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AdoptionCenter Editorial Team
·Updated June 29, 2026·Last reviewed June 29, 2026·AdoptionCenter
Understand adoption agency services, licensing, matching, counseling, home studies, placement, records, and the limits of an agency's role.
An adoption agency may provide social-work, assessment, matching, placement, supervision, counseling, and post-adoption services. Its legal authority depends on licensing, state law, adoption type, and international accreditation.
Common agency services
Orientation and education
Home studies
Expectant-parent counseling
Matching
Placement
Background coordination
Post-placement supervision
Records
Post-adoption services
What agencies do not automatically do
An agency does not automatically:
Represent every party legally
Guarantee consent or placement
Guarantee immigration approval
Guarantee subsidy
Control a parent’s hospital decisions
Make a closed country program open
Provide independent legal advice
Conflicts and transparency
Ask:
Who pays for counseling?
Who represents the parent?
Who represents the agency?
What services are subcontracted?
What happens after a disrupted match?
Who preserves records?
What remains available after finalization?
Post-adoption services
Services may include counseling referrals, support groups, search and reunion help, contact mediation, records assistance, crisis support, and required international reports.
Verify the agency’s current license, authority, services, and contracts directly.
Find adoption agencies and service providers
Browse adoption agencies and service providers listed across the United States. Confirm current licensing and services directly with the appropriate state or federal authority.
AdoptionCenter.us provides directory information and educational resources. A listing is not an endorsement or guarantee. Confirm current licensing, accreditation, services, fees, and disciplinary history directly with the appropriate authority before selecting a provider.