The Domestic Adoption Process
View the Adoption
Procedures excerpt from ASA's
Application Book
ASA is a
pioneer in identified (or semi-open) adoptions. Semi-open adoptions are now
the most popular choice for both birth parents and adoptive parents. This
process typically involves the exchange of first names, relevant family histories
and occupations, and often, pictures of the child throughout childhood.
Birth parents are growing more sophisticated as they learn more about
their options when placing their baby, and have come to expect and demand
certain levels of support throughout the process. ASA has anticipated needs
and expectations to change over the years and we have developed a program
of special support and encouragement for our adoptive parents.
Called "Parents - in - Partnership", our program is designed to help all of
the adopting parties work together to provide the child with the best possible
solution. ASA is committed to the principle of identified (semi-open) adoption. However,
we have the experience, flexibility and creativity to tailor each case to
meet the needs and expectations of the client we serve. The best interests
of the child are paramount, but ASA doesn't neglect the emotional needs and
comfort level of birth parents and adoptive parents.
Every member of the ASA staff works to bring all of these considerations together
to ensure a successful placement. Counseling is the key to the long-term success
of adoption, and this is probably the biggest benefit to using an agency.
ASA has on-staff counselors who are very experienced
in the many aspects of the adoption process and are available 24 hours a day.
Support is provided to the birth parents during the months before and after
the baby's birth to help satisfy their emotional needs. Adoptive parent counseling
is also available for parents-to-be as they sort through the many special
emotions and pressures relating to adoption.
Parents
- in - Partnership
If you're ready to accept the challenge, we're here to help you. Recognizing
that adopting parents and birth mothers are interested in the long-term happiness
of the child, our new program is designed to help all of the adopting parties
work together to provide the child with the best possible situation. Our program
creates a safe and confidential format where adoptive parents take an active
role in finding and selecting the birth mother. And a pregnant woman considering
adoption has peace of mind knowing she has found a haven for her child.
At Adoption
Services Associates, we ease the stress on adopting parents by helping you
locate and screen the birth mother. We also facilitate the level of communication
comfortable for all parties. Financial and logistical arrangements are streamlined
because we handle the birth mothers' daily needs. These may include housing,
medical expenses and any necessary transportation costs. We provide ongoing
support to you through our periodic newsletters and seminars. Finally, we
help simplify and expedite the necessary legal arrangements.
We're ready to help you take the next step. Make your dreams of building a
family come true. You're invited to become one of our very special Parents
- in - Partnership.
For
more information please call Jim McMahon at (210) 699-6094
Or e-mail us at: adopt@adoptionservicesassociates.org