Contact adoption support groups that you’ve
identified and ask if there are people willing to talk to prospective adoptive
parents; adoptive parents love to talk about their experience so you’ll probably
get lots of names. Call people and ask for their recommendations about
adoption agencies. Second, find out when the groups meet and attend meetings. You will
find lots of people who will be thrilled to help you out with recommendations,
advice, etc.
We have found that one of the most
complete internet listings of adoption professionals of all kinds is at this
link: http://directory.adoption.com.
Alternatively, look under adoption in the yellow pages of your telephone book
to find names.
Take this job very seriously. It is
critical to find a qualified, reputable person or group to use for your
adoption.
Agencies
The task is easier if you are selecting
an agency because adoption agencies must be licensed by the state they operate
in and licensure requires that they meet certain operating standards. That
means that you can count on licensed adoption agencies to bring at least the minimum
qualifications to the relationship.
Adoption Attorneys
Adoption attorneys operate based on
a code of ethics and are under the supervision of the Bar Association in your
state. Consequently, a currently licensed attorney with a specialty in adoption
practice should have the necessary qualifications.
Independent Facilitators
The most difficult and frankly, risky situation is the
independent adoption facilitator. There are no specific credentials or license
for this work so facilitators come from a variety of backgrounds with varied training,
skills and networks.
