All About the Benefits of Choosing Adoption

November 23, 2023 Adoption Choices of Missouri

All About the Benefits of Choosing Adoption

By Brendan Finegan

When some people think about adoption, they often picture the birth mother as the only significant factor in the process. However, the adoptive parent and child play just as equal roles. You will have to consider what the best plans and options are for your child and the adoptive family during the adoption process. If you’re feeling anxious and hopeless trying to balance everyone’s needs during your unplanned pregnancy, do not worry. Adoption Choices of Missouri is here to help you understand the best choices for your child, the adoptive parents, and yourself.

5 Ways to Make Adoption Work for Everyone

Finding the right adoption agency will give you the best choices for both the adoptive parents and child during an unplanned pregnancy. It’s tough satisfying all the needs of every person included in the adoption process, but through careful planning and support, you’ll find exceptional choices for adoption in Missouri. Adoption Choices of Missouri will provide you with the high-quality professional counseling needed to select a successful adoption plan. If you’re worried giving up your child won’t align with their and the adoptive parents’ needs, take some time to familiarize yourself with your options.

1. You Get to Choose Your Adoptive Family

You will be able to closely coordinate with your adoption specialist to choose your child’s adoptive family. Rest assured your baby will be cared for before, during, and after the adoption process; the choice of what happens to your adopted child is entirely yours. You get to decide if the adoptive family has local roots within your community, has a similar ethnic background as yourself, and possesses the same lifestyle and religious beliefs. After you’ve found the adoptive family that you believe will suit your child’s needs, you’ll have the opportunity to meet the adoptive family. You will have the final choice of moving forward with the adoption process.

2. Find the Type of Adoption that will Work for Everyone

You will have the opportunity to decide between three types of adoption for your child: open adoptions, semi-open adoptions, and closed adoptions. With open adoptions, information such as names, phone numbers, and contact info are shared with the adoptive family. You will get to decide the varying degrees of openness with the adoptive family after the adoption process is finalized. The level of contact post-placement typically includes emails, letters, pictures, phone calls, and in-person visits.

In a semi-open adoption plan, non-identifying information is shared between you and the adoptive family. You can still exchange letters, photos, and emails during a semi-open adoption either directly or through a third party, but in-person visits with the adoptive family usually do not take place. Your child will typically have no direct communication with you.

If you choose a closed adoption, you will never meet with the adoptive family and will know very little about them. Adoption Choices of Missouri will choose the adoptive family for your child. Keep in mind that the adoption agreement made between you and the adoptive family is only enforced until your child reaches adulthood and can make decisions for themselves.

3. You Will be Able to Ensure that Your Child Has the Best Possible Circumstance

Take comfort in the fact that your child can have the home and lifestyle that you believe is necessary after adoption. If you’re worried about financial security for your child, you’ll be able to find an adoptive family that can provide the support for a quality upbringing. Your child can have a home life and stable family. In return, the adoptive family that you select can provide the life for your child that fits both your criteria.

4. You can Gain the Financial Assistance Needed Throughout the Adoption Process

With your adoption plan, you will bear no cost for the adoption. If eligible, you can coordinate with the adoptive family to cover your living expenses. This way, you will gain support from the adoptive family throughout the adoption process. Your child will be going to a family that understands the difficulties of working and possibly lacking family support while pregnant. Have assurance that your child will be going to a loving home that supports you during your pregnancy.

Get the Medical Services that you Need During the Adoption Process

Adoption Choices of Missouri will ensure that you receive timely and effective prenatal care through our adoption services. It is crucial that you have the necessary healthcare for a healthy and successful delivery. Your baby’s health and safety is essential not just for themself but also for the adoption process with your selected adoptive parents.

Start your Adoption Process

After carefully choosing what will be most beneficial for yourself, your child, and the adoptive parents, you can begin the adoption process. Taking the time to consider what option is best for every party involved will create the smoothest and most effective adoption process possible. Take a look at the steps outlined below if you’re unsure how to start the adoption process. An unplanned pregnancy can be stressful and overwhelming, but we’re here to help.

Contact Adoption Choices of Missouri at (816) 527-9800 to have all your questions and concerns answered.
Meet with an adoption specialist to discuss options, information, and support.
Select an adoptive family for you based on your preferences.
Create a hospital and birth plan so that your baby can leave with the adoptive family after birth.
Receive post-placement counseling after the adoption.

Giving your child up for adoption is not an easy decision, but after selecting the best possible plan, your baby will have the life that will bring you comfort and relief after adoption. Pick from the adoption agencies near you that will get rid of the worries and anxiety of an unplanned pregnancy.

Birth Mother Blog Putting baby up for adoption

Why Adoption Could Be Right for You

October 5, 2023 Adoption Choices of Missouri

Why Adoption Could Be Right for You

By Megan Kostraba

Considering adoption for your baby is an incredibly difficult decision. There’s a lot to think about as a birth mother, and reaching your decision is life-changing either way. Choosing adoption can be intimidating, stressful, and frustrating. However, it can also be the best decision you’ve ever made! Adoption is a wonderful choice when experiencing an unplanned pregnancy, but the road to getting there has some rough terrain.

At Adoption Choices of Missouri, we have worked with countless women who come from many different backgrounds. Choosing adopción de bebes is hard regardless! Women choose adoption for various reasons, as every birth mother’s adoption plan is unique. This journey of self-exploration is all a part of the adoption process. Find out why adoption could be right for you and why it’s a helpful option for so many women. Let’s talk about why adoption might be your best choice and help you understand your own reasons.

Choosing Adoption Means Helping An Adoptive Family

When it comes to adoption, you can be sure of one thing. Your child will be placed with a loving and caring family. This is something every adoption agency guarantees birth parents, including us at Adoption Choices of Missouri. While by choosing adoption, you may be missing out on your own wishes, you will also be granting somebody else’s wish. It’s a selfless act that stems from a place of love for your child.

Adoption isn’t an easy choice that just appears in every birth mother’s mind. It takes a lot of careful thinking. Ultimately, the thought of adoption stems from the unconditional love you have for your child. One thing that helps a lot of birth mothers understand their adoption is the knowledge that the adoptive family also has unconditional love. Your child will be cared for and loved, and depending on the type of adoption you choose, you can even visit your child! Your difficult situation can be a blessing for someone else.

Choosing Adoption is Choosing Yourself

Unplanned pregnancies can be extremely scary. Your whole life changes in about a minute, and you may not feel ready for that. That’s okay! Motherhood is not everyone’s choice, and even if it is, you might need more time to prepare for it. Women choose adoption for various reasons. Some of those can include:

Financial concerns
Medical issues
Personal goals
Age
Preparedness
Unsupportive family
Unsupportive partner

Having your own wants and wishes in life that are separate from your child is okay. Some birth mothers want to reach career or education goals. Even getting married or moving might influence your decision! Whatever your reasons might be, remember that it is okay to choose yourself.

You Can Feel in Control When You Consider Adoption

Facing an unplanned pregnancy can be scary and confusing! You might feel like you have no control over the situation, and it can be hard to live in that reality. Some birth mothers take comfort in the fact that there are options, like adoption, out there for them. Those options help birth mothers feel more control over their situation in comparison to that panic-inducing realization that stems from an unplanned pregnancy.

Choosing adoption is choosing your baby over anyone else, including yourself.

You Can See Your Child Thrive with an Adoptive Family

Depending on the type of adoption you choose, you might have multiple opportunities to communicate with your child! There are a lot of misconceptions about adoption out there, one of them being that birth parents don’t want to see their child. This is a very personal choice as a birth parent, but some do want to see their child thrive.

It can be hard to accept the fact that you will not be playing the role of ‘parent’ in your child’s life. Something that can help is understanding that you do have the opportunity to see them grow! With an open adoption, you can communicate with your child through options like:

Video calls
Emailing
Texting
In-person meetings

Adoption in Missouri is more open than some people realize! You and your adoption specialist can discuss all of your options and choose a plan that supports your wants and wishes.

Choosing Adoption with an Agency is Choosing Support for Yourself

There can be a lot of challenges to face when it comes to choosing adoption. Many people are intimidated by the adoption process and all the unknowns that follow. That’s what adoption agencies are there for!

Adoption agencies prioritize the birth mother. We understand what you are going through and want to help in multiple ways! At Adoption Choices of Missouri, we offer a number of services for our birth mothers. Financial support, medical care, support counseling, housing—these are just some of the ways we can help you during your adoption journey. When you choose to work with an agency for your adoption, you know that you are in good hands!

Choosing Adoption Today

Ultimately, choosing adoption is a very personal choice. It takes time to think it all over! This period of self-reflection is important to your decision-making process. Remember that adoption is a selfless act, not selfish. The reasons you have for choosing adoption might differ from someone else’s. However, adoption all stems from one thing: the love you have for your child.

If you are considering adoption for your child or are looking for some guidance, reach out to one of our adoption agencies near you! We are here to help. With Adoption Choices of Missouri, you are our priority.

Having Baby After Placing One for Missouri Adoption

Birth Mother Blog Putting baby up for adoption

Having a Baby After Placing One for Adoption in Missouri

September 25, 2023 Adoption Choices of Missouri

Having a Baby After Placing One for Adoption in Missouri

By Nicholas Rodinos

Many birth mothers wonder if they can have a family after placing a baby for adoption. Of course, you can, however, there are challenges you may face. There may be psychological and familial obstacles. However, there are adoption agencies nearby that can assist you.

Adoption Choices of Missouri can assist you on your adoption journey and answer any adoption questions you have. Our adoption agencies will be by your side at every step of the adoption process. We will always put your psychological and emotional needs first while helping in your time of need. You may be eligible for financial support, as well as housing, transportation, rent, and utilities.

Can I Have a Baby After Placing One for Adoption?

Yes, many birth mothers form families after placing children for adoption; however, there are concerns that should be addressed. It can be important to address and acknowledge why you sought out the Missouri adoption process. Acknowledging your reason for adoption can be therapeutic and often helps birth mothers come to terms with the decision. Adoption agencies are sympathetic to birth mothers in crisis, they understand your reasons for placing your child for adoption.

Reasons For Adoption

Birth mothers choose adoption for a variety of important reasons, including:

The birth mothers are finishing their education, or focusing on their career, and raising a child could jeopardize that.
They’re simply not ready to raise children and need time to learn.
Birth mothers might not be in the right financial, mental, or emotional place to care for children right now.
The birth mothers feel someone else would be better suited for raising their children.
They’re in a relationship with someone they don’t feel is suitable for children.
The birth mother was surprised by an unplanned pregnancy or a teenage pregnancy.
Some birth mothers live in unsafe homes for children.

There are many valid reasons why birth mothers choose to place their children for adoption in Missouri. Some birth mothers choose adoption because of financial reasons, some for safety, and others were not ready for motherhood. No matter what the reason, adoption agencies are here to help you find a loving home for your child.

How Will My Birth Child Feel After the Adoption?

Some birth mothers worry their birth children will resent them for placing them for adoption, this is rare. Many birth children learn about their birth mothers and come to understand the reasons for placing them for adoption. These children tend to recognize that their birth mothers sought out adoption agencies for important reasons, whatever they are. Most birth children recognize that you and Missouri adoption agencies are responsible for providing them with loving adoptive parents.

Emotional Factors to Consider After Adoption

Guilt, regret, and post-adoption grief can be common in birth mothers building families after placing a child for adoption. It can be essential to seek out post-adoption counseling so that you can process feelings of grief or guilt. A Missouri adoption counselor will help you discuss and process your pain and create an effective coping mechanism. Adoption agencies near you can provide you with emotional support and guidance on how to grapple with post-adoption pain.

What If My Loved Ones Disagree with The Adoption?

This is a difficult decision, but remember that your happiness and health are the top priorities when adopting. Remember that you made a sacrifice to give your child a loving, safe home with amazing adoptive parents. Some people don’t understand adoption in Missouri or your needs/reasons for placing your child for adoption. Connect with supportive loved ones, and remember you provided your child with a home and a safe, loving family.

Resources Adoption Agencies Provide

Adoptive Parent Evaluation. Adoption agencies in Missouri examine their potential adoptive parents to determine if they’re eligible parents who match your qualifications. These adoption agencies employ professionals who examine their candidates’ financial, psychological, and emotional stability. You can rest easy knowing the adoptive family you selected for your child consists of wonderful parents.
Adoption Counseling. Adoption counseling is essential as it provides tools for managing post-adoption grief. The counselor will ask how your grief manifests and find healthy ways to express and confront it. Your adoption counselor may suggest different therapies or support groups to help you discuss your grief.
Adoption Planning. Adoption agencies near you provide you with control over the adoption plan, including post-adoption contact with your child. The adoption plan determines the level of contact and openness you have with your child and their adoptive family. You can decide how much information your child knows about you and how much you know about them.

Ways Adoption Agencies in Missouri Can Help You

Starting a family after placing a child for adoption can be difficult. However, you know that you deserve happiness. Missouri adoption agencies can provide the resources to meet your child again and explain why you chose adoption. Adoption agencies provide you with the tools to help you cope with any post-adoption pain and move forward with your life. It can be rewarding to see the families you created, yours, and the loving home you provided a child.

Adoption Choices of Missouri will answer your questions regarding the adoption process, adoption support, adoption planning, and birth planning. We are a licensed adoption agency specializing in finding and approving adoptive families, to care for your child’s wellbeing. Our agency provides you with financial support, housing, transportation, and psychological counseling for any post-adoption grief you may feel. If you need birth mother support, please contact our adoption agency and we’ll provide the necessary resources.

Adoption Choices of Missouri responderán sus preguntas sobre la adopción de bebes y le explicará el proceso. Nuestra agencia brinda apoyo emocional y financiero, así como atención médica, vivienda, transporte, alquiler, servicios públicos y asesoramiento psicológico. Somos una agencia de adopción privada autorizada que se especializa en encontrar padres calificados para su hijo. Adoption Choices of Missouri encuentran un hogar seguro y amoroso para su hijo.

Benefits of Counseling After Missouri Adoption

Birth Mother Blog Putting baby up for adoption

The Benefits of Adoption Counseling After Putting a Baby Up for Adoption in Missouri

September 14, 2023 Adoption Choices of Missouri

The Benefits of Adoption Counseling After Putting a Baby Up for Adoption in Missouri

By Nicole Cunningham

Adoption is an emotionally difficult situation for most birth parents when they place their baby up for adoption, especially if it comes out of an unplanned pregnancy. Although you know you are doing the right thing, it does not always feel that way. For some birth parents, it can cause them anxiety and depression. There are feelings of guilt, grief, and sadness that can all come from placing your baby for adoption. Every situation is different, but that doesn’t take away from the pain that can still come from placing your baby up for adoption. Luckily for you, there are resources that you can use to help you through this process. Adoption Choices of Missouri can offer you counseling after you place your baby for adoption.

What is Adoption Counseling?

Adoption counseling is a service offered to birth parents who have already gone through the adoption process. You have placed your child for adoption and are on the other side of that process. This counseling can help educate families, especially birth mothers, about what to expect.

What is Covered in Adoption Counseling?

There are different topics that take place during the counseling session, such as the emotions you are experiencing. They will ask if you are grieving or feeling regretful. The counselors are concerned if you feel like you did the right thing by placing your child up for adoption. Or if you are feeling any kind of regret. They are trying to figure out exactly how you are feeling and if they need to express those feelings. After going through something as stressful as the adoption process, the counselors are going to try to figure out what direction to go in for the sessions.

Adoption Counseling Benefits and Advantages

For birth mothers, the benefits of adoption counseling will help you figure out the emotions you are experiencing and help you overcome them.

You will be able to have all your questions about the process you experienced placing your child for adoption can be answered by Adoption Choices of Missouri
You can speak with the counselors about feelings of grief, depression, etc., and get professional help to heal those emotions.
You can speak with them about concerns you may have, such as the baby’s life and adoptive family.
Counselors are there to help guide you and show you what the steps of the post-adoption plan look like.

Who Can Receive Adoption Counseling?

Adoption counseling is for the birth parents involved in the adoption in Missouri process. The birth mother and the birth father can receive counseling if needed. For many adoptions, the birth mother tends to experience grief worse.

The counseling is there to support these parents who are involved and help them get to an emotionally sound position. Placing a child for adoption is never an easy situation to be involved in. It is the best situation for many families to help their child have a chance at a better life with their adoptive family.

The Different Types of Adoption Counseling You May Be Unfamiliar With

There are different types of counseling sessions that you can get involved in: one-on-one, support groups, and birth mother retreats.

One-on-one sessions are, as it sounds, sessions that are one-on-one with one of the counselors. They will be able to answer any questions that the birth mother or father may have. It is just between the two of them; therefore, you can ask them anything that you would like. They will be able to answer all the questions that you throw at them.

Support groups are with other birth mothers who have been involved in the adoption process. These birth mothers have gone through the same process as you. Not all of the situations will be the same; every birth mother gives a child up for adoption for different reasons and situations. However, they will all be able to talk with one another about the experiences they are having and the emotions they are going through.

Birth mother retreats are for birth mothers only, and they are, as it sounds, similar to a vacation for birth mothers. They will go and experience the retreat with other birth mothers, try to find time to relax and talk with one another about the adoption process and how they are processing it.

Why is it Important for Birth Parents to Experience Adoption Counseling?

Adoption counseling can help birth parents talk about their emotions. Many birth parents have a hard time talking about their emotions, especially if those emotions are negative. This gives them the opportunity to express themselves without worrying about who is expressing those emotions too. It’s healthy to talk about their feelings and get them off their chests.

Adoption Choices of Missouri is here to help get birth parents connected with a counselor if they choose. Please feel free to reach out to us with any other questions if you are considering adoption for your baby.

Birth Mother Blog Putting baby up for adoption

Putting a Baby Up for Adoption Today in Missouri

August 7, 2023 Adoption Choices of Missouri

Putting a Baby Up for Adoption Today in Missouri

Putting a baby up for adoption through private adoption has been a significant part of the adoption landscape for many years. It involves the placement of a child with adoptive parents through a private agency or attorney, rather than through the foster care system. Over the past two decades, the private adoption process has gone through many notable changes. These changes reflect evolving societal attitudes, advancements in technology, and improvements in adoption practices. Many people have an outdated understanding of what private adoption looks like. If you are pregnant and considering adoption for your baby, you may not know how private adoption has changed. In this article, we will delve into the private adoption process and see how it has transformed in the past two decades.

Adoption Choices of Missouri is a licensed adoption agency that has been providing adoption services for many years. We’ve seen firsthand how private adoption has changed, and have incorporated those improvements into our own organization. We here at Adoption Choices are here to provide all the information and support you need to navigate adoption in Missouri. As you consider your adoption options, keep us in mind.

Focus on Birth Parent Support and Counseling

Our society as a whole has come to understand and prioritize mental health far more than in the past. This has impacted adoption practices and brought more attention to the mental health of birth mothers. In the past, birth parent support and counseling services were not as widely available as they are today. Adoption Choices recognizes the importance of emotional support for birth parents throughout the adoption journey. We prioritize birth parent counseling, offering resources and guidance to help birth parents navigate the complex emotions and challenges that arise during the adoption process. These counseling services are not limited to the pre-adoption phase, they extend to the recovery period as well. This ensures that birth parents have ongoing support and access to resources to cope with their feelings and experiences after placement. Adoption can be a mental and emotional challenge, but there are resources available to birth parents that can help.

Embracing Technology and Online Adoption Resources

In the past, the adoption process heavily relied on paper documents, phone calls, and in-person meetings. Today, technology has revolutionized the way adoptive parents and birth parents connect and navigate the process. Adoption websites and online platforms such as ours have become valuable resources for prospective adoptive parents and birth parents. Adoptive parents can create profiles, share their stories, and express their desire to adopt, and birth parents can now explore adoptive family profiles at their convenience, gaining insight into potential matches. Now by simply searching “adoption agencies near me”, you have instant access to information and resources that are specific to your area.

The digital era has made communication more efficient, enabling adoptive families and birth parents to maintain contact through emails, video calls, and social media platforms. These advancements have not only expedited the matching process but have also enhanced transparency and empowered birth parents to take an active role in selecting the perfect family for their child. Technology has made increased communication and birth parent involvement possible. More information and resources for birth parents looking into adoption is readily available to anyone with questions about adoption. It is now possible to immediately get in contact with nearby adoption agencies to receive guidance that is specifically tailored to you.

Shift Towards Openness and Ongoing Contact

Two decades ago, closed adoptions were more common, and birth parents often had limited or no contact with their child after placement. In recent years, there has been a significant shift towards openness in adoption, and taking into consideration the choice of the birth mother. Many private adoptions now involve varying degrees of ongoing contact between birth parents and adoptive families.

Open adoptions can offer benefits to all parties involved. Birth parents can gain reassurance that their child is thriving in a loving environment, while adoptive families can provide their child with information about their birth family. Open communication between birth parents and adoptive families can create a more seamless and emotionally healthy experience for the child as they grow and develop a sense of identity. As a birth mother, you are now able to choose between open, semi-open, or closed adoption, a choice that previously was unavailable. This improvement in adoption practices ensures that you can make your adoption experience just right for you.

Improving and Modernizing Private Adoption: An Ongoing Effort for Putting a Baby Up for Adoption

The private adoption process has evolved significantly over the past several years. Technology, openness, support services, and birth parent involvement have played pivotal roles in shaping modern adoption practices. Today, the private adoption process is more accessible, transparent, and focused on the well-being of all involved parties. These changes reflect society’s growing appreciation for the importance of honoring birth parents’ choices. They also reflect society supporting birth parent emotional well-being. And ensuring adoptive families are prepared for the lifelong commitment of adopting a child.

As the private adoption process continues to evolve, it will continue to adapt. This ongoing process ensures we can continue to improve. We have provided support for many pregnant women in Missouri through all of these changes. And we continue to do so. If you are pregnant and considering adoption, reach out to Adoption Choices of Missouri today, we are here to help.

Birth Mother Blog Putting baby up for adoption

Benefits of Entering into A Single Man Adoption in Missouri

July 3, 2023 Adoption Choices of Missouri

Benefits of Entering into A Single Man Adoption in Missouri

By Alexandra Butcher

Choosing the right family for your baby after an unplanned pregnancy can be a difficult choice for birth parents. You want to make sure you place your child in a loving home, but the adoption process feels daunting and overwhelming. One of the many options for your child is a single-parent adoption, and it may even be one of the better choices depending on your circumstances. Single-parent adoptions are much less common than adoption by a married couple and undergo a much more rigorous evaluation process. They are often much more scrutinized and hold a lot of negative stigma, especially for single men who are wanting to adopt. Despite this stigma, Adoption Choices of Missouri is here to support you through this process and encourage your decision to enter into a single-man adoption.

Emotional Stability

You can rest safely each night knowing that your child has a father that loves them unconditionally and they won’t be affected by marital issues or instability. In the past years, divorce rates have been rising and trauma can often stem from conflict within the household, mainly between spouses. If you are giving a child up for adoption and want to prioritize their mental health and psychological well being, this is a great route to choose. Growing up in a single parent household will ensure that they don’t suffer the consequences of a messy divorce or break-up.

Dedication

Choosing to adopt a child as a single man is no small feat, so you can rest assured that your child’s future adoptive father is a dedicated man who has thought long and hard about the process and is more than willing to provide for your child in whatever means necessary. Not only that, but this adoptive single father has undergone a rigorous process to be eligible to adopt your baby (check out our home study checklist to get details about the diligence and attentiveness of our home studies and the adoption process in general). Just like you, they thought tirelessly about their plans for adoption and know what they are getting themselves into.

No Distractions

Your child won’t unconsciously be fighting a battle for attention between themselves and a spouse. The single father will be the primary caregiver and will give their undivided attention to their child. Your baby will grow up as the primary focus of the single man’s life with no distractions. This prospective father has chosen to go into this and acknowledges all the responsibility they must handle, so you can be at peace knowing that this child is going to get unconditional love from their single father!

Financial Stability

Money is often the root of many issues in life simply because it is a necessity. Entering into the adoption process is not cheap and requires financial stability. Generally, adoption is an expensive route and is a huge financial decision for future adoptive parents, which is why having a single man with a stable career adopt your baby is an amazing option. They have already established themselves as financially ready for this life-changing decision and have undergone all necessary background and financial checks to ensure that they will provide for this child’s life.

No Conflicting Parenting Styles

Given that the adoptive father will be the only parent, there is no need to worry about conflicting parenting styles or rules. Your child will grow up in a safe environment with uniform rules. There will be less chance of confusion and the child won’t feel emotional trauma from having to pick a side in parenting debates. The household rules, regulations, curfews, etc will all be managed by one parent, leaving no room for conflict between parents over what the other should be doing. In turn, this creates a peaceful environment for your child to grow, learn, and succeed in life.

Why Should You Choose a Single Man to Adopt Your Baby

If you are considering adoption for your baby, don’t be dissuaded from choosing a single man. In fact, this might be one of the best decisions for your child! If you place your child in a single man adoption, you’re paving the way for a future of emotional and financial stability, less spousal conflict, and a dedicated and endless love and support system for your child. Don’t let the stigma surrounding single parent adoption hold you back. Through an adoption agency like Adoption Choices of Missouri, you can ensure that your child ends up in a safe and nurturing home. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any concerns or want to find more information about single man adoptions.

Birth Mother Blog Putting baby up for adoption

Most Common Questions and Answers about LGBTQ+ Adoption in Missouri

June 8, 2023 Adoption Choices of Missouri

Most Common Questions and Answers about LGBTQ+ Adoption in Missouri

By Katy Reagan

If you are facing an unplanned pregnancy, you’re probably thinking about what you want your child’s family to look like. No two families are the same. Some are created biologically, and others through adoption. Some have the traditional mom and dad, others have two moms or two dads, and some have a single parent. There is no right way for a family to look. Adoption Choices of Missouri is a local, licensed private adoption agency. We help you create the family you want, no matter what that looks like.

1. Can Same-Sex or LGBTQ+ Couples Adopt in Missouri?

Yes, LGBTQ+ adoption is completely legal in Missouri. There is no legal difference between a straight or LGBTQ+ couple adopting.

2. What’s the Difference Between Same-Sex Adoption and LGBTQ+ Adoption?

“Same-Sex” and “LGBTQ+” are terms you will see us using interchangeably. Both mean adoptive parents who identify as LGBTQ+. Same-sex adoption is specifically when a child has two moms or two dads. LGBTQ+ adoption is a term that covers everyone who identifies as LGBTQ+. We use both phrases, so when someone searches for information, our agency comes up no matter what phrase they use.

We want to reach everyone we can who is searching for information on their adoption options. That’s why we also include language like “giving child up for adoption” on our website. We prefer the term “placing a child for adoption” rather than “giving up” because you’re not giving up anything. You are making a selfless choice to give your child the best life possible. However, we still use phrases like “how to give a baby up for adoption” because that is a common search.

3. Does Adoption Choices of Missouri Help with LGBTQ+ Adoptions?

Adoption Choices of Missouri supports you in whatever adoptive family you choose. If an LGBTQ+ adoption is something you want to pursue, we can absolutely help.

Once you contact our adoption agency, you are set up with an adoption counselor. This is the person who will take you through the entire adoption process. You sit down with them to create an adoption plan outlining every choice you make. One of the most important decisions is who will adopt your child. You and your adoption counselor will discuss any requests you have about the adoptive family. These could be based on your values, religious preference, where they live, etc. Your adoption counselor will then present you with adoptive family profiles based on these preferences.

If you specifically want an LGBTQ+ couple, you will only see profiles of LGBTQ+ couples. We present you with options for adoptive families that meet any requirements you have.

4. Does Adoption Choices of Missouri Encourage LBGTQ+ Adoption?

Adoption Choices of Missouri does not value any adoptive parents over others. We will not try to influence your choices one way or the other. We simply want to help you with what you think is best for your child.

Each adoptive parent/family is unique in their own way. Each one is also capable of loving and supporting your child. We perform background checks, training, and home visits to ensure they will provide the best home. We even provide adoptive parents with a home study checklist so they can see what they need. As a Missouri Adoption agency, we want to help you find the best fit.

5. Do LGBTQ+ Adoptive Parents Face Discrimination?

The sad reality is that LGBTQ+ individuals still face discrimination in our country based on sexuality. They will likely continue to face discrimination even as loving, supportive parents.

6. Will My Child Face Discrimination if They Have LGBTQ+ Parents?

There are people who pass the judgment of parents onto their children. This means it is a possibility your child will face discrimination because of who their parents are. However, because LGBTQ+ parents may also face discrimination, they will know how to guide your child through it. They will teach your child resilience and empathy.

7. Is the Adoption Process Different for LGBTQ+ Couples in Missouri?

The adoption process can be long and complicated for all adoptive parents. However, adoption agencies do not put any added stress on LGBTQ+ couples. They face the same adoption process as straight couples.

8. What is the Difference Between LGBTQ+ Adoptive Parents and Straight Parents?

There is actually very little difference between LGBTQ+ adoptive parents and straight adoptive parents. Both are capable of creating a loving and stable environment for your child. Although LGBTQ+ couples may have two moms or two dads, your child still grows up loved and supported. The only thing that truly separates LGBTQ+ and straight adoptive parents is sexual orientation.

9. Will My Child Be LGBTQ+ if Their Adoptive Parents Are?

There is no research that says any child raised by LGBTQ+ parents will be LGBTQ+. The sexual orientation of parents doesn’t influence or change the sexual orientation of children. Your child is their own person who will grow to like their own things.

10. What are the Benefits of Choosing an LGBTQ+ Couple to Adopt My Child?

Your child may be more comfortable coming out if they are LGBTQ+ because they grew up in an LGBTQ+ household. An accepting environment does not change their sexual orientation, but it may make them accept who they are. Regardless, your child will grow up to be an open-minded and accepting individual. They will be supportive of others who may face discrimination.

Another benefit of choosing LGBTQ+ adoptive parents is the opportunity you’re giving them. LGBTQ+ couples are less likely to be chosen to adopt simply because of their sexual orientation. When you choose an LGBTQ+ couple, you are making their dream possible despite the obstacles they face. Giving people who are unable to have a child the opportunity to be parents is life-changing.

Choosing LGBTQ+ Adoption in Missouri

At Adoption Choices of Missouri, you and your child are our top priority. We work to accommodate every need and wish you have. Choosing LGBTQ+ adoption in Missouri brings together a new family full of love. Adoption is never an easy decision. Our adoption agency hopes to bring you a little peace by placing your child with a family you trust. If you are pregnant and considering adoption or want more information on adoptive families, contact us today.

Birth Mother Blog Putting baby up for adoption

Pregnancy Adoption Help in Missouri

May 29, 2023 Adoption Choices of Missouri

Pregnancy Adoption Help in Missouri

By Naomi Ruiz

Are you considering adoption and seeking information on how to create a birth plan? Do you feel unsure of where to start with your adoption plan and birth plan? Adoption Choices of Missouri can help you with everything you need to get started and have your plan set in motion.

Adoption Choices of Missouri is committed to providing birth mothers with a full range of services to ensure safety, support, and care. We provide open adoptions and create personal plans to help you through the adoption process. Here is what we can provide and assist you with to begin your adoption journey.

Ways to Get Through the Adoption Process

We have worked with women in need for many years throughout Missouri. Many of them do not have any support and have come to us to talk about their circumstances and pregnancy. At Adoption Choices of Missouri, we provide support counseling to all birth mothers during and after the adoption process.

You can talk about your feelings about giving up your child for adoption with our support counselors. They can also provide emotional support post-placement to see how you are feeling after the adoption plan has already been completed. It can take a lot of time to heal, no matter what stage you are at during and after adoption.

But a technical way to get through the process is for adoptive families to have a professional home study done. Though we take care of the home study, it is a very important step in your adoption help. Home studies gather information about the prospective adoptive family and educate and prepare the prospective family for adoption.

It also evaluates the capability and suitability of the prospective family to adopt. We offer home study services for both domestic and international adoptions. Our adoption specialist can travel to your home to complete your home study, and we will complete it in four short weeks with all documentation in place.

A home study is particularly stressful for prospective adoptive parents. However, it is an integral part of the adoption process. It helps us ensure that your baby goes to a loving, secure, and stable home.

There is also financial assistance during pregnancy, which can play a huge factor in the adoption process. It can be stressful to worry about finances during a rollercoaster ride like adoption. However, we will compensate you for anything you may need during the process.

About Our Financial Assistance

Though you would not be getting paid to give your baby up for adoption, however, if eligible, you might be entitled to receive financial support to cover pregnancy-related expenses you may have. For adoption in Missouri, adoptive parents are able to provide financial assistance during your pregnancy. An adoption counselor can work with you to determine your expenses, which may include the following:

Rent and Utilities
Food
Maternity Clothing
Phone Service
Groceries

We understand that you may need help with money during the adoption. It may be difficult for you to work, live in your current environment, or care for your family while you are pregnant. Especially if your family, friends, or community are not supportive of your pregnancy or adoption decision.

Financial assistance for adoption varies by living situation and stage of pregnancy, as your needs may change throughout the pregnancy as well. Your adoption counselor can get a better understanding of your living situation and financial needs during your pregnancy. She will work as quickly as possible to get you financial assistance, and you might also be eligible to receive it six weeks after your delivery.

One of our other services that come hand-in-hand with your financial assistance is safe housing. Not having adequate housing or a safe place to sleep can lead to unnecessary stress and discomfort. It is essential for you to find a place that is free from abuse, violence, and other potential hazards.

We can help you find and afford proper housing so you can rest easy without any additional worry. A safe home can provide the comfort and security necessary to make a well-informed decision about your future and your child’s future. It can also provide you with a solid foundation to begin your journey toward a healthier, fulfilling life for you and your child.

Birth Mother Blog Putting baby up for adoption

Self-Care Tips For Birth Mothers in MO During May

May 22, 2023 Adoption Choices of Missouri

Self-Care Tips For Birth Mothers in MO During May

By Kyle Gray

Being a birth mother is never easy, and the month of May can make it harder with the lead-up to Mother’s Day. Adoption Choices Of Missouri is aware of this pain and is here to help expectant mothers face this head-on. The adoption process is not always easy for expectant mothers and can make coping with this sensitive decision much more difficult. Whether you are confident or unsure about your decision, practicing self-care should always be a priority.

1. Know That Adoption Help Is Available

As a birth mother, knowing who is there for you and what resources are available is essential. Without that, carrying a pregnancy to term can become much more hectic and obstacle-filled. The last thing any birth mother needs is more stress, which can harm both the mother and the child.

The first step in self-care during pregnancy is asking, “What adoption agencies are near me? Regarding adoption agencies in Missouri, Adoption Choices is here to help any birth mother. With our top-of-the-line staff and support available 24 hours a day.

When you are ready to start the adoption process, our specialists will assist in building an adoption plan.

2. Journal and Track Your Pregnancy

The journey of carrying a planned or unplanned pregnancy to term is filled with many emotional twists and turns. As hormones fluctuate and send you through the spectrum of emotions, feeling disconnected and out of touch is natural. One of the most efficient ways to build a better understanding of your pregnancy is by journaling. While this may seem like more a chore than a fun activity, it is very much in your best interest.

The easiest way to start journaling is by listing any present or very pressing thoughts. Your journal entries can be about anything and should serve as a means of self-reflection. As you track your emotional and physical progress as a birth mother, some questions may arise, especially regarding adoption. No matter what, always know that help is available from adoption agencies in Missouri.

3. During Your Unplanned Pregnancy, Invest In Yourself and Your Hobbies

As a birth mother, putting responsibilities and the needs of others, especially your child, before yourself is common. However, if you are not careful, this can quickly lead to a sense of feeling burnt out and tired. That is why it is suggested that birth mothers take time for themselves and focus on what makes them happy.

This method of self-care is built for birth mothers to reconnect with themselves and indulge in their interests and hobbies. There is no wrong way to go about this, and it depends on what suits your desires. Feel free to take a break and catch up on your favorite shows or reading. Get outside and go for a walk, or tend to your plants and garden. Finally, go on that trip you have been thinking about for a while and let yourself have some fun. The main point is that you, as a birth mother, put your happiness first and do whatever brings joy.

4. Focus On Your Pregnancy And Adoption Journey As A Birth Mother

As women traverse different stages of their pregnancy, it is common to question what is going right and wrong. There is nothing wrong with that; looking inward is an excellent method of self-care. However, it can become problematic if the perspective shifts and fixates on other birth mothers.

One of the most harmful things a birth mother can do is compare themselves to other birth mothers. Comparison is a natural way of thinking but always leads to more issues than solutions. Everyone’s journey is different and unique to them. Focusing on yourself and your baby is one of the best things you can do during the adoption process.

5. Build A Safe Environment With Adoption Agencies In Missouri

For any birth mother, pregnant or postpartum, it is crucial to provide a safe environment for your child. You and your child’s physical and mental safety should never be questioned. Adoption Choices of Missouri is here to help if you need assistance to ensure both of you are safe.

Prioritizing Self-Care For Birth Mothers In Missouri

For Adoption Choices of Missouri, the safety and well-being of a birth mother and her child is our top priority. We understand the struggles of parenthood, and if you feel lost, Adoption Choices is here to help. We will assist in any way to ensure you provide your child with the life you want for them.

Birth Mother Blog Putting baby up for adoption

What is the Difference Between an Expectant Mother, a Birth Mother, and an Adoptive Mother?

May 18, 2023 Adoption Choices of Missouri

What is the Difference Between an Expectant Mother, a Birth Mother, and an Adoptive Mother?

By Jordan Smith

Are you a woman who is pregnant and considering adoption? We are providing information about three specific terms used during the adoption process. The three most important terms used here at Adoption Choices of Missouri are expectant mother, birth mother, and adoptive mother. Each of these terms is unique in its own way, just as the term inscribes.

We find it crucial that you know the differences between these three terms because they each play a different role in adoption. Expectant mothers, birth mothers, and adoptive mothers each play important roles during the adoption process. First, each is greeted and treated with the utmost respect.

What are the Three Terms for Each of the Three Different Mothers?

Contact us anytime to discuss the What is the difference between an Expectant Mother, a Birth Mother, and an Adoptive Mother.

What is an Expectant Mother?

An expectant mother is a woman who is expecting a baby and is considering adoption. It also means that this mother has not begun the adoption process yet but is considering and looking into it. When experiencing an unplanned pregnancy and thinking about adopting makes the decision hard and difficult to do. It is completely understandable for the expectant mother to take some time before making the final choice to adopt. The expectant mother is seeking out all her options. When the time comes, she can make the best decision she sees fit for her and her baby.

Who is the Birth Mother?

A birth mother is a woman who is already working on her adoption process and has already decided on adoption. This could mean that this mother is giving her child up for adoption or is working on her adoption plan. Adoption Choices of Missouri works closely with birth mothers to establish positive adoption experiences and to provide them with helpful resources. Birth mothers are assigned an adoption counselor who will assist with developing a unique adoption plan and any resources that may be needed.

What Role Does an Adoptive Mother Play in the Process?

An adoptive mother is a woman who is working to adopt a child, and at Adoption Choices of Missouri, there are a lot of women seeking to adopt. This mother would have been working with the private adoption agency for a while to achieve the goal of adopting a child. These mothers would be working hard and taking the proper steps to establish a good relationship with Adoption Choices of Missouri and make for a positive adoption placement.

Why is it Important to Use These Adoption Terms Separately?

The terminology that is used here at Adoption Choices of Missouri is to have respectful terms for important individuals in the adoption process. Terms such as expectant mother, birth mother, and adoptive mother are all important in their own individual role in adoption. We find it important to use these terms so their obvious roles are respectfully noticed during the adoption process.

Any mother who works with Adoption Choices of Missouri will be supported and treated with the same amount of respect as every other mother. We have a no coercion and no pressure policy. Our professionals support each of the individuals involved in the adoption process’s decisions and any choices they may make.

Adoption Choices of Missouri’s Terminology are Helpful

Here at Adoption Choices of Missouri, it is crucial for everyone involved in the adoption process to know the terms in which they may encounter. Using such terms can make the adoption process run smoothly, allowing our staff to know the proper role each individual has. Expectant mothers who are new to adoption and are looking into adoption will find these terms helpful. Birth mothers who are either at the beginning of the adoption plan or post-placement would benefit from using these terms. Adoptive mothers who work with Adoption Choices of Missouri would also benefit from using the terms. To distinguish every party involved in the adoption process in a respectful way.

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