As the first accredited Lutheran adoption agency in the Greater Washington, D.C. area, Lutheran Social Services of the National Capital Area (LSSNCA) has supported growing families for decades. As a Licensed Child Placing Agency (LCPA) in the District of Columbia and Maryland, we currently provide pre-adoptive training, home study, and Post-Placement Visit (PPV) services to support domestic and international adoptions. Our agency also provides Break the Seal services for birth parents or adoptees who petition the District of Columbia court to Break the Seal of Adoption.
If you're interested in LSSNCA conducting your home study or Post Placement Visit (PPV) or would like more information on Break the Seal services, please fill out our Adoption Services Inquiry form. For your convenience, our fee schedule with our scope of services and related pricing is also provided.
PRE-ADOPTIVE TRAINING
Different types of adoptions require different types and amounts of pre-adoption training facilitated by an LCPA. If you're adopting a child through intercountry adoption from a country that is a party to the Hague Convention on Intercountry Adoption, 10 hours of preservice training is mandated.
HOME STUDIES
The home study is required for both domestic and international adoptions and serves as an assessment of the pre-adoptive home and family to better evaluate the placement for suitability, and to ensure that good matches are made between children and families. In addition, the home study process helps ensure that parents and families are educated about the adoption process and have the information required to make the best decision(s) for their families.
POST PLACEMENT VISIT (PPV) REPORTING
Following the placement of child/ren, an adoptive family undergoes a mandated supervisory period that includes interviews and home visits that are conducted by a licensed independent clinical social worker (LICSW), as both domestic and international agencies require assurance regarding the welfare of the child/ren. Agency supervision may also take place after the adoption is finalized.
BREAK THE SEAL
LSSNCA provides comprehensive post-adoption search services for individuals who were adopted through LSSNCA or made their adoption plan with our agency. Overall, LSSNCA serves as an intermediary for birth parents or adoptees seeking to connect. All services are confidential.
