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Open, Closed, or Semi-Open? Understanding Adoption Types for Birth Mothers

Adoption Options

When considering adoption options, one of the most important decisions a birth mother makes is selecting the right adoption plan that suits her child. There are three types of adoptions available for birth mothers: closed, semi-open, and open adoption.

Each plan offers different levels of communication and involvement between the birth mother, adoptive family, and the child.

Types of Adoption Plans in Florida

You are in control of the adoption plan. In Florida, birth mothers can choose the type of adoption that feels right:

Differences Between Closed, Semi-Open, and Open Adoption

Each type of adoption plan has its own good and bad. Some adoption plans allow birth mothers to stay in touch with adoptive parents even after the adoption process is over. Whereas some adoption plans don’t even allow birth mothers to know about how their child is doing, post-adoption.

Open Adoption

Stay in contact with the adoptive family and your child through letters, calls, or visits.

Semi-Open Adoption

Receive updates through Adoption by Shepherd Care without direct contact.

Closed Adoption

No future contact is required—complete privacy is maintained

What to Think About When Choosing an Adoption Type

The right adoption choice is different for every birth mother. Think about what matters most to you.

  • How do you feel about staying in touch? Some birth mothers want to keep in contact with their child as they grow up. Others need privacy and a clear ending to move forward. Both feelings are valid. What feels right for you?
  • Your connection with the adoptive family. Do you feel comfortable with the adoptive parents? Can you see yourself talking with them over the years? If so, open or semi-open adoption might be a good option. If you’d rather keep your distance, closed adoption could be better.
  • What’s best for your child? Many birth mothers choose open adoption so their child can know their birth story. They want their child to understand where they came from and why adoption was chosen. Other birth mothers believe privacy is what’s best. Think about what you want your child to know someday.

Choose Your Plan Wisely

Take your time with this decision. There’s no wrong answer—only what’s right for you and your situation. Contact us for more information.

Call/ Text: 954-981-2060 and 407-265-9599

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Official Statement from
Adoption by Shepherd Care

It has come to our attention that the Hulu series Good American Family contains inaccurate information regarding Adoption by Shepherd Care (ASC) and the adoption of Natalia. We would like to take this opportunity to clarify the facts.

Contrary to what is presented in the documentary, ASC did not initiate any communication or have any involvement with Mr. or Mrs. Barnett in connection to Natalia’s adoption. The legal adoption process for Natalia was completed in the state of New Hampshire, where the original adoptive family resided, and was facilitated through a New Hampshire-based agency—not Adoption by Shepherd Care.

For those seeking further clarification, we encourage you to watch The Curious Case of Natalia Grace, Season 2, Episode 1, which clearly states that Adoption by Shepherd Care was not the agency responsible for facilitating this adoption.

We want to express our respect for all agencies and professionals engaged in this vital work. However, it is essential that accurate information is shared with the public and that the correct entities are acknowledged for their role in any adoption process.

At Adoption by Shepherd Care, we remain steadfast in our mission to place children in safe, loving, and permanent homes. We uphold the highest standards of professionalism, ethical practice, and compassion for the children and families we serve.

We respectfully request that the media and members of the public refrain from further spreading misinformation related to this matter. While we understand the interest in this case, we also urge respect for the privacy and dignity of all individuals involved. Adoption is a deeply personal and emotional journey that must be approached with sensitivity and integrity.

Adoption by Shepherd Care will continue its unwavering commitment to finding loving and permanent placements for children, guided by the principles of honesty, compassion, and respect.

For further information or media inquiries, please contact:

Joseph Sica – jo*@*******sc.org
Michael Cardenas – mi*****@*******sc.org

🌸 Spring Promotion: Begin Your Adoption Journey with Reduced Upfront Costs! 🌸

Spring is a time for new beginnings, and we’re making it easier than ever to take the first step in your adoption journey! From now through March 31st, we’re offering a special limited-time promotion to help families get started with reduced upfront costs.

Here’s how it works:

  • Consultation Fee: Pay only a partial portion of the $400 consult fee upfront. $250 Due at Submission Of Preliminary Application.
  • Inclusion Fee: Pay only a partial portion of the $1250 inclusion fee upfront. $850 Due after Consultation.
  • Deferred Payment: The remaining balance of these fees will only be due once you are matched to a case.

This is the perfect opportunity for families considering adoption to move forward with confidence and financial flexibility.

Don’t miss out this offer is only available through March 31st! Contact us today to schedule your consultation and take advantage of this exclusive spring savings.

Let’s make this spring the season of new beginnings for your family! 💕

Upcoming Adjustment To Our Domestic Fee Structure

We are writing to inform you of an upcoming adjustment to our Domestic fee structure, effective January 1, 2025. This change will apply to all active and waitlisted families as of the effective date.

We understand the potential impact of financial adjustments and are committed to providing transparency regarding these changes. This decision was made to ensure that we can continue providing the highest standard of services and support to the families we serve. If you have any questions or concerns about this adjustment, please do not hesitate to reach out.

Thank you for your understanding and continued trust in our organization.