What is an adoption consultant?

An adoption consultant acts as a professional guide and coach throughout the domestic adoption process. The adoption process can be very complicated, and many families find it confusing and overwhelming. Hopeful adoptive parents often turn to Google to find information, but there’s too much information to make sense of it all. An adoption consultant is an expert who knows the ins-and-outs of the process—someone who can help you navigate the system, help you make the best possible decisions, network with those who work with birth parents, and produce a life-changing outcome: saying Hello Baby!

What do adoption consultants do?

Adoption consultants help hopeful adoptive families navigate the adoption process. As each step of the adoption process unfolds, we provide expert adoption support and guidance along the way, until you say hello to your baby.

Are adoption consultants worth it?

We sure think so, and so do our clients. Any missteps in the adoption process can cause emotional and financial loss as well as increased wait times.

We are already working with an agency but are exploring our options. Can we still work with you?

Yes! It’s not uncommon for families to sign up with one agency and, after waiting for a while, start wondering if there are other options out there for them.

Am I required to use an adoption consultant?

No, you are not.

Do adoption consultants work with expectant mothers?

No, we refer you to agencies and attorneys that do.

What qualifications do I need to meet in order to adopt?

The qualifications differ by state and the policies of the agencies you work with.

What is the first step in the adoption process?

You must complete a home study.

What is a home study?

No matter what type of adoption you choose, you will need to undergo a home study in which an adoption professional evaluates your family and home environment to ensure the safety and well-being a child. After the evaluation is completed, the adoption professional produces a 10-20 page report. The report is called a home study. Every family needs to have a completed and approved home study in order to adopt.

How much does it cost to adopt?

The cost depends on a variety of factors, but the average is $50,000.

Why does it cost so much to adopt?

Private adoption involves many factors and expenses and is funded by fees that are charged to the adopting family. The fees cover a range of costs, including agency fees, legal work, casework, counseling, and birth mother expenses.

Do you work with families who live in New York or New Jersey? 

At this time, we are no longer accepting new families from New York or New Jersey.

Am I too old to adopt?

Probably not. Most adoptive families are in their thirties or forties. Families in their fifties are able to adopt, but they might be more limited in their choice of agencies.

Can single parents adopt? 

Yes, you can adopt.

Can I be in a same-sex relationship and adopt? 

Yes!

What is the average wait time to adopt?

The wait time to adopt depends on a variety of factors, but most people are successful within a few months to two years after getting an approved home study.

What if the expectant mother chooses to parent instead of placing the baby for adoption?

If that happens, the adoption agency will usually place you on a high priority list for upcoming births. The return or rollover of fees varies by agency. We will continue to work with you until you bring home your baby.

Can I name the baby?

Yes!