- The admissions process typically takes 2-4 hours and includes intake paperwork, medical evaluation, and orientation
- Insurance verification is usually completed before arrival during a pre-admission phone call
- You will undergo a comprehensive medical and psychological assessment upon arrival
- Personal belongings are screened for safety — some items may be restricted
- The first 24-48 hours focus on medical stabilization and orientation to the program
- Feeling nervous is completely normal — treatment staff are trained to make the process comfortable
- Having a packing list prepared before arrival helps reduce day-one stress
Published: February 2026 | Last Updated: February 2026 | Reading Time: 8 min
Before You Arrive
Pre-Admission Steps
Most treatment facilities handle significant preparation before your arrival day. The pre-admission process typically includes an initial phone consultation to discuss your situation and needs, insurance verification and benefits explanation, determination of the appropriate level of care, scheduling your admission date, and receiving a packing list and arrival instructions.
What to Bring
- Government-issued photo ID and insurance cards
- Comfortable clothing — casual, modest clothing for 7-14 days (plan for laundry access)
- Medications — all current prescriptions in original bottles
- Personal hygiene items — basic toiletries (check facility restrictions on items with alcohol content)
- Journal and pen — many facilities encourage journaling
- Phone numbers — written list of important contacts (your phone may be restricted)
- Comfort items — photos, a favorite book, a meaningful personal item
What NOT to Bring
- Drugs, alcohol, or drug paraphernalia
- Weapons of any kind
- Valuables (expensive jewelry, large amounts of cash)
- Open food or beverages
- Items with alcohol content (certain mouthwashes, hand sanitizers — check specific facility rules)
The Admission Process
Step 1: Welcome and Paperwork
Upon arrival, you will be greeted by admissions staff who will guide you through intake paperwork. This includes consent forms for treatment, HIPAA privacy authorization, emergency contact information, financial agreements, and program rules acknowledgment. The paperwork process typically takes 30-60 minutes.
Step 2: Belongings Search
For the safety of all clients and staff, your belongings will be searched. Restricted items will be securely stored and returned upon discharge. This process is routine and conducted respectfully.
Step 3: Medical Evaluation
A medical professional will conduct a comprehensive health assessment including vital signs measurement, medical history review, current medications assessment, substance use history, withdrawal risk evaluation, and laboratory tests (blood work, drug screening).
Step 4: Psychological Assessment
A clinical team member will conduct a psychological intake covering mental health history, co-occurring disorders screening, trauma history, suicidal ideation assessment, treatment goals and motivation, and family and social support evaluation.
Step 5: Treatment Plan Development
Based on your medical and psychological assessments, your treatment team will develop an individualized treatment plan outlining therapeutic approaches, groups and activities, medication needs, and recovery goals.
Step 6: Orientation and Tour
You will receive a tour of the facility and orientation to the daily schedule, meal times, visiting policies, phone access rules, and emergency procedures.
Your First 24-48 Hours
What to Expect Emotionally
Feeling anxious, scared, overwhelmed, relieved, or a combination of all of these is completely normal. The first day or two can be emotionally intense as you adjust to a new environment, begin medical stabilization, and start the process of recovery.
Medical Stabilization
If you require detoxification, the first few days will focus on managing withdrawal symptoms safely. Medical staff will monitor your condition closely, administer medications as needed, and ensure your physical comfort and safety.
Settling In
You will be shown to your room, meet your roommate (if applicable), learn the daily schedule, attend your first meals, and begin connecting with peers and staff.
FAQ
Can I bring my phone to rehab? Phone policies vary by facility. Many residential programs restrict phone use to specific times or the first few days to help you focus on treatment. Outpatient programs (IOP/PHP) typically do not restrict phone use. Check with the specific facility.
Will I have to share a room? Most residential facilities offer shared rooms, though some provide private rooms at additional cost. Sharing a room is part of the community experience and can be a source of mutual support.
How long does the admission process take? The full admission process — from arrival through medical evaluation and orientation — typically takes 2-4 hours. Plan for your arrival day to be focused on this process.
Can a family member stay with me during admission? Some facilities allow a family member to be present during the initial paperwork phase. After the intake process, visiting policies will apply. Check with the facility for their specific policy.
References
- SAMHSA. (2023). Finding Quality Treatment.
- NIDA. (2018). Principles of Drug Addiction Treatment.
- Joint Commission. (2023). Behavioral Health Care Accreditation Standards.
Written by the Valley Spring Recovery Center Editorial Team
Ready to take the first step toward recovery? Contact Valley Spring Recovery Center today at (201) 781-8812 or reach out to our admissions team for a confidential consultation.