Choose the Adoption Plan That Feels Right for You
Adoption can look different for every expectant parent. Some want an ongoing relationship with the adoptive family, while others prefer communication through the agency or very limited contact.
Open Arms Adoption Co. is here to help you understand your choices and create an adoption plan based on what feels right for you.
There Is No One-Size-Fits-All Adoption Plan
Open, semi-open, and closed adoption describe different approaches to communication and contact between birth parents and adoptive families. Your caseworker can help you understand each option and discuss what may work best for your circumstances.
What Each Adoption Type Can Look Like
The exact details of an adoption plan can vary. These descriptions are meant to help you understand the general differences between the three approaches.
Open Adoption
In an open adoption, the birth parent and adoptive family may maintain a relationship after placement. The amount and type of communication can be discussed as part of the adoption plan.
Some families may exchange photos and updates, communicate by phone or video, or arrange in-person contact when appropriate.
Your caseworker can help you talk through the type of relationship and communication you would feel comfortable with.
Semi-Open Adoption
A semi-open adoption may allow ongoing updates or communication while giving the birth parent and adoptive family additional privacy.
Communication may take place through Open Arms, another professional, or an agreed secure method rather than through direct personal contact.
This option may be helpful for someone who wants to receive updates while maintaining clearer boundaries.
Closed Adoption
A closed adoption generally provides the greatest level of privacy and involves little or no direct communication between the birth parent and adoptive family after placement.
Information-sharing and future contact can depend on the circumstances of the adoption and applicable legal requirements.
Your caseworker can help you understand what a closed adoption could mean for you.
Your Adoption Plan Can Reflect Your Comfort Level
Communication is one part of your adoption plan. You can talk openly with your caseworker about what you would and would not feel comfortable with.
You Can Discuss Your Preferences
You may want to talk about how often you would like updates, what type of communication you prefer, whether communication should go through the agency, and what boundaries are important to you.
The Plan Can Be Personal
Every adoption situation is different. Your caseworker can help you understand available options and coordinate communication with the prospective adoptive family when appropriate.
You Can Ask Questions
You do not need to know which type of adoption you want before contacting Open Arms. We can explain the differences and answer your questions confidentially.
Your Privacy Matters
Your personal information and adoption circumstances should be handled carefully. Our team can explain how communication and information-sharing are managed throughout the process.
Your Caseworker Can Help You Build Your Adoption Plan
You do not have to choose an adoption type before you contact us.
During your conversations with Open Arms, your caseworker can help you explore your options, talk through your hopes and concerns, and understand how different types of adoption may work.
The goal is to help you make an informed decision based on your circumstances and what you feel is best for you and your child.
What Your Plan May Include
Depending on your circumstances, your adoption plan may address communication preferences, adoptive-family preferences, birth and hospital planning, contact expectations, legal considerations, and post-placement communication.
Your caseworker can explain which parts of the plan may be flexible and which matters may be affected by applicable law or professional requirements.
When Do You Choose an Adoption Type?
You can begin the conversation before you know exactly what you want. Your adoption plan can develop as you receive information and support.
Reach Out
Contact Open Arms and speak confidentially with our team about your situation and options.
Talk Through Options
Your caseworker explains open, semi-open, and closed adoption and answers your questions.
Create Your Plan
You can discuss your preferences for an adoptive family, communication, birth planning, and other important parts of your adoption journey.
Move Forward With Support
Open Arms continues to coordinate support and professional services throughout the adoption process.
Adoption Types FAQ
Do I have to choose an adoption type before contacting Open Arms?
No. You can contact us before you know which type of adoption you want. Your caseworker can explain your options and help you think through what may feel right for you.
Can I choose the adoptive family?
You can discuss your preferences for an adoptive family with your caseworker. Open Arms can help you review appropriate family profiles and understand the matching process.
Can I have communication with the adoptive family?
Depending on your adoption plan, there may be different ways to communicate with an adoptive family. Your caseworker can help you discuss your preferences and available options.
What if I change my mind about what type of adoption I want?
Talk with your caseworker as your circumstances and feelings develop. Adoption planning involves important decisions, and your caseworker can help you understand your options and any legal considerations that may apply.
Can I meet or communicate with a prospective adoptive family before birth?
Depending on the circumstances and the preferences of everyone involved, communication or other contact may be possible. Open Arms can help coordinate appropriate communication and explain the process.
Which adoption type is best?
There is no single adoption type that is best for everyone. The right plan depends on your circumstances, preferences, comfort level, and the applicable legal and professional requirements of your adoption.
You Don't Have to Have All the Answers Today
If you are pregnant and considering adoption, Open Arms Adoption Co. is here to listen, answer your questions, and help you understand your options without pressure.