Please note: This group is open to all members of the adoption constellation as we explore a special topic this month. Join us for a discussion that dispels common misconceptions and stereotypes about birth mothers, explores the unique postpartum and mental health challenges they face, and addresses the misunderstandings and insensitivity that often surround their experiences. Learn how deeply adoption impacts their lives beyond the act of relinquishment, the critical need for mental health support, and the importance of recognizing and validating their ongoing grief and strength. This meeting aims to foster empathy, understanding, and better support for birth mothers within and beyond our community.

Our Birth Mother Support Group provides a safe and supportive environment to help with the complexities that are often part of the adoption experience. The meetings are open to birth mothers connected by the lifelong journey of adoption and are an opportunity for birth mothers to encourage one another in their healing process through discussion and interaction. Birth mothers who have experienced closed adoptions or adoptions with varying degrees of openness attend this meeting. We invite you to join this group of women, who are at different places on the same journey, to give and receive understanding and support.

What is the scope of this group?

This peer discussion and support group is not meant to replace conventional therapy, but rather serve as additional support on your personal journey to integrate your experience. The focus of this group is the emotional aspects of our journeys. For those involved in the process of search, one on one guidance and support as well as technical expertise and assistance, are available through Our Search & DNA Assistance Program at https://www.adoptionnetwork.org/service-areas/adult-adoptee-birthparents/search-and-reunion.html.

Meeting Information

This meeting is a virtual meeting led by trained, volunteer facilitators Lindsey and Nikki, held the first Wednesday of every month from 7-9 pm ET. The meeting is held via the Zoom platform (which can be accessed through a home computer/laptop, tablet, or mobile phone) and will require an internet connection or phone data connection. Registration is required and can be completed by clicking on the registration button in the right-hand corner and following the prompts.

The meetings are free and open to birth mothers. Membership in Adoption Network Cleveland helps provide the support that makes Birth Mother Support Meetings possible, and we ask all who attend to consider joining as a member at https://www.adoptionnetwork.org/get-involved/become-a-member.html.