Adoption by State
Your Guide to Adoption Agencies in Maryland
After so much time spent searching, finding a Maryland adoption agency that meets all of your needs can be a rewarding experience. But, when you have so many professionals to choose from, getting started can be overwhelming. Check out this guide for answers to all of your questions when it comes to Maryland adoption agencies.
Why Should You Use an Adoption Agency in Maryland?
Whether you’re a hopeful adoptive parent or a prospective birth mother, there are many choices when it comes to adoption professionals. One of those options is to work with an adoption agency in Maryland. With this type of organization, you’ll have the security of knowing that you’re working with a professional that will support you from beginning to end. While there are some circumstances where it might be better to complete an independent adoption, we’d still suggest the services of an adoption agency in Maryland. Whatever path you’re considering, it’s a good idea to reach out to an adoption agency to learn more, just in case.
Types of Adoption Agencies
There are quite a few types of adoption agencies in Maryland that you might consider. The right one for you will depend on a number of factors.
To learn more, we’ve written brief descriptions for every type of adoption agency in Maryland.
Private Adoption Agencies in Maryland
Private adoption agencies in Maryland, also known as domestic adoption agencies, are one of the most well-known ways to grow a family through adoption. This type of adoption is best suited for hopeful families looking to adopt a newborn or an infant. Although it is possible to adopt an older child through this type of agency, that’s usually better suited for foster or international adoption agencies.
If you’re hoping to work with a domestic adoption agency in Maryland, you’ll have two options to consider: a national adoption agency or a local adoption agency. They each have their own pros and cons, so it’s up to you to decide which is right for you. While national adoption agencies are typically the preferred option, there are many reasons why you might choose to work with a local adoption agency near you.
To help you learn more, we’ve listed a few suggestions for both types of agencies:
National Adoption Agencies:
Local Adoption Agencies:
Foster Care Agencies in Maryland
Whether you’re hoping to adopt from foster care or get involved by becoming a foster parent, there are countless ways that you can get started in Maryland. Every year, thousands of children enter foster care in Maryland hoping for permanent or temporary homes. You can make a difference in their lives today.
While there are some important differences with this type of adoption that you need to be aware of, it can be an extremely rewarding experience. If you believe that a foster care and adoption agency in Maryland is right for you, below are a few that you can contact:
International Adoption Agencies in Maryland
Adopting a child from other country is one of the greatest opportunities for hopeful families in Maryland. If this sounds like the right option for you, there’s a lot to consider before you get started. The best way to learn more is to reach out to an international adoption agency in Maryland:
Home Study Adoption Agencies in Maryland
The home study is the first stepping stone towards becoming an adoptive parent. This is a requirement for every type of adoption, and it must be completed prior to welcoming a child into your home. The process itself can vary depending on who you’re working with and the type of adoption you’re pursuing. However, it typically consists of documentation and an in‐home visit.
Your home study will also be one of the lengthiest parts of your adoption. Because of this, we recommend contacting a home study professional in Maryland as soon as possible. Remember, if you’re working with a national adoption agency that’s licensed in Maryland, they can often help you complete your home study. If not, you’ll want to work with one of the local home study agencies near you:
Adoption Agencies in Maryland for Prospective Birth Mothers
We know that you probably have a lot of questions on your mind if you’re facing an unplanned pregnancy. That’s where an adoption agency in Maryland comes in. By providing answers to questions about all of your unplanned pregnancy options — not just adoption — an adoption specialist can help you get started.
During your research, remember to look for a Maryland adoption agency that offers important services like:
- Financial assistance
- 24/7 counseling and support
- Contact mediation before and after the adoption
- And more
When you’re a prospective birth mother, only the best adoption agencies in Maryland should make it on your list. Below are a few that you might consider contacting:
Always remember that adoption is never an obligation. No matter who you choose to call, you are entitled to receive free information about all of your unplanned pregnancy options — not just adoption.
Start Your Search Today
Choosing an adoption agency is a very personal decision. This means there’s no right or wrong answers, so look for a professional that feels right for you. When you’ve found the perfect fit, give them a call for more information about the services they offer and the requirements for making an adoption plan with their agency. During your research, keep in mind the types of agencies we’ve mentioned above to help you make the most informed decision.
