Support for Individuals & Families with Information & Referral Services

Individual & Family Support

The ACO provides information, support, and referral services for all members of the adoption and permanency constellation (i.e., first family members, kinship families, permanency and adoptive family members, children who joined family by adoption/permanency planning, adult adopted individuals), across the lifespan, pre and post-placement.

These services include information about the various areas of adoption and permanency and navigation of the adoption system in Ontario. Support includes short term counselling and referral to adoption and permanency trained professionals.

Short term counselling is available but not limited to the following areas:

• Pre Placement Support
• Parenting Support and specific issues with respect to Parenting during Covid-19
• Therapeutic Parenting Approaches for Children, Youth, Teens, Young Adults
• Openness in Adoption Council of Ontario
• Search and Reunion
• The 7 Core Issues of Adoption/Permanency

The ACO has a roster of adoption competent therapists who are available to provide short term support. Individuals and families will be matched with a therapist according to their needs. If longer support or counselling is required, we will assist you in finding a referral. Support is available via phone or zoom during the COVID-19 pandemic and is being funded by the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services.

Contact Judy Archer at info@adoptontario.ca or call toll-free 1-877-ADOPT20 ext. 2994.

Professional Consultation

Professional, adoption competent consultations are available to social workers, adoption workers, mental health therapists and any community partners serving constellation members by telephone and email. Contact pass@adoptontario.ca or call toll-free 1-877-ADOPT20 ext.

Peer to Peer Support

When appropriate, the ACO will connect adoptive and permanency planning caregivers who are interested in attending or providing a parent-led support to the ACO Parent Liaison for information and referral. Consultation is also available to community partners, including mental health practitioners, adoption workers, and social workers.