[tobeafamily]

Independent - generally more cost effective - fewer dollars going out in professional fees. You do all your networking, searching, screening yourselves. I recommend independent adoption for people who've adopted before and 'know what it's like' or people who feel confident enough to screen situations, network, search, and coordinate services themselves/don't feel like they need outside support.

Agency - can be more expensive - can provide you with full services, including homestudy and postplacement supervision. Good for 'first time' or 'unsure' adopters. They will search for you though I recommend you network & search on your own as well. Most offer pre-adoption counseling and support for both adoptive and birth families, screening of potential situations (yours and theirs), post-placement supervision and support. Some are very restrictive regarding whom they'll work with - religion, age, income, sexual preference, etc. Others are more open. Avoid anyone who 'guarantees' you a baby in x period of time or for y dollars.

Just a few thoughts.

Regina