Private adoptions were often coordinated between a physician and an attorney on behalf of a patient and adoptive couple. The tides have changed and today there are many more options open to all parties in what is now commonly referred to as the adoption triad. The once closed doors of adoption have sprung open with an ever increasing amount of information becoming available and more avenues open for birthparents and adoptive families to pursue. One of the changes in adoption today is that adoptive parents and birthparents have a choice on who to turn to when adopting or placing a child for adoption. Following is a description and comparison of the various parties who assist in facilitation of adoption.
Public agencies are usually non-profit organizations which are affiliated with a government agency.
Private agencies may be privately owned and operated businesses or may be affiliated with a religious or other social service organization. In the case of both public and private agencies, state licensed social workers assist birthparents and adoptive families in the adoption process. However, adoption facilitators are now a growing member in the adoption community. In most instances, adoption facilitators are themselves adoptive parents who take on the task of helping others adopt. They possess a wealth of knowledge gained through their personal experiences and radiate enthusiasm and passion.