About

Single Mothers by Choice (SMC) was founded in 1981 by Jane Mattes, LCSW. Since then, over 30,000 thinkers, tryers, and mothers have enjoyed the benefits of membership.
Our members benefit from SMC peer support all over the US, and in Canada, Europe, and beyond, both through local chapters and/or through our active 24/7 online private Discussion Forum and Newsletters. We are delighted to share our experiences, wisdom, and resources about single motherhood by choice, including Forum topics like Thinking, Planning and Preparing to Become an SMC, Donor Insemination, Adoption, Parenting (from infants to kids in college, and beyond!). There are also Cohort threads for those trying to conceive in the same cycle, and for those with a due date in the same trimester.

Over the years, we have been the subject of many media articles as our society got to know and understand this new kind of family. You can read some of those articles here.

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Leadership

Jane Mattes, L.C.S.W., a single mother by choice and NYC psychotherapist, founded Single Mothers by Choice (SMC) in 1981 soon after having her son. She is now the leading expert on single motherhood by choice, as well as the author of the book, Single Mothers by Choice. She has overseen the growth of SMC from the original chapter in NYC to chapters throughout the US, and in Canada, Europe and beyond. Over 30,000 people have enjoyed the benefits of membership in SMC since its inception.

Over the 41 years of SMCs existence, Jane has met and consulted with countless “Thinkers” (those going through the various stages of becoming an SMC), “Try-ers” (those trying to adopt or conceive) and Mothers (those who are parenting as SMCs). In addition to consulting with Thinkers, Tryers, and Moms, and running groups about all aspects of SMC-hood, Jane also consults with other professionals who work with SMCs and their children, and is a spokesperson for SMC in the media.

Media Mentions

“To me, being an SMC means taking the courageous step to fulfill your dreams. The support, empowerment, and honest advice I received from other SMCs gave me the courage to take this step, and when I look into my baby's eyes, I know it's the best decision I've ever made.”

– Nikita Parsons