TL;DR: Your first day at rehab covers check-in, a private intake assessment, medical evaluation, and orientation. We protect your privacy, set safety guidelines, and personalize your plan so you know exactly what comes next.
Important note: Casa Leona provides inpatient treatment and addresses mental health only in conjunction with substance use. Your first day is designed to help you settle in, understand the plan, and feel safe.
Knowing what happens on your first day at rehab reduces anxiety and helps you focus on healing. While details vary, most clients will experience a calm check-in, a private intake conversation, a medical evaluation, and a practical orientation to daily life in our program.
Arrival & Check-In
When you arrive, our team welcomes you and confirms basic information. We answer immediate questions, provide a quick overview of your schedule, and make sure essentials (medications, contacts) are documented. If you haven’t completed it yet, you can begin Verify Insurance during this step or coordinate it through Admissions.
Private Intake Assessment
Next is a one-on-one conversation with a clinician about substance use history, mental health, medications, goals, and supports. This helps us personalize care from day one and align with your safety needs and values. Treatment is most effective when plans fit your real life—work, family, and stressors. Our Services page outlines the evidence-based therapies we draw from.
Medical Evaluation & Safety
You’ll meet with medical staff for vitals, a brief physical review, and any lab work your provider orders. If withdrawal support or other medical monitoring is indicated, we set that up early. If you’re in emotional distress, know that help is immediate and confidential. Federal law (42 CFR Part 2) protects the privacy of your substance use treatment records; we only share what you authorize and when you authorize it.
Orientation & Your First 24 Hours
We’ll show you your room and common areas, review daily schedules, and explain simple guidelines that keep everyone safe and focused. You’ll see where groups meet, how meals work, and when to expect your first therapy sessions. If you’re worried about loved ones, we’ll explain how communication works and what family involvement can look like during residential care.
Setting Expectations Lowers Stress
It’s normal to feel a mix of relief, fear, and uncertainty on your first day at rehab. Our job is to help you feel oriented and supported within hours—not days. You’ll leave day one with a clear schedule, an early set of goals, and a plan for your first week. If you need additional clarity, our FAQs can help.
How Casa Leona Supports You After Day One
We continue matching your care to your needs. As you settle in, your clinician will adjust your plan as needed and coordinate next steps. Learn more about our Residential Program or contact Admissions to talk through what to pack, arrival timing, and insurance questions.
Bottom Line
Your first day at rehab is structured, private, and focused on safety and clarity. You’ll know who your team is, what your days look like, and how we’ll measure progress—so you can focus on healing.
Start Your First Day—With Support
We’ll guide you from the first call through arrival. Begin with Admissions, confirm coverage via Verify Insurance, or contact us now to plan your arrival.