FAQs
How Do I Get Started?
You can contact us at any time during your pregnancy and delivery, or after your child is here. We are available for birthparents by text or cell phone (509-413-6193) on a 24-hour basis. You can also leave an email message on our website (Adoptionservicesspokane.com). We often are asked if there is enough time to make a plan after delivery – and the answer is YES. If you are parenting a young child and/or you have a child in foster care and want to explore your options, do not hesitate to call us.
How Do I Pick a Family for My Child?
If you are considering adoption, we will provide you with books with information and pictures of approved adoptive couples. These are couples who are unable to have a child and are ready to start their family. Once you select an adoptive couple, we will arrange a time for you to meet with the chosen couple at our office to make sure that you are comfortable with your choice.
If you decide to go forward with the couple that you chose, we will assist you in developing a relationship with that couple during your pregnancy. That relationship is determined by you. Some birthmothers want regular contact; some want little or no contact.
What Support Is Available During My Pregnancy?
Our Agency offers emergency funds for a phone, bus pass, food, clothing, shelter and other essential needs. This is available for pregnant women who are considering adoption and need time to sort out their needs and plans for the baby. The help is without obligation to place for adoption.
Additionally, we provide caring (not intrusive) emotional support. We are available by text or phone 24/7 and you can have all the privacy you need in making this decision. Your rights are explained fully and your information remains confidential.
Is Counseling Available?
We can assist you in clarifying your needs, hopes, and fears about this process. Counseling time is confidential, personal and offered at no charge to you. Whatever your final decision, you will have our support during and afterwards. This is your child and your life.
Can I Change My Mind?
Yes. You are not committed to the adoption until after the birth of your baby and you have made the final choice to place with your baby with the adoptive couple of your choice. Paperwork is not filed with the Court until at least 2 days after birth, giving you time to make your final decision.
What is the Relationship After the Placement?
Many of our birthparents have maintained lifelong friendships with their adoptive family and others have chosen to have little or sporadic contact post placement. Some birthparents prefer to not maintain contact but can go forward in life with peace of mind and also knowing they can request contact anytime in the future. Either choice is very normal and respected. Contact after the placement is guaranteed to be available by signed agreements filed with the court. The level of contact is face to face, by email / text, letters and pictures and is determined by the wishes of the birthparent(s).
Where Do the Adoptive Families Come From?
Our adoptive families are from Washington and Northern Idaho.
Do You Use Foster Care?
No. We take the position that your child should be with you or with the adoptive parents of your choice. We will help you develop the birth and placement plan that is unique to your needs.
Does the Birthfather of my Baby Have Any Rights?
Yes. The birthfather has parental rights and our Agency will communicate with the birthfather to see if he will support you in your adoption plan. You may also include the birthfather in your adoption plan if you choose. If you do not have a relationship with the birthfather or you are choosing not to have a relationship with the birthfather, we will handle all communication and give the birthfather all necessary notices. We will do everything we can to support and protect you.
If the adoptive couple lives out of our area, we request they spend several days post birth here to remain in contact and so birthparents can see their baby out of the hospital. We have learned that birthparent need for contact with their baby is very individual and deserves utmost respect for a smooth transition.