Key Takeaways
- Spence-Chapin is a leading adoption agency serving New Jersey, New York City, and Upstate New York, with more than 115 years of experience supporting birth parents, adoptive families, and adopted individuals
- If you are pregnant or considering adoption after birth in New York or New Jersey, these six facts can help you understand your options
- Adoption planning is free, confidential, and always guided by your choices
- You can choose the adoptive family, including families open to children with medical needs
- Most adoptions today in New York and New Jersey include some level of openness with ongoing contact
- Spence-Chapin has offices in the Bronx, Manhattan, Queens, Long Island, Albany, Buffalo, and Newark, with support available statewide
At Spence-Chapin, we believe every child deserves a safe, permanent, and loving family. For more than 115 years, we have supported individuals and families through adoption with care, transparency, and respect.
We are committed to providing unbiased counseling and empowering birth parents across New York and New Jersey as they navigate one of life’s most personal decisions. Our team focuses on informed choice, emotional support, and lifelong resources for everyone involved in the adoption journey.
1. Adoption Counseling Should Be Free and Unbiased
If you are considering adoption in New York or New Jersey, you should have access to free, nonjudgmental counseling. You should never feel rushed or pressured into making a decision. Ethical agencies provide space to explore all options, including parenting and adoption, so you can make a choice that feels right for you and your child.
2. Adoption Is a Loving Choice With the Best Interest of the Child at Its Core
Many people consider adoption for deeply thoughtful and loving reasons, with the best interest of their child at the center. It often reflects a desire to create stability, opportunity, and long-term well-being. Adoption planning allows parents to make a loving choice without judgment.
3. You Stay in Control and Can Choose the Adoptive Family
In New York and New Jersey, birth parents working with Spence-Chapin can remain in full control of their adoption plan. This includes the ability to choose the adoptive family.
You can:
- Review adoptive family profiles
- Learn about their values, lifestyle, and parenting approach
- Meet or communicate with families if you choose
- Select the family that feels right for your child
Spence-Chapin works with a diverse range of families, including different cultural, religious, and family structures.
4. Many Adoptive Families Are Prepared to Adopt Children with Special Medical Needs
Spence-Chapin works with adoptive families who are specifically prepared and trained to care for children with medical or developmental needs. This ensures that every child is matched with a family ready to provide appropriate care, support, and stability.
5. Placing a Child for Adoption Is Available to Anyone, Regardless of Age or Immigration Status
In New York and New Jersey, adoption is available to anyone considering this path, regardless of age, immigration status, or background. All conversations with Spence-Chapin are confidential. Immigration status is not reported when you reach out for counseling or support.
6. Most Adoptions Today Are Open
Open adoption is common across New York and New Jersey and allows ongoing contact between birth parents, adoptive families, and children.
Open adoption may include:
- Letters, emails, or photos
- Video calls and phone calls
- In-person visits
Many birth parents who participate in open adoption report peace of mind as they remain connected to their child’s life and see their child grow up in a happy, loving home.
Conclusion
With offices across the Bronx, Manhattan, Queens, Long Island, Albany, Buffalo, and Newark, Spence-Chapin is a trusted adoption agency serving families throughout New York and New Jersey.
If you are pregnant or considering adoption after birth, you do not have to navigate this alone. Our team is here to provide free, confidential, and pressure free counseling so you can understand your options and move forward at your own pace.
Frequently Asked Questions About Adoption in New York and New Jersey
Can I place my child for adoption if I am unsure?
Yes. You can speak with a licensed social worker at any time. Support is free, confidential, and pressure-free.
Who chooses the adoptive family?
Birth parents can review profiles, learn about families, and choose the adoptive family that feels right for their child.
Are there families prepared for children with medical needs?
Yes. Spence-Chapin works with trained adoptive families who are prepared to care for children with a range of medical needs.
Does Spence-Chapin support open adoption?
Yes. Spence-Chapin supports open adoption whenever possible and provides guidance to help families build healthy, respectful relationships. Most domestic infant adoptions today are open. Open adoption allows birth parents to maintain contact, while the level of contact is agreed upon by all parties.
Where is Spence-Chapin located?
Spence-Chapin has offices in the Bronx, Manhattan, Queens, Long Island, Albany, Buffalo, and Newark, and provides adoption services and counseling throughout New York and New Jersey.
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