Adoption is a compassionate process that can connect people who wish to be parents with children in need of a home. Adoption provides an opportunity for pregnant women who are not yet ready to be mothers. You can place your child for adoption through an adoption agency. Many women choose to take advantage of open adoption, a type of adoption that encourages communication between birth parents and their children.

The decision to place a baby for adoption can be emotionally difficult. Open adoption services strive to make the process as easy as possible by providing counseling services. Here are a few reasons to take advantage of these services:

1. Make sure you're making the right decision.

Placing your child for adoption is a big decision that will affect you, your child, and your child's adoptive family for the rest of your lives. Adoption can be a very positive thing for everyone involved. However, you must be certain that you're making the right choice. Many women feel stressed and confused when dealing with an unplanned pregnancy. An adoption counselor can help you clarify your desires. When you feel certain about your decision, you can proceed with the adoption process confidently.

2. Come to terms with your emotions.

It's common for women to experience a range of emotions when deciding to place their babies for adoption. You may feel sad, relieved, or even angry at your circumstances. Each of these emotions is valid, although they may feel uncomfortable. An adoption counselor can help you uncover your feelings so you can come to terms with them. It's important to face your grief and anger so you can move forward in your life.

3. Figure out how to approach the adoption process.

When you place your baby for adoption, you will have as much or as little control over the process as you desire. You can choose an adoptive family for your child if you want. A counselor can help you figure out how involved you'd like to be in the process.

4. Make a plan for the future.

By choosing an open adoption, you create the opportunity to have a relationship with your child. Open adoptions encourage birth parents to visit their children, write letters, and keep in touch through phone calls. The level and type of communication you'll have with your child depends on your desires and the desires of your child's adoptive family. In counseling, you can make plans for the future of your relationship with your child.