Family Life Pathways™
Adoption Journey
Adoption is a beautiful, complex journey. Whether you're just beginning to explore or already deep in the process, NWA has local agencies, attorneys, and a community of adoptive families ready to walk alongside you.
Stage 1 of 5
Considering Adoption
You're beginning to explore adoption. Start with education, prayer, and honest family conversations. There is no rush.
Bethany Christian Services NWA
Licensed AgencyLicensed adoption agency in Rogers offering information sessions, home studies, and adoption support services.
📍 Rogers, AR
Show Hope
National ResourceChristian adoption advocacy and grants organization. Excellent educational resources for families beginning to explore adoption.
Arkansas DHS — Adoption & Foster Care
State AgencyState agency overseeing foster care and adoption in Arkansas. Information about the foster-to-adopt process.
Adoptive Families Magazine
Magazine/ResourceTrusted national resource for adoptive families — articles, community, and guidance through every stage.
💡 Helpful Tips
- •Attend an adoption information meeting with a local agency before making any decisions.
- •Talk openly with your spouse and any existing children about adoption from the beginning.
- •Consider all types of adoption — domestic infant, foster-to-adopt, and international each have different timelines and costs.
➡️ Next Steps
Contact Bethany Christian Services NWA for a free information session. No commitment required.
Stage 2 of 5
Domestic Adoption
Domestic infant adoption connects birth mothers with adoptive families in the United States. It requires a licensed agency and home study.
Bethany Christian Services NWA
Licensed AgencyFull-service domestic adoption agency with Arkansas licensing. Provides home studies, matching, and post-placement support.
📍 Rogers, AR
Arkansas DHS Adoption Services
State AgencyState-approved adoption process and home study requirements for Arkansas families.
Local Adoption Attorneys — NWA
LegalConsult with an NWA family attorney experienced in adoption. The NWA Bar Association can provide referrals.
National Council for Adoption
National ResourceEthical adoption advocacy and resources for domestic adoption.
💡 Helpful Tips
- •Budget $25,000-$45,000 for domestic infant adoption, including agency fees and legal costs.
- •Look into adoption grants through Show Hope, Gift of Adoption, and Help Us Adopt.
- •Home studies take 3-6 months — start early and be thorough.
➡️ Next Steps
Schedule a home study with a licensed agency. This is required for all domestic adoptions and opens you to being matched.
Stage 3 of 5
Foster-to-Adopt
Fostering with the intent to adopt is one of the most impactful paths. Arkansas has hundreds of children waiting for permanent families.
Arkansas DHS — DCFS Foster & Adoption
State AgencyArkansas Division of Children & Family Services. Primary contact for foster care licensing and foster-to-adopt in Arkansas.
Foster Care NWA Support Group
Support GroupLocal NWA support group for foster and adoptive families. Monthly meetings, resources, and encouragement.
📍 NW Arkansas
Cross Church Foster & Adoption Ministry
Church MinistryActive faith-based foster care support community at Cross Church NWA.
📍 NW Arkansas
National Foster Parent Association
National ResourceNational advocacy and resources for foster and adoptive families.
💡 Helpful Tips
- •Foster-to-adopt requires commitment to the child's wellbeing even if reunification occurs — be emotionally prepared.
- •PRIDE training (required for AR foster care licensing) is thorough and genuinely helpful.
- •Connect with experienced foster families before beginning — their wisdom is invaluable.
➡️ Next Steps
Attend an AR DHS informational meeting about foster care licensing. It's free and has no commitment.
Stage 4 of 5
International Adoption
International adoption connects families with children in other countries. It requires more time, documentation, and cost — but opens doors to children who need families.
Bethany Christian Services — International
Licensed AgencyInternational adoption services through Bethany's network. Country availability changes — contact them for current programs.
US State Department — Adoption
Government ResourceOfficial US government guidance on international adoption requirements, country programs, and legal process.
Joint Council on International Children's Services
National ResourceAdvocacy and resources for ethical international adoption.
Adopt International — NWA Families
CommunityConnect with NWA families who have completed international adoptions for first-hand guidance.
💡 Helpful Tips
- •International adoption costs vary widely ($20,000-$50,000+) depending on country.
- •Research country programs carefully — requirements and availability change frequently.
- •Adoption grants are available through Show Hope, Gift of Adoption, and Lifesong for Orphans.
➡️ Next Steps
Contact an accredited international adoption agency to learn about current country programs and requirements.
Stage 5 of 5
Post-Adoption Support
Adoption doesn't end at placement — it's a lifelong journey. Post-adoption support is essential for the wellbeing of your child and your family.
Ozark Guidance — Adoption-Informed Therapy
TherapyTherapists experienced with adoptee attachment, trauma, and family adjustment.
📍 NW Arkansas
Center for Adoption Support and Education
National ResourceNational resource specializing in post-adoption mental health support and parent training.
Bethany Christian Services — Post-Adoption
Agency SupportPost-adoption counseling, support groups, and resources for Arkansas adoptive families.
The Connected Child
ResourceHighly recommended book by Dr. Karen Purvis on raising children from hard places. Essential reading for adoptive parents.
💡 Helpful Tips
- •Attachment challenges are common in adopted children — seek an adoption-informed therapist early.
- •Celebrate your child's birth culture and heritage from day one.
- •Connect with other adoptive families — they understand in a way others can't.
➡️ Next Steps
Join a local adoptive family support group and consider working with an adoption-informed therapist proactively.
Connect with Others on This Journey
NWA has a warm community of adoptive and foster families. Connect with families who have walked this journey and are ready to help you.