Post adoption Placement Birth Mother Support Missouri

Post-Placement Counseling and Birth Mother Support

November 29, 2021 Adoption Choices of Missouri

Post-Placement Counseling and Birth Mother Support

The adoption process can be a longstanding process that takes excessive time and attention. As the birth mother, though you are putting your baby up for adoption, you might form a bond with your unborn child. As a mother, you are carrying your child for nine months, and during that time, you feel your baby kicking, moving, and more. At times you might speak to the baby, which doctors have claimed babies can hear even when in the womb. It is amazing, and over the course of the adoption, you might be questioning your decision to put your baby up for adoption. But, you know that you can’t provide your child with the life and luxury they deserve including you probably have little to no support. Even though you have a bond with your baby, you want not to be selfish and go along with the adoption instead of ending it. That is noble, we at will say, as a private adoption agency, we want to be honest about the struggles you may endure due to such. While pregnant, we can provide you support if you choose to utilize our adoption services, but those around you should do the same. Including family, friends, and possibly a lover if you have one. To add on, you may suffer from mental strains due to your child’s adoption, and we definitely provide help for such. Our goal is to have your adoption go smoothly and you to be mentally healthy once your baby is no longer in your care.

Why Do I Feel Depressed After My Baby is Now in the Custody of Their Adoptive Parents?

We have witnessed this happen to multiple birth mothers that have put their babies up for adoption. You are not the only one and shouldn’t feel left out or like the only one. To explain what you are going through, it is called post-placement depression, which is when as a mother, you feel a sense of regret and low self-esteem due to putting your baby up for adoption. Now that the baby is no longer in your care, you feel like you gave up on your baby, and you feel extremely depressed. Adoption Choices of Missouri wants you to know that you did not give up on your baby at all. You provided them with a better life due to the circumstances of your own life. The baby wasn’t planned, and instead of seeking termination, which we would not judge you for, you decided to keep the child. Just know your baby is thriving and having a great life that you gave them and will embark on a great journey with the necessary resources! As an adoption agency, we offer therapy with expenses covered in response to the mental health struggles. Know you can come to us at any point because we know such struggles can develop right after your child is within the custody of their adoptive parents. Or, it can be months or years later, and we will still be present. Never hesitate just because you feel embarrassed about struggling mentally. Many people misconstrue that pain can only be physical, but mental health is just as important and affects millions each year, including birth mothers.

What Are Ways I Can Be Supported By My Family After My Adoption Process is Over?

Families play a major role in the progression of someone’s mental state, so know when you are around them, make sure there is nothing but a positive aura around. But, there are multiple ways your family and friends can support you.

They can attend your therapy session with you to have an understanding of the way you feel more thoroughly.
During their free time as friends and family, they can regularly seek to talk to you and listen to your issues besides attending therapy sessions.
When present, they should reassure you that you did not give up on your baby just as much as we would do as your adoption agency.
They can understand the adoption process and its delicate nature by doing research of their own.
To add on, when you receive contact from your baby’s adoptive family, they can be present. Such a time can be sentimental and evolve in your emotions being affected again. Having someone there that you can lean on and speak to would be amazing.

If You Are Seeking Post-Placement Counseling, We Are Here to Help

As a licensed adoption agency in Missouri, we are here to assist you as a birth mother and build families. We understand that you might be hesitant due to the stigma surrounding the term adoption in general. But, we are trying to end that said stigma and show people adoption is a beautiful process. If you are adamant about putting your unborn baby up for adoption, you can contact us through a phone call, text, or message us through our portal. We will get back in contact with you as soon as possible with our 24 hours a day service and open seven days a week.

Adoption Choices of Missouri serves birth parents statewide and beyond, please call us or text us to learn more! Call us toll-free at 877-903-4488 or, in Missouri call or text us at 816-527-9800

Meet the Author: Imani Agbionu is a recent graduate from George Mason University, earning her Bachelor of Science in Marketing. With a history in writing for her former university’s online publication, Her Campus, she aspires to become a successful journalist who can provide for herself and her family. She is from Washington, DC, where she has lived her whole life, but one day wants to move to experience and call another state home. Her mother is from Washington, DC, and her father is from Nigeria, part of the Igbo tribe. As an introvert, she loves streaming platforms, with her favorites being HBO Max, Netflix, and Disney+. Unfortunately, she can’t pick one due to all playing a vital role in her life on a daily basis. She enjoys reading, with her favorite book being The Shining by Stephen King, which she sees as unusual since she is a fearful person that avoids horror at all costs. Listening to music is a vital mechanism that helps her stay calm and deal with her anxiety at times. As an inspiring Journalist, she likes to write about a plethora of topics that some may look at as controversial, but she believes in staying true to herself. She doesn’t mind having conversations with people as long as opinions are being respected.

Who Can Help Me When Giving My Baby Up for Adoption?

November 26, 2021 Adoption Choices of Missouri

Who Can Help Me When Giving My Baby Up for Adoption?

Are you pregnant and considering adoption? Not sure what to do? Then giving a baby up for adoption is always a great option. Adoption Choices of Missouri offers several choices. Financial assistance, medical costs, and a place to live are among the options available. In addition, Missouri has multiple agencies that provide help.

Pregnant Considering Adoption

For many women, an unwanted pregnancy is stressful. Regardless of age, giving up your baby for adoption can be the best choice for you and your child. Although, you might wonder what are your options when it comes down to adoption? You, as a birth mother, get to decide how the adoption process will go. If you need help with your decisions about the adoption plans, then Adoption Choices of Missouri will be here to help you. You are in charge of deciding how the adoption will go. Adoption Choices of Missouri will be there for you every step of the way in your adoption process. You have complete authority over the adoption of your child.

Missouri’s Private Adoption Agencies

Private adoptions occur when you want to put your baby up for adoption and choose an adoptive family. This agency will assist you in meeting the adoptive family, completing the legal papers, and completing the adoption process. It will also take care of the state of Missouri’s adoption requirements. Also, our private adoption agencies in Missouri will support you and provide financial security. There are many benefits, such as many adoptive families to choose from and 24/7 help for birth mothers.

Adoption Lawyer vs. Adoption Mediator

Professionals that specialize in the legal aspects of adoption are known as adoption lawyers. It is their responsibility to protect the legal rights of all parties concerned. All adoptions involve legal completion, and you will have to deal with an attorney at some point.

If you need help to ensure all legal stages and paperwork are completed, an adoption attorney may be ideal. An adoption agency may be a better option if you need help with financial support, counseling, finding the best family, and resources to get through your pregnancy and adoption.

Adoption Choices of Missouri serves birth parents statewide and beyond. Please call us or text us to learn more! Call us toll-free at 877-903-4488 or, in Missouri, call or text us at 816-527-9800

Meet the Author: Auroura Warner is a Florida resident that is a current student at Southern New Hampshire University. She is aiming for a Bachelor’s degree in Communication with a Concentration in Professional Writing. Auroura enjoys writing and assisting others. Aurora also loves to read books, spend a lot of time on the computer, sketch, and draw.

Birth Mother Blog

What is the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA), and Why is it Important?

November 24, 2021 Adoption Choices of Missouri

What is the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA), and Why is it Important?

Unplanned pregnancies can be scary, and figuring out how to care for your baby may seem like a daunting task. Being an Indian mother adds an additional layer of fear to the process since preserving Native culture and heritage may seem impossible through the means of adoption. Fortunately, according to the United States Department of the Interior, a Federal Law known as the Indian Child Welfare Act was passed in 1902 in order to protect children who are born to a mother who is a member of an Indian Tribe. This law, which is fully recognized by Adoptions Choices of Missouri, is in place to keep these children within their unique tribal community and seeks to place adopted children in homes that will allow them to grow up in the culture they were born into.

If I’m an Indian Mother, What Would This Mean For Me if I Chose the Route of Adoption?

The ICWA will ensure that your baby is placed into a home within your tribe, so you don’t need to worry about your child growing up in a setting that doesn’t reflect their heritage. This law is in place to prevent the removal of Indian babies from their familial ties to their Tribe, which was observed in decades past. Making the decision to give your baby to an adoptive family is difficult enough without the added stress of possible tribal abandonment. Thanks to this law, the added layer of fear that you may face during your pregnancy can be lifted, and as you consider adoption, you can make a decision without the concern of your child’s separation from their heritage.

Are There Any Additional Steps in the Adoption Process that I Will Have to Take?

Most of your adoption process will align with our typical adoption process at Adoptions Choices of Missouri. Your first step will be to contact us. We will do our best to answer all your questions and provide you with any assistance you may want in making your adoption decision. If you choose to go the route of adoption, your next step will be to schedule an initial meeting with a Birth Parent Counselor. Following this, you will be provided with the appropriate paperwork, and you will be asked to provide proof of pregnancy.

Afterward, you will be asked to find a doctor, and the matching process will commence. You will then be given different profiles of families for your baby to be adopted by. Under the ICWA, you will get to choose from families within your tribe that will raise up your child in the culture it belongs to. 48 hours after your baby’s birth, it will leave the hospital with the adoptive family, and you will give your final word of consent. We will provide emotional support and counseling services for you post-birth as we know this process can be difficult to process. We will also work with you to provide you with any financial support or housing needs throughout the process. In order for your child to remain under the protection of the ICWA, you will need to work with the Missouri State Court to ensure that your final adoption decree is submitted to the Bureau of Indian Affairs within 30 days of the adoption. In this decree, you must include:

Name and birth date of the child
Tribal affiliation
Names and addresses of biological and adoptive parents
Name and contact information for an adoption agency in Missouri
Signed affidavit

If My Baby is Kept Within My Tribe, Will I Still Be Able to Be Present in Their Life?

There is no one set method for adoption. You have the option of choosing open adoption, which would allow you to share names, phone numbers, and contact information with the adoptive family. You can even meet in person with your baby’s adoptive family and keep in contact with them before and after the birth of your child. Through open adoption, you could possibly have in-person visits with your child if you come to an agreement to do so with your child’s adoptive family. It’s important to remember that just because you choose to place your baby in an adoptive family, you don’t have to be removed from their life. If you are an Indian mother, the ICWA allows you to remain a member of your child’s tribal family, which may eliminate some concern over losing touch with your child post-adoption.

So, How Should the Indian Child Welfare Act Guide my Decision-Making Process as an Indian Mother?

We don’t want to pressure you into making any decisions regarding the life of your baby. However, if you are a member of a Native Tribe, understanding the implications of the ICWA may bring about a sense of relief over any concerns you may have regarding your child’s separation from their tribal culture. At Adoptions Choices of Missouri, we are eager to assist you in the adoption process and will act in alignment with the ICWA when it comes to placing your baby in a new home. You shouldn’t have to deal with the possibility of your child being sent to a home that doesn’t reflect your heritage, and thanks to the ICWA, you don’t have to. For any additional questions or concerns you may have regarding your unplanned pregnancy, contact us at Adoption Choices of Missouri. We will be available to assist you 24/7 — all you need to do is reach out.

Adoption Choices of Missouri serves birth parents statewide and beyond, please call us or text us to learn more! Call us toll-free at 877-903-4488 or, in Missouri call or text us at 816-527-9800

Meet the author: Kyla’s life has been filled with adventure and transition – both good and difficult. She loves to take on challenges head-on and lead an organized and balanced life. She’s passionate about many different areas and loves how writing gives her the flexibility to engage in research of almost every field of study imaginable. She grew up very involved in theater and music and continues to use her free time to play the piano and sing. However, she is also very interested in how the natural world works and takes any chance she has to spend the day away from crowds, enveloped in the seclusion of nature. Growing up in the Philippines, she’s had some unique experiences that have shaped her worldview and given her a deeper understanding and appreciation for different cultures. She gets excited about research papers, completed to-do lists, and her morning coffee.

Birth Mother Blog

What is a Semi-Open Adoption and How can Adoption Agencies in Missouri Help?

November 23, 2021 Adoption Choices of Missouri

What is a Semi-Open Adoption and How can Adoption Agencies in Missouri Help?

Your upcoming adoption has made you learn a lot of information you never knew with questions about every step. In a sea of information, it is easy to get confused about what is what or you may become overwhelmed with all the options. At Adoption Choices of Missouri, we understand that the most important choices you make will be who you choose to adopt your child and how you will interact with the adoptive family you choose. There is no one size fits all solution, and no one else can tell you what’s best for you.

At the same time, the earlier you understand your options, the more time you will have to think over your decision. While you research the adoption process in Missouri or your home state, it is likely that you’ve heard something about the three types of adoption. The first and most well-known type is a closed adoption. Traditionally, all adoptions used to be closed, and children would grow up not knowing who their biological parents were. The increasingly common open adoption allows interactions between birth parents and adoptive families, so their relationships remain continuous. The semi-open adoption falls in between the two options. Birth mothers have natural concerns about the welfare of their children after the adoptions are finalized, and updates can help them feel confident they made the right choice. Deciding what is right should be taken on a case-by-case basis depending on the needs of both families.

How Do Semi-Open Adoptions Work?

The level of communication you want to have after should be carefully considered. If you want to have communication with your child after their adoption, you need to make sure you and the new family are on the same page. If your baby’s birth father is around, his needs should be considered as well. Times may already be hard, but a family that misunderstands or doesn’t respect your wishes is not a good addition to the mix. In Missouri, post-adoption agreements are not legally binding, so enforcement is up to the court’s discretion. However, keep in mind that through a semi-open adoption, communication is mediated through our adoption agencies in Missouri.

As mentioned above, semi-open adoptions are a combination of closed and open adoptions. Open adoption enables direct interaction between both families. In the semi-open adoption, all interactions are mediated between the adoption agency. Information about you will be given based on your level of consent, and updates on both ends will be delivered through the adoption agency. When making a decision on semi-open adoption, it should be considered how long you want the updates to continue and how often. Also, consider the types of information and level of detail. Are pictures enough? Letters? How often do you want to be updated? All these things should be considered when choosing a semi-open adoption as a birth mother can negotiate all of this with the adoptive parents before the adoption is finalized.

Semi-open adoptions minimize the amount of information shared between birth and adoptive families to ensure privacy. Semi-open adoption has the advantage of leaving the door open for you to have further communication later. Closed adoption may feel too extreme in terms of distancing, and for some, open adoption may be too much to handle on both sides. There are multiple benefits of a semi-open adoption, especially when you are unsure if you want to leave a door open just in case. Many adopted children wonder who their biological parents are, and having some knowledge of where they came from may give them some satisfaction. It also might ease some of the post-placement feelings of loss birth mothers may feel. Adoption is a big decision, and it brings some relief to know that your baby is doing fine. It might ease the nerves of your confused family members, who may not understand why you chose adoption in MO in the first place.

What to Do When You Are Ready For Adoption in MO

As family and friends learn about your adoption, they too might have questions about the three types of adoption. They may have their own opinions about what to pick or why you still want communication with a child you gave to another family. Whatever your home situation is, don’t let someone pressure you into something you are not comfortable with. The whole adoption process is hard, and many people won’t understand. Your adoption specialist will help inform all involved parties to better explain why you are making these decisions.

Adoption Choices of Missouri is happy to help at every step of the adoption process. If you have any questions, our private Missouri adoption agency will answer them, so you can feel confident about your choice. Our adoption agency serves moms across the state, and we understand each family has different needs. Don’t hesitate to call when you are ready to learn more or start the adoption process.

Adoption Choices of Missouri serves birth parents statewide and beyond, please call us or text us to learn more! Call us toll-free at 877-903-4488 or, in Missouri call or text us at 816-527-9800

Meet the author: Seannea Wharton is a student at Miami University majoring in English. As of now, she is working on her first novel, starting a book blog, and learning American Sign Language. She was raised in a suburban town in New Jersey and has various hobbies such as gardening, cooking, and crocheting. She enjoys learning about a wide range of topics and loves finding new books to read.

Birth Mother Blog

Why choose adoption in Missouri?

November 22, 2021 Adoption Choices of Missouri

Why choose adoption in Missouri?

Adoption is a beautiful process that has been practiced and utilized for years. If you don’t know, adoption is when a child is legally put into the care of another family. That child will then be raised as their own and call their new adoptive parents mom and dad. In most cases, the adopted child has no relation to the adoptive parent and are different in the race. Still, that is what makes adoption beautiful. A family wants to adopt a child without any preferences to give them love, health, and a beautiful future.

As birth mothers, we understand that that might sound beautiful, but it will be different once the process begins. That is true, but our adoption process is thorough at Adoption Choices of Missouri with loving staff to support you. Also, as an adoption agency in Missouri, we serve birth mothers or adoptive parents seeking adoption with love and grace. As we always say, we want to build families with the babies being our top priority.

While doing so, we want to end the stigma that affects birth mothers such as yourself every day. There is a negative connotation surrounding adoption in MO, but we have witnessed the good and the bad as an agency, so we understand. But, we want those looking from the outside to not have one scenario broadcasted on TV surrounding neglectful adoptive parents to be the poster of adoption. Due to the stigma, certain birth mothers, including you, may question if adoption is a choice regarding your unplanned pregnancy.

Is the adoption process long in Missouri?

We have a thorough laid-out adoption plan for each birth mother that comes to us. That is why you shouldn’t have any concerns regarding the process at all. As your selection adoption agency, our priority is your health as well. If your health deteriorates due to the stress of the adoption process, then it can affect your unborn baby. We don’t want that at all. We want you as healthy as you can be! The process is at a steady pace, but you play a vital role in the progression of the adoption.

Step 1: If you face an unplanned pregnancy and think about choosing adoption instead of terminating your pregnancy, come to Adoption Choices of Missouri. We will answer any questions you have and provide you with help if you decide to utilize our services. Contact as soon as possible to begin the process of adoption.
Step 2: From there, you will have a meeting with a chosen caseworker that will be in charge of your adoption. Your case can come to you, or you can come to us in our facility based upon your location.
Step 3: Of course, in any process, you have to fill out paperwork, so since this is a delicate process, you will be provided such to sign. Also, before your paper is given to you for protection reasons, we will need documentation proving you are pregnant.
Step 4: If you are in need of financial and medical assistance, we can help with that. We want you healthy, so if you don’t have a frequent doctor at that point, we can provide you with one.
Step 5: Based upon the preferences you have given us on the family you want to adopt your child, we will provide you parent profiles. They will consist of different families that will potentially adopt your unborn child. If you are not in support or pick any of the families, we can definitely provide you with more.
Step 6: If needed, we can provide you with housing with expenses covered during the duration of the adoption process.
Step 7: Depending on the type of adoption you choose: closed, semi-closed, or open adoption, you will have a conference with the adoptive family of your child. It can be in person or solely through your caseworker.
Step 8: As your pregnancy prolongs, so will the adoption process. During the course of such, you will have to keep in contact with us as your adoption agency. Also, keep up with your doctor’s appointments.
Step 9: Once your due date arrives, your caseworker will be there by your side for support and to follow your birth plan. We will make sure the hospital validates your wants and needs.
Step 10: After birth, your baby will be given to the adoptive family, and they shall take them home. Then a court date will arrive where you will give up parental rights.
Step 11: Based upon the type of adoption you picked as the birth mother, you and the adoptive family will continue to have contact. Six weeks after the birth of your baby, expenses shall end.

If you are facing an unplanned pregnancy and are doubting about choosing adoption, know the process is not hard or stressful. Adoption Choices of Missouri is a great agency that will support you while answering all the questions and concerns you have.

Choose Adoption, and We Will Support You

We are a private agency with credentials in adoption and have participated in multiple adoption cases. If you are contemplating adoption, contact us as soon as possible to ask us any questions or more! You can contact us through our website or by phone through text and phone calls. We are available seven days a week and 24 hours a day, meaning there is no rush at all!

Adoption Choices of Missouri serves birth parents statewide and beyond, please call us or text us to learn more! Call us toll-free at 877-903-4488 or, in Missouri call or text us at 816-527-9800

Private Adoption Choosing Missouri Adoptive Family

Birth Mother Blog

Private Adoption: Choosing a Missouri Adoptive Family

November 19, 2021 Adoption Choices of Missouri

Private Adoption: Choosing a Missouri Adoptive Family

What options are there within Missouri adoptive families? How many different types of adoptive families are there? What kind of support will the adoptive family provide for my child? Missouri adoptive families during adoption in MO are very diverse. There are LGBTQ+ adoptive families, single-parent adoptive families, religious adoptive families, transracial adoptive families, and many more. The choice will be yours, and you will also be able to read all their profiles. Choosing a Missouri adoptive family will also be able to financially support your child because they are choosing to adopt. Regardless of which adoptive family you choose, this is an important aspect of adoption to keep in mind. All the adoptive families will be able to provide for your child in many ways, and your child will grow up with amazing values based on the adoptive family you choose. It is important to the adoption process in MO that birth mothers know the choice is all theirs, and we will guide you in your choices through your adoption team– your adoption counselor and caseworker.

LGBTQ+ Adoptive Families During Adoption in MO

LGBTQ+ adoptive families will be able to provide your child with an open mind as they grow up, knowing that society is made up of different types of families that can provide love and care. Your child will grow up knowing that traditionalism is not the only route, and any LGBTQ+ family you choose will be able to give your child love and care because they are choosing to adopt. The family wants a child to love and care for, and they will be happy for the privilege to raise your child.

Regardless of the family’s identity, they will have a set of values that will either match the vision of the future you have or not. The values of each family that you choose are important because they will help you to choose the adoptive families you want to provide for your child.

Single-Parent Adoptive Families During Adoption in MO

Single-parent adoptive families in MO are individuals who want a child to love and care for, and choosing adoption is a way they can do this. A single-parent adoptive family may fit your vision, and as with any other adoptive family, the values that they will raise your child with will be the most important factor. Single-parent adoptive families come to our adoption agency in MO so that they can cherish the child they adopt.

Depending on your own values and the future you envision for you and your child, this may sound fantastic. Adoption in MO wants birth mothers to know that the choice is all yours, and we are just here to provide you with options and to help guide you in your choice.

Religious Adoptive Families During Adoption in MO

The religious adoptive families during adoption in MO could be from a variety of religions, such as Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Sikhism, and many more. As a birth mother, you may or may not want a religious family depending on your own personal values and opinions when reviewing each adoptive family’s profiles. Regardless of the religion, a religious adoptive family will love and care for your child, but we are not here to sway you either way.

Adoption in MO simply wants to show birth mothers that each adoptive family can provide something good for your child, and they will cherish your child. The choice you ultimately make as a birth mother will depend on your own personal values.

Which Missouri Adoptive Family Will You Choose?

There are a host of adoptive families to choose from in MO, and you will choose the adoptive family that best aligns with your values. The future you envision for you and your child will be possible with your many options. While you are choosing between adoptive families, you will be guided by your adoption team– your adoption caseworker and counselor. All the adoptive families will be able to provide love and support and would love the privilege of raising your child.

Each adoptive family will be able to provide your child with love and support, and you will spend a good amount of time choosing between the adoptive families because of the many beautiful adoptive families you will come across. If you are ready to begin choosing adoptive families, please get in touch with our agency, and we will begin the adoption process for you. We can’t wait to help you on your adoption journey.

Adoption Choices of Missouri serves birth parents statewide and beyond, please call us or text us to learn more! Call us toll-free at 877-903-4488 or, in Missouri call or text us at 816-527-9800

Meet the author: Victoria Fatiregun is a sophomore student at West Texas A&M University studying English. She has been writing blog posts for two years on her professional site that covers stories based on film and TV. Occasionally, Victoria also discusses elements of philosophy through poetic material, which is helping her to become a self-published author. Victoria writes primarily about fiction but dabbles in nonfiction too — specifically anything that has to do with social novels based in the Victorian era — and uses writing to understand the world around her. She self-published a nonfiction philosophy and lifestyle novel that she wrote to help others cope with life’s stresses. All of her interests and experiences come through her writing, and help her focus, bring out central ideas, and remain consistent. She hopes her works will aid society in the path towards altruism.

Birth Mother Blog

4 Things You Should Know About How to Put a Baby up for Adoption in Missouri

November 17, 2021 Adoption Choices of Missouri

4 Things You Should Know About How to Put a Baby up for Adoption in Missouri

Mothers across the country give their baby up for adoption, often giving their child to families across state lines. Regardless of where you live, there are a lot of things to consider, and Missouri is no exception. Each state has something different, especially in terms of laws and local issues. Your adoption specialist will assist you in the adoption process, but there are occasions where we just can’t think of all the right questions to ask. As you discuss your choice with family and others who are involved, guide your research with the things below.

1. Birth Father’s Paternity Right

The adoption process is finalized when the parental rights of the birth parents are terminated. Fathers are important to families, and states have passed laws to make things fair for fathers. If your baby’s father is absent, unknown, or unsupportive of the adoption, his paternal rights will have to be a factor before adoption can take place. If a father’s paternity has been legally established, his paternity rights will have to be terminated before the adoption proceeds.

Missouri assumes paternity if the child was born while he was married to the birth mom or within 300 days after the marriage ended or if blood tests prove paternity with a 98% probability. A father whose name is on the birth certificate is not automatically the legal father and does not have parental rights, speak to your adoption caseworker or your legal adviser to learn more. Either biological parent can file a petition for paternity through a state court. Paternity can also be established when both parents sign an acknowledgment of paternity and file it with the court. If the birth father is unknown, it is still possible to proceed with the help of your adoption specialist.

2. Requirements for Adoptive Parents

Depending on where you are in the Missouri adoption process, you may have already picked an adoptive family or still be looking. Your adoption specialist will help you get familiar with your child’s new family, but Missouri’s laws have a few requirements for adoptive parents. These include:

Be 21 years of age or older
Criminal record check
Child abuse and negligent check
Undergo a home study

The presence of a criminal record does not disqualify a prospective family by default, but they may not be able to adapt depending on what’s on their record. Additionally, Missouri does not have marital requirements for adoptive parents.

3. Open Adoption in Missouri

The image of the adopted young adult who journeys to find his or her biological parents and ultimately finds either joy or disappointment is at the forefront of the adoption perception. Although there are many adopted children who don’t know their birth parents, there is an increasing number who do. The closed adoption where the child does not have knowledge or contact with their original parents was the only option for adoption decades ago. Now, open and semi-open adoptions are increasingly common. In open adoptions, biological parents keep in communication with the child as they grow up. In semi-open adoptions, birth parents and adoptive families communicate through a mediator, so the privacy of both parties is protected. Information that you don’t want to be shared will not be given. Carefully consider your needs as you decide what’s best. Laws on adoption vary from state to state, so post-adoption agreements may be enforced differently depending on where you live. Open adoption agreements are not legally binding in Missouri.

4. You Can Receive Financial Assistance

Birth mothers can receive financial assistance for housing, medical care, and other expenses during the adoption process. At the same time, birth mothers are not paid to place their children for adoption, which is illegal in Missouri. The amount you receive will depend on factors in your situation, such as income as well as state limits. Help from the adoptive family is allowed but with court restrictions. Adoption is always free of charge to birth mothers.

How We Can Help You When Placing Your Baby up for Adoption in Missouri

Adoption Choices of Missouri is happy to help you get the financial support you need. We help you develop an adoption plan and navigate any challenges you experience during the process. This includes getting legal help, safe housing, medical care, and other essentials. Don’t be shy to reach out to us through our website’s contact form or a phone call when you’re ready.

Adoption Choices of Missouri serves birth parents statewide and beyond, please call us or text us to learn more! Call us toll-free at 877-903-4488 or, in Missouri call or text us at 816-527-9800

Birth Mother Blog

What’s The Difference Between Open Adoption and Closed Adoption In Missouri?

November 16, 2021 Adoption Choices of Missouri

What’s The Difference Between Open Adoption and Closed Adoption In Missouri?

You can’t believe that you’ve gotten pregnant, and it’s the worst time ever. You simply can’t be a mother right now. But it happened, and you have no clue what to do next. It’s scary, lonely, and you’re wondering:

Where can I get unplanned pregnancy help?

Who can I talk to?

Can I be a parent right now?

Do I even want to be a parent?

These questions are ok and necessary. Only you can answer them. But we can help empower you with knowledge so that you can make the best possible decision for yourself and your baby.

There are so many reasons that you may not be excited about parenthood. Perhaps you are experiencing a teen pregnancy, you may have a rigorous school schedule, you could be struggling financially, or you may even be chronically ill and don’t have the energy to give your baby the life that would benefit them the most. Literally, any reason that you have for questioning parenthood right now is valid. You are entitled to find help and go with the best choice for you and your future. Here at Adoption Choices of Kansas, Missouri, we want to help you discover the best path for you.

Are You Considering Adoption?

Becoming pregnant, planned or unplanned, can be terrifying, and we are here to help you conquer this season. You are not the first mother who felt scared and lost after becoming pregnant, and you won’t be the last. There are three options that you have to choose from at this time, and they are:

Terminating the pregnancy
Parenting your child
Placing your baby for adoption

Any choice you make is the right choice, and no one has the right to pressure you into one or the other. We want to give you options and help you discover the best plan of action according to your needs. Whatever you decide, we will help you walk that path. If you do not wish to terminate the pregnancy or parent right now, adoption is an option. If you’re pregnant considering adoption, we can help provide an adoption plan. We can also help you if you are with your infant. Our licensed local adoption agency is ready to counsel you, provide financial assistance, get you housing. We will also help you choose an adoptive family, provide medical coverage, create a hospital plan, and get you back on your feet.

What’s an Open Adoption, a Semi-Open Adoption, and a Closed Adoption?

You don’t have any answers yet for what you should do, and that’s ok. We want to help you find answers and make the best decision for you both. There are three types of adoptions:

Open
Semi-Open
Closed

Nowadays, most adoptions are open adoptions, but your’s does not have to be. An open adoption entails you and the adoptive family meeting one another (virtually or in-person), exchanging contact information, attending the first doctor’s appointment and delivery together, and you all staying in contact. This contact can also be with their siblings, grandparents, etc. (if you wish). Adoptive families who desire open adoption will be matched with you for you to vet. They are eager to keep the birth mother stay involved in their child’s life so that the child knows that they are adopted, can get medical records, and not run into missing information that they can’t supply in their future.

A closed adoption is when you choose the adoptive family for your child, and there is no further contact between yourself, the adoptive parents, or your child after being adopted. No contact or locality information is exchanged between you and the adoptive family. This does not necessarily mean that records are sealed. You still have the option to seal records of the adoption or leave them open, meaning your baby may or may not have the ability to know your contact information in the future. Many adoptive families that choose this option do so and may possibly never tell the child that they have been adopted.

A semi-open adoption is halfway between the open and the closed adoption. The adoptive parents may or may not be in the delivery room. You may or may not meet. But there is a minimum contact standard throughout your baby’s life in which the adoptive family will send letters and pictures.

We are here to counsel you throughout this entire process. You have the ability to make your decision, and if it’s not right for you, you can call it all off. There is no pressure. We want to empower you with unplanned pregnancy options that benefit you and your child’s future.

Giving Up Your Baby Up For Adoption

We have helped hundreds of women just like you transition through the adoption process and get their lives back on track. Let us help you too. Parenthood is not a mandatory predicament. You don’t have to lose the hopes and dreams that you had before you got pregnant. There are more options, and if you do not want to terminate your pregnancy or with an infant now, contact us at

Adoption in MO so that we can help you create an adoption plan that will give your baby a great future and put you back into the driver’s seat of your own life.

Adoption Choices of Missouri serves birth parents statewide and beyond, please call us or text us to learn more! Call us toll-free at 877-903-4488 or, in Missouri call or text us at 816-527-9800

Meet the Author: JaQueen loves learning because it helps her educate and give people choices. She is the youngest girl in a family of 8 adopted siblings who found a loving forever home. Like most marketers, she wears many hats: Certified Project Management Professional, Jr. Web Developer, SEO certified, Grant Proposal Writer, Consultant, Wellness Influencer, Content Creator, and Motivational Speaker with a Bachelor’s in Communication Arts. She created a wellness blog to motivate, write, and inspire in her spare time to teach about mental health, plant-based vegan nutrition, and fitness to help others find peace on their healing journey. Her hobbies include natural bodybuilding, mindfulness, trailblazing through nature, and creating content that resonates with people. She aspires to be a lifelong professional writer and speaker who saves lives through the power of knowledge. She states, “I think that when you find your way out of the darkness it becomes your responsibility to bring others to the light. So, I focus on healing. The rest will align.”

Birth Mother Blog

Adoption Isn’t a Bad Word

November 15, 2021 Adoption Choices of Missouri

Adoption Isn’t a Bad Word

For years since the existence of adoption, people have judged or looked down upon such a word and the adoption process included. It has caused family members, friends, or more to turn against those they claim to love because they don’t agree with their decision. Many feel a child belongs in the care of their parents, not someone else. Such a matter has been depicted on reality TV shows, documentaries, and fictional movies. Due to the judgment, birth mothers may keep their decision of adoption private or raise the baby. When it comes down to after the baby is born, the people that judged you the most are not present. They are against you during a time when you need support the most because they are not in support of you providing your baby a better life. Afterward, they are not against you, but you follow their advice by keeping the baby after there for you.

As a licensed private adoption agency in Missouri, Adoption Choices of Missouri we want you to know adoption is beautiful. If you are feeling judged and not supported, not only can you come to use the answer to help with the Missouri adoption process. But, also for support, you can connect to us as a staff and other birth mothers. Judgment is hard, and we understand that maybe not from the perspective of adoption but other notions. Those that are judging you are not raising the child, carrying the child, or understanding the exact importance of adoption.

What is adoption?

Adoption is a thorough and delicate legal process that is practiced in multiple states. It is when a child is taken into care by another family that has no biological relation to them. Through the help of an adoption agency, like ourselves, the court system is the dominating factor in allowing such to happen. After the child is placed within the adoptive family’s care, that will become their mom and dad. It is not an easy process, but it can be greatly smooth and copasetic if you are serious while following your requirements.

If you are considering adoption, you should know there are three different types of adoption: close, semi-open, and open. They are vital to know because you are to pick which adoption type you want to follow.

Closed Adoption: A private form of adoption that keeps protected both parties, like yourself and the adoptive family. During such a process, you are provided with parent profiles from us based on the preferences you gave us. You have the right to choose the family that you would like to raise. However, the information will be limited while your identity is completely sealed and unknown to those who are adopting your baby. The details you receive about your potential adoptive family are limited. With only their first names present, but their address, last name, and more are concealed. During the process of adoption, there shall not be any contact between either party with your caseworker handling contact between you all. After the baby is born and in the care of their adoptive parents, you will no longer have any contact. Depending on the adoptive parents, they can do so through your caseworker if they would like to send you letters, pictures, and more. But, contact will still not happen between either party.
Semi-Open Adoption: A form of adoption between both types of adoption plans. You are to pick the adoptive family of your baby. Though you will not meet in person, and information pertaining to the family will be very vague. Communication between yourself and the family will be facilitated with the help of your casework. After your child’s birth, you will sustain communication with the adoptive family through different forms of communication. In some cases, based upon the birth mother’s preferences, you can exchange numbers or emails to have better communication.
Open Adoption: The word open definitely explains this type of adoption. Unlike the other two types of adoption, information is exchanged between both parties. As the birth mother, your identity is prevalent, and so is the potential adoptive family which you pick. Names, addresses, and more are given to you. There shall be more communication between you, even in person. However, your caseworker will be present. When the baby is finally born, communication will still be there, and you can even become part of the family depending upon the relationship you two develop.

Understanding these three adoption plans means you are not a bad person, and adoption is not a dangerous word or process.

Where Does the Stigma Surrounding the Adoption Process Come From?

We are not necessarily sure why there is a stigma surrounding adoption, but we do have an understanding. Due to certain high-profile cases that take place on televisions, including an adoptive family, many people look down upon adoption. They use that certain family that committed neglect acts against their adopted child, which we denounce, believing that family is the poster child of all parents seeking adoptions.

To add on, at certain times, many people believe that regardless of your predicament, you can be poor and suffering, you should raise your child. They feel as if you are giving up on your child, which Adoption Choices of Missouri doesn’t believe to be true. We know unplanned pregnancy takes place every year, and adoption is not giving up on your baby. Also, we do thorough checks on adoptees and more to make sure your child will be safe and loved.

There are more reasons why people are against adoption, which include race, sexuality, and more. Those are just unnecessary educated people that aren’t worth paying attention to.

Adoption is Beautiful, and We Want You to Know That

We are an adoption agency that wants to support you while those around you don’t. At the same time, we want those that doubt and discourage adoption from knowing it is a beautiful process that helps thousands of children a year. As we always say, our goal is to build families, and we have services for birth mothers and seeking to adopt. We love children, and we believe they deserve to live in a healthy environment. With a 24 hours service that is available seven days a week, you contact us through our portal! Another way is by text or calls where you would get the best help from qualified staff members.

Adoption Choices of Missouri serves birth parents statewide and beyond, please call us or text us to learn more! Call us toll-free at 877-903-4488 or, in Missouri call or text us at 816-527-9800

Birth Mother Blog

Adoption 101: The Missouri Adoption Process

November 12, 2021 Adoption Choices of Missouri

Adoption 101: The Missouri Adoption Process

What do I need to know about adoption services in Missouri as a birth mother? I am pregnant and need adoption help. What can I do? I am seeking to place my child for adoption in MO. What are adoption resources available to me? If you are pregnant and considering adoption, Adoption Choices of Missouri is ready to help you to plan the future you envision for you and your child. Adoption in MO involves the extensive planning of the Missouri adoption process, which ensures your comfort first in providing you with safe housing, financial resources through food stamps, and ensuring you are in good health.

How to Make Sure Birth Mothers are Comfortable in MO

Pregnant adoption help in MO includes making sure that all our birth mothers go back to comfortable homes, and we encourage birth mothers to do everything to make sure their homes are safe spaces. In addition, we want you to make sure you get enough rest and also have time to de-stress. We do not want anything to negatively impact you during the adoption process, so we provide you with the resources necessary to ensure this is the case.

We provide safe housing for birth mothers who need it and financial resources through food stamps because we will not allow a birth mother to be stressed during the adoption process. After all, planning is such an important part of the process. Also, after the adoption, we keep in touch with birth mothers to ensure they are okay.

Diet and exercise are another important part of keeping birth mothers comfortable because we want you to have a healthy pregnancy. Diet and exercise increase your chances of remaining in good health during your pregnancy.

The Adoption Plan in Missouri

The adoption plan is a part of an extensive process to allow you to place your child with a birth family of your choice and ensure that you choose an adoptive type that benefits you. There are three adoption types: open, semi-open, and closed adoption. Each one provides something different depending on what the birth mother is looking for, as open and semi-open adoption include having access to adoptive parents and child but closed adoption means not having any access at all. Personal documents of the birth mother are also shared in an open adoption and may in a semi-open adoption. But, of course, in a closed adoption, no documents are shared.

Each adoption type offers something different, and this is also true for the adoptive families chosen, as there are a large group of adoptive families with different makeups, and each one will provide something beneficial. It will depend on the needs of the birth mother. There are adoptive families that are LGBTQ+, faith-based, traditional, or single-parent families. It is up to you what you choose.

After Delivery Plans in Missouri

Adoption Choices of Missouri does not forget about you once you have delivered your baby and the adoption has been finalized because we care about birth mothers in Missouri and want the best for you. We ensure that you still have access to adoption resources through our adoption counselors, who will contact you, and who you can contact with any questions you have as well.

We want you to know we care and are involved in the adoption process and aftercare. Regardless of which adoption type you choose, we will still check up on you to build your future.

Is Giving My Baby Up For Adoption Worth It?

Adoption Choices of Missouri is about providing birth mothers with the right amount of care needed to have a successful adoption process, and we ensure that you are aware of all the long-term planning that should occur because we want you to know that placing your baby for adoption is worth it. We guide you through the process to ensure you are comfortable, not stressed, and happy with all of the decisions you are making.

We want to help you build towards the future you envision for you and your child and provide you with the aftercare necessary to have a successful adoption journey. With all the choices you have, you will be secure in whatever decision you make between adoption choices and adoption types.

If you are interested in beginning the adoption process, please reach out to Adoption Choices of Missouri to help you. We want the best for you, and we can’t wait to meet you.

Adoption Choices of Missouri serves birth parents statewide and beyond, please call us or text us to learn more! Call us toll-free at 877-903-4488 or, in Missouri call or text us at 816-527-9800

1 2