Initial Clinical Evaluation
Your recovery begins with a thorough assessment designed to understand your unique needs and build a personalized treatment plan.
What Happens When You Arrive at RECO Island
The initial clinical evaluation is the first and arguably most important step in your treatment at RECO Island. Within the first 24 hours of your arrival, our multidisciplinary clinical team conducts a comprehensive assessment that examines your physical health, mental health, substance use history, and psychosocial circumstances. This evaluation provides the foundation for every clinical decision that follows, ensuring that your treatment plan is built on a thorough understanding of who you are and what you need rather than assumptions or generalizations.
We understand that arriving at a treatment facility can feel overwhelming. Our staff is trained to make the intake process as welcoming and comfortable as possible. Every member of our team approaches you with empathy, respect, and professionalism. The evaluation is not an interrogation. It is a collaborative conversation designed to help us understand your experience so that we can provide the best possible care from day one.
Physical Examination
Your evaluation begins with a complete physical examination conducted by a physician or advanced practice nurse. This exam assesses your vital signs, overall physical condition, and any acute medical needs that require immediate attention. We evaluate for signs of withdrawal, dehydration, malnutrition, infection, chronic pain, and other physical health concerns that are common among individuals entering treatment for substance use disorders.
Comprehensive blood work is ordered during this initial assessment, including a complete blood count, metabolic panel, liver and kidney function tests, thyroid panel, hormonal levels, inflammatory markers, and nutritional biomarkers. Urine drug screening is performed to verify the substances in your system and guide safe medical management during the early days of your stay. If you have existing medical conditions or are taking prescription medications, our medical team reviews these and makes any necessary adjustments to ensure continuity of care.
Psychiatric Evaluation
A psychiatrist or psychiatric nurse practitioner conducts a thorough psychiatric evaluation, which includes a mental status examination, review of psychiatric history, assessment of current symptoms, and diagnostic evaluation. We screen for co-occurring mental health conditions including depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, PTSD, ADHD, personality disorders, and psychotic spectrum disorders. Many individuals entering treatment have undiagnosed or undertreated mental health conditions that have been masked by or intertwined with their substance use.
The psychiatric evaluation also includes a comprehensive medication review. If you are currently taking psychiatric medications, our team evaluates whether adjustments are needed based on your current clinical presentation and the substances you have been using. If you are not currently on medication but would benefit from pharmacological support, our psychiatrist discusses options with you and initiates treatment as appropriate. All medication decisions are made collaboratively, with your informed consent and understanding.
Psychosocial History
A licensed clinician conducts an in-depth psychosocial history that explores your personal narrative in the context of your addiction. This includes your childhood and family history, educational and employment background, relationship history, trauma exposure, legal involvement, housing and financial circumstances, spiritual and cultural background, and your personal recovery goals. This conversation forms the psychological and social dimensions of your biopsychosocial profile.
The psychosocial history is not a one-time event that is completed and filed away. The information gathered during this initial assessment informs every aspect of your treatment and is revisited and expanded upon as your therapeutic relationship deepens. Understanding your story, your strengths, your challenges, and your aspirations allows your clinical team to design a treatment experience that feels personal, relevant, and meaningful to you.
Treatment Planning
Within 48 to 72 hours of your arrival, your clinical team convenes to synthesize the findings from your physical examination, psychiatric evaluation, psychosocial history, and laboratory results into a comprehensive, individualized treatment plan. This plan outlines your clinical diagnoses, treatment goals, recommended therapeutic modalities, medical interventions, and preliminary discharge planning considerations. It serves as a roadmap for your recovery, but it is also a living document that is updated regularly as you progress through treatment.
You are an active participant in the treatment planning process. Your goals, preferences, and concerns are central to every decision. Our clinical team presents their recommendations, explains the rationale behind each component, and invites your input and feedback. Treatment works best when you feel ownership of the process, and our team is committed to building a plan that you believe in and are motivated to engage with fully.
Timeline and Expectations
First 2 Hours
Welcome, orientation, vital signs, initial medical screening, and comfort assessment.
First 24 Hours
Complete physical examination, blood work, psychiatric evaluation, and initial psychosocial assessment.
48-72 Hours
Lab results reviewed, treatment plan finalized, and initial therapeutic sessions begin.
First Week
Full treatment schedule established, all modalities active, and initial progress assessment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Bring your current medications in their original bottles, your insurance card, a valid photo ID, and any recent medical records you have access to. Our Admissions Checklist provides a complete list of items to bring. If you are missing any items, our team will assist you.
The various components of the initial evaluation are spread across your first 24 to 48 hours at RECO Island. Individual assessments typically last 30 to 90 minutes each. The process is paced to be thorough without being overwhelming, with breaks and rest periods built in, especially if you are experiencing withdrawal symptoms.
Your initial clinical evaluation itself is a therapeutic process, and supportive care begins immediately upon arrival. Formal therapy sessions, including group therapy and individual therapy, typically begin within the first 48 to 72 hours, once your medical stability is confirmed and your treatment plan is established.
Absolutely. All information shared during your evaluation is protected by HIPAA regulations and 42 CFR Part 2, which provides additional privacy protections specifically for substance use disorder treatment records. Your information will never be shared without your written consent. Learn more on our Confidentiality page.
With your consent, family members may provide additional history or context that supports the evaluation process. However, the clinical evaluation itself is conducted with you privately. Family involvement in treatment, including family therapy sessions, is discussed as part of the treatment planning process and can begin once you and your clinical team determine the timing is appropriate.
Your recovery starts with one call
Our admissions team is available 24/7 to guide you through the process.
