Every adoption situation is as unique as the individuals who are involved in it. Today, those who are looking to adopt have many options available to help them in their search for a child. For many reasons people often choose to use an adoption facilitator. Here are tips to guide you in the selection process.
Adoption Facilitator 101
An adoption facilitator is someone who coordinates or arranges an adoption by “matching” a birth mother with prospective adoptive parents. Some may be licensed social workers or adoption attorneys, although most hold no license at all.
It is important to check with your state regarding the laws regulating adoptions, specifically adoption facilitators, as some states prohibit the use of adoption facilitators altogether. In many states, it will also be necessary to retain an attorney for finalization, thereby adding to the total cost of the adoption.
Adoption facilitators have received a lot of bad press over the years. As with any profession, there are individuals who give that profession a bad name. Unfortunately, due to the high monetary and emotional stakes involved in adoption, there are people who are willing to take advantage of the heart-strings and purse-strings of hopeful parents who are eagerly seeking a child to call their own.
Despite the bad reputation that facilitators have received, there are still some reputable facilitators who have coordinated many successful adoptions resulting in delighted clients and happy families.
Finding a Qualified Adoption Facilitator
Perhaps in the area of adoption facilitators more than any other, it is extremely important to do your research. Failing to do so could result in getting scammed and losing a substantial amount of money.
Questions for an Adoption Facilitator
- What are your credentials?
- Are you licensed? What are you licensed for (i.e. social worker, attorney, etc.)?
- How many adoptions have you coordinated?
- How many fell through?
- What is your fee structure?
- What services are included in your fees?
- How do you locate birth mothers and what services do you provide for them?
- Ask to see a copy of their contract for review.
- Ask for references from families who have utilized their services. Then make a list of questions and contact the references.
Questions to Ask References
- Are they pleased with the services that the facilitator provided?
- Were they professional and did they genuinely care?
- Tell about your experience with this facilitator. What was positive about it? Negative?
Additional Information to Obtain
- Contact the Better Business Bureau and ask if the facilitator is in good standing.
- If the facilitator is licensed, check with the governing licensing agency or board to see if their license is in good standing with the state they are licensed in. Has there been any record of poor business practices or other improper behavior?
Some facilitators charge nearly as much as adoption agencies do, often without the same number of services that agencies are able to offer. Be sure to get a clear picture of their fee structure and what services you will receive in return.
Furthermore, a facilitator who charges nominal fees is a possible red flag, too. Providing adoption services costs money and fees should reasonably reflect that fact.
In Conclusion
Adoption is an emotional rollercoaster with no guarantees. You should steer clear of an adoption facilitator who promises a successful adoption. When there are human beings and emotions involved, anything can happen, and adoptions do fall through occasionally. However, with a little patience and perseverance, it is quite possible that you will soon be holding your new little one in your arms.
Related Articles:
Adoption Placement Coordinators
Choosing an Adoption Agency
The Financial Aspect of Adopting
Crystal Killion - Crystal Killion is a freelance writer and mother of five. She has worked with children in various capacities for over 20 years as a ...
