Types of Adoption

If adoption is your choice, CHS is here to support you. An experienced, caring CHS social worker will be there to help you through this important decision-making time. 

An adoption plan is the plan you make for your future and your child’s future. This includes choosing the type of adoption you would like and choosing any or all of the following options as part of the adoption.

• Receiving pictures and reports of your child's progress. 
  
• Having an anonymous meeting with the adoptive family before or after your child's birth. 
  
• Placing your child with the adoptive family directly from the hospital. 
  
• The level of openness of the adoption.
  
• Designating a specific family to adopt your child or choose from CHS approved families. 
  
• Having on-going exchange of pictures and information. 

Open Adoption
In an open adoption, the birth parent can specify the family who adopts their child. The adoptive family and the birth family share information and may even meet each other. The birth parent and adoptive family may be in touch before the adoption and they may stay in touch for months or years. In some cases, they stay in touch throughout the child’s life.

Semi-Open Adoption
In semi-open adoption, the birth parent may specify particular characteristics with regard to the adoptive family. The birth parents may also meet the adoptive parents either pre-delivery or after placement on a first name basis. After placement, the client may receive pictures and letters from the adoptive family through the agency.

Closed Adoption
A closed adoption is one in which the birth parent and adoptive family cannot get in touch with each other at any time. All health and social information given to the adoptive family for the benefit of the child is non-identifying. The birth parent will not have access to information about their child’s health or whereabouts.

The type of adoption that is best for you is your decision. As you ask questions, talk with a social worker, and get more facts about adoption, you will feel better prepared to make a choice. You can always change your mind as things go along. No one will pressure you into choosing one way or another. You have the chance to make the best decision for yourself and your child.

For more information, please call 1-800-632-1400 or contact us.