self-help search to identify an expectant mother who is considering adoption for her child. Identifying an expectant mother does not necessarily mean that all information is shared. Christian Family Services can mediate the relationship so that parties can remain anonymous, if desired.

The self-help search may be done in many ways. Adoptive parents have told their friends, family, and colleagues, so that everyone who knows them knows that they wish to adopt a child. Many referrals have been made through clergy, family, and friends. Another way is to advertise in newspapers or online in hopes that a birthmother or her family will read about them and respond.

Books and articles written on this subject and adoption support groups offer support and information for families who have received referrals in this way.

Regardless of how you identify your expectant mother, you can have the full services of our agency. These services include providing counseling and support for the birthmother, both before and after her pregnancy, and conducting your home study and post-placement visits. We can also serve as a mediator for your relationship. If we mediate an identified adoption for you, our fees are reduced. Identified adoption places most of the responsibility on the adoptive parents. It is a lot of work. However, the waiting time is much shorter, and the cost is lower. Perhaps the greatest benefit of an identified adoption is the beautiful relationship that can be formed between the adoptive parents and the birthparents