Birth Parent Support in NC

No. When you choose adoption through CHS, your child is not placed in foster care, and the Department of Social Services (DSS) is not involved. You are voluntarily making an adoption plan, and you have the right to be part of the process, including choosing the adoptive family, creating a hospital plan, and receiving support throughout. You are in control of the decision and process.

In NC, there are two types of adoption.

• An identified/open adoption is when the birth parent directly chooses and connects with the adoptive parents. This includes a one-time exchange of identifying information.
• A non-identified/closed adoption is when the birth parent and adoptive family have no contact after the placement, and no identifying information is shared. Birth parents can still choose the family and will receive regular pictures and letter updates through a non-identified adoption if they would like.

Yes. You may work with CHS to find a family that aligns with your values and hopes for your child. Adoptions can be identified or closed depending on the birth parents’ and adoptive family’s preferences. In closed adoptions, birth parents have the option to select the adoptive family or to have the agency select the adoptive family, but no identifying information will be shared with either option. In identified adoptions, you can be directly involved in selecting the adoptive family for your child.

Yes. In North Carolina, the birth father has legal rights. If he is known, he must be notified and given an opportunity to consent or not consent to the adoption. If he is unknown or cannot be located, the court may take additional legal steps. Both birth parents’ rights must be legally terminated for the adoption to proceed.

North Carolina law allows adopted individuals to request certain information once they reach age 18. This may include non-identifying information or, in some cases, CHS may act as a liaison or “go between” through our Confidential Intermediary Program.

No. Making a plan of adoption does not cost the birth parent anything. It is free and confidential.

Yes. In North Carolina, when a birth parent signs a relinquishment, both the birth mother and birth father have 7 days to change their mind (known as the revocation period).

All CHS adoptive families with CHS must go through a thorough preplacement assessment process conducted by a qualified social worker. Only families who meet strict safety, stability and state requirements are approved to adopt. This screening process includes but is not limited to:

Background checks
Interviews
Home visits
Financial and medical evaluations
References
Adoption education and preparation

Short answer: Yes.

If you’re pregnant or parenting a newborn and considering adoption, chances are you are carrying a heavy mix of love, uncertainty, fear, and hope.

Many parents tell us the same thing:

“I feel guilty even thinking about adoption.”

The truth is that considering adoption does not define your worth as a parent or as a person. It means you are carefully thinking about your child’s future and exploring all available options.

At CHS, we believe every parent deserves support, information, and compassion while making these decisions. Our role is not to pressure you toward adoption. Our role is to help you fully understand your options and make the decision that feels right for you and your child. CHS provides free, confidential, judgment-free consultations for expectant and birth parents.

One of the biggest misconceptions about adoption is that parents choose adoption because they don’t love their child.

In reality, many parents consider adoption because they love their child deeply and are trying to make the best decision they can under difficult circumstances.

You may be facing challenges related to:

• Housing
• Finances
• Health
• Relationships
• Education
• Emotional support

These realities do not diminish your love for your child.

Whether you ultimately choose to parent or create an adoption plan, CHS can help you explore resources and options that support your family’s future.

If you are considering adoption, understanding your rights is an important first step.

CHS provides education about birth parent rights throughout the adoption process. Birth parents have the opportunity to learn about their options, participate in planning, and receive support while making informed decisions.

Depending on your circumstances, you may have the opportunity to:

• Choose an adoptive family
• Create a hospital plan
• Determine the level of contact you’d like with the adoptive family
• Receive ongoing support

Understanding your rights can help you feel more confident as you navigate the process.

Many expectant fathers have questions about a father’s role in adoption planning.

If the birth father is known, North Carolina law generally requires that he be notified and given an opportunity to consent or not consent to the adoption. Additional legal steps may be required if a father is unknown or cannot be located. Both parents’ rights must be legally addressed before an adoption can be completed.

Because every situation is unique, it’s important to discuss your circumstances with an experienced adoption professional.

One of the biggest concerns birth parents have is:

“How do I know my child will be safe?”

All CHS adoptive families complete extensive screening and assessment processes before becoming approved for adoption. The agency’s adoption process evaluates a family’s ability to provide a safe, stable, nurturing environment for a child.

Families also complete state-required processes and receive professional assessment from qualified social workers.

The answer depends on the type of adoption plan you choose.

Some birth parents choose an identified adoption, allowing them to communicate directly with prospective adoptive parents before placement.

Others prefer a more private, non-identified adoption.

CHS works with birth parents to determine what level of communication feels comfortable and appropriate. Identified adoptions may include direct interaction and shared identifying information when all parties agree.

Yes.

Many people assume adoption decisions must be made during pregnancy.

In reality, some parents begin considering adoption after delivery.

Whether your child is a newborn or you have recently given birth, CHS can help you understand your options and provide confidential support while you consider next steps. CHS supports both pregnant individuals and parents whose baby has recently been born.

This is one of the most common long-term questions birth parents ask.

North Carolina law allows adopted individuals to request certain information once they become adults. In some situations, CHS may serve as a liaison through its Confidential Intermediary Program to assist adoptees and birth parents who are interested in reconnecting through mutual consent.

The important thing to remember is that support and resources remain available long after finalization.

Adoption can bring peace, hope, and confidence.

It can also bring grief.

These realities are not mutually exclusive.

Many birth parents experience complex emotions after placement, including sadness, relief, loss, pride, uncertainty, and love.

CHS recognizes adoption as a lifelong experience and offers ongoing support services for birth parents, adoptees, and adoptive families.

Healing does not require facing those emotions alone.

Every birth parent has different hopes for their child.

Some may prioritize:

• Education
• Faith
• Extended family relationships
• Lifestyle
• Cultural background
• Location
• Communication preferences

There is no universal checklist.

Instead, the process often begins with identifying what matters most to you and your vision for your child’s future.

CHS works with birth parents to review family profiles and identify families that align with their preferences and goals. Birth parents may choose the adoptive family themselves or request assistance from the agency.