We often say that while a child is in dependency, the department is co-parenting with you to help ensure each child’s needs are met. As an Adoptive parent, you are now in the driver’s seat in making decisions for your child and family. Adoption Support is available in the background as you need us, to support you on that journey in a variety of ways.

You may have adopted six months ago, or you may have adopted 16 years ago! As an agency, we are continually learning more about the needs of adopted children and families, and our program and supports continue to grow to meet those needs. We want to make sure all families are informed and aware of the various benefits and supports we can provide, so you can access services at the right time. Our program and staff may be able to assist with the following:

• Assistance in accessing contracted In-Home Services
• Assistance in paying directly for outpatient mental health support for your child, family, or you, as the parent
• Renegotiating monthly maintenance payments, based on changes in your child’s needs or the circumstances of your family
• Opening or closing medical coverage when you move to a new state of residence
• One-time financial support if your family faces hardship due to an unforeseen family situation (up to $1500.00)
• Promoting & Supporting Permanency Committee funds
• Informal referrals to other services and supports outside our scope of work

Have questions about any of these resources? Feel free to reach out to us at any time via phone or email, and we can connect you with your assigned Adoption Support Consultant.

Did you know you can have access to certain In-Home and Evidence Based Practices as an adoptive family? These types of services are designed to strengthen and stabilize your family, and promote safety. These services may be delivered in your home, the community or an agency. Providers work alongside families to identify family strengths, offer support around family routines, and manage stressful situations.

Please contact our program directly to learn more!

We like to describe our amazing Adoption Support team as small, but mighty. We currently have 10 wonderful adoption support consultants, who serve the 17,000 children, youth & families, who receive Adoption Support benefits from Washington State.

The role of the consultant differs in many ways from the role of the caseworker prior to adoption finalization. The main role of the consultant is to manage the Adoption Support Agreement and benefits, which may include:

• Renegotiating monthly maintenance payments
• Assisting your family in accessing services as part of the adoption support agreement
• Updating your address
• Requesting medical in a new state of residence
• Providing information on available resources