Admissions Process

Starting Treatment at Centered Recovery Programs

Taking the first step toward treatment can feel overwhelming, but our goal is to make the admissions process as simple, supportive, and stress-free as possible.

Whether you are seeking treatment for substance use, mental health concerns, or co-occurring disorders, our team will guide you through every step of the process with compassion, transparency, and individualized care.

Many clients tell us that they were nervous before reaching out. By the end of the admissions process, they often describe feeling relieved, informed, and hopeful about the next chapter of their recovery journey.

Step 1: Contact Our Team

Your journey begins with a simple phone call.

When you contact Centered Recovery Programs, you will speak directly with a member of our admissions team, typically Reed Smith, Director of Client Services, or Renee McMahon, Business Development Specialist.

During this initial conversation, we will gather basic demographic information, discuss your current concerns, complete a brief clinical screening, and determine whether our programs may be an appropriate fit for your needs.

There is no pressure and no commitment required. This conversation is simply an opportunity for us to learn more about your situation and help guide you toward the appropriate next steps.

Most initial calls take approximately 10–15 minutes, though we will take as much time as needed to ensure your questions are answered.

Step 2: Insurance Verification & Financial Review

Following your initial call, our team will verify your insurance benefits as quickly as possible.

Once verification is complete, we will review your individual coverage with you, including:

• Covered services
• Deductibles
• Copays
• Coinsurance
• Out-of-pocket responsibilities
• Any financial obligations associated with treatment

We believe financial transparency is essential. Before admission, every client receives a clear understanding of their insurance benefits and any potential costs associated with treatment.

We are currently in network with most BCBS plans, UHC/Optum, and Cigna. Also, we are a preferred provider for Aetna and other insurance providers. We can accept most major insurance policies except Medicare/Medicaid, but we can easily connect you to trusted sources who do accept these policies if you need. 

Step 3: Schedule Your Clinical Assessment

All admissions are scheduled in advance and can be completed either virtually or in person.Your assessment will be conducted by an admissions counselor or master’s-level clinician and typically takes approximately 90–120 minutes to complete.

We understand that every client arrives from a different situation. Some individuals complete their assessment prior to beginning treatment, while others may complete portions of the assessment closer to their admission date due to scheduling needs or transitions from residential or inpatient programs.

Our team works to accommodate each client’s circumstances whenever possible.

During the assessment, we may complete:

• Comprehensive Biopsychosocial Assessment
• ASAM Evaluation
• PHQ-9 Depression Screening
• GAD-7 Anxiety Screening
• DASS-21 Assessment
• BAM-R Assessment
• Langer Mindfulness/Mindlessness Scale
• Medical and treatment history review

The purpose of this assessment is not simply to assign a diagnosis, but to gain a comprehensive understanding of your strengths, challenges, goals, and support needs.

Step 4: Medical Screening & Clinical Review

Prior to admission, all clients complete:

• Urine Drug Screen (UDS)
• Breathalyzer Screening
• Comprehensive Medical History Review

Our Medical Director reviews each admission to ensure that outpatient treatment is clinically appropriate and that clients can safely participate in services. Treatment recommendations are developed collaboratively between the client and our clinical team and are reviewed by both our Clinical Director and Medical Director.

While ASAM Criteria are utilized as part of the decision-making process, we recognize that every individual is unique. Clinical recommendations are based on the complete picture of each person’s needs, circumstances, and recovery goals.

Step 5: Complete Admission Paperwork

To make the process as convenient as possible, all clients receive access to a secure client portal. Through the portal, clients can complete admission documents electronically before their scheduled admission appointment.

Documentation may include:

• HIPAA forms
• Treatment consents
• Financial agreements
• Releases of information
• Program expectations
• Additional clinical documentation

Virtual clients must complete required paperwork prior to admission. In-person clients may receive assistance from admissions staff if needed.

Step 6: Orientation & Program Preparation

Once admitted, our team will prepare you for your first day of treatment.

Virtual clients receive:

• HIPAA-compliant meeting links
• Program schedules
• Technology guidance
• Orientation information

In-person clients are welcomed into our facility and may receive a tour of the office, allowing them to become familiar with the environment and members of the treatment team before beginning services.

Our goal is to ensure that every client feels comfortable, informed, and supported before treatment begins.

Step 7: Begin Treatment

After completing the admissions process, clients can often begin treatment as soon as the next business day. Whether participating in Partial Hospitalization (PHP), Intensive Outpatient Programming (IOP), or Outpatient Services (OP), your treatment plan will be individualized to your specific needs and goals.

At Centered Recovery Programs, we believe healing happens through connection, self-awareness, mindfulness, and compassionate support. From your very first phone call, our team is committed to helping you feel seen, respected, and empowered throughout your recovery journey.

Why Clients Choose Centered

Clients frequently tell us they appreciate:

• A friendly and welcoming admissions experience
• Clear communication throughout the process
• Supportive staff who ease anxiety about treatment
• A non-judgmental atmosphere
• Flexible virtual and in-person options
• A mindfulness-based approach to recovery
• Individualized recommendations based on clinical need

Our admissions process is designed to remove barriers, answer questions, and help you feel confident in taking the next step toward recovery.

What to Expect on Your First Day: Welcome to Centered Recovery Programs

Starting treatment can bring up a mix of emotions. Many clients arrive feeling nervous, uncertain, or unsure of what to expect. That’s completely normal.

At Centered Recovery Programs, our goal is to make your first day as comfortable and welcoming as possible. From the moment you arrive or log in, our team is here to guide you through the process and help you feel supported every step of the way.

Before Your First Day

Prior to beginning treatment, our admissions team will work with you to complete all necessary steps, including:

• Insurance verification
• Clinical assessment
• Admission paperwork
• Medical screening and clearance
• Program placement recommendations

You will receive information regarding your schedule, program expectations, and any additional instructions specific to your level of care.

If You Are Attending In-Person

When you arrive at Centered Recovery Programs, you will be greeted by our friendly staff and welcomed into our facility.

Depending on your admission timeline, your first day may include:

• A tour of the facility
• Introduction to staff members
• Review of program expectations
• Orientation to daily schedules and group structure
• Review of treatment goals and recommendations

Our team understands that entering treatment can feel intimidating. We strive to create a warm, non-judgmental environment where you can begin building trust and connection from day one.

If You Are Attending Virtually

Virtual treatment offers the same level of clinical care while allowing you to participate from the comfort of your own environment.

Before your first session, our team will provide:

• Secure HIPAA-compliant meeting links
• Program schedule
• Orientation materials
• Instructions for accessing virtual services

Our staff will ensure you feel comfortable navigating the technology and answer any questions before treatment begins.

Your First Group Experience

Many clients worry about attending their first group session. It is one of the most common concerns we hear during admissions. The good news is that there is no expectation for you to share more than you are comfortable sharing.

During your first group, you may:

• Introduce yourself if you feel comfortable
• Meet peers who are on similar recovery journeys
• Learn about group guidelines and expectations
• Participate in discussions, mindfulness exercises, and psychoeducational activities
• Begin developing connections and support within the treatment community

Many clients report feeling relieved after their first group experience and realize they are not alone in what they are facing.

A Mindfulness-Based Approach

Centered Recovery takes a unique approach to treatment that integrates mindfulness, emotional wellness, self-awareness, and practical recovery skills. Rather than focusing solely on symptoms or behaviors, we help clients develop a deeper understanding of themselves and build tools for lasting change.

Throughout treatment, you can expect opportunities to learn skills related to:

• Mindfulness and present-moment awareness
• Emotional regulation
• Stress management
• Relapse prevention
• Healthy coping strategies
• Self-compassion and personal growth

What Should I Bring?

In-Person Clients

We recommend bringing:

• A valid photo ID
• Insurance card (if applicable)
• Water bottle
• Notebook or journal
• A list of any medications you are currently taking
• Any requested documentation

Virtual Clients

We recommend having:

• A private and confidential space
• Reliable internet connection
• Device with camera and audio capabilities
• Notebook or journal for personal reflection

What Happens After My First Day?

Treatment is individualized based on your needs and recommended level of care.

As you continue in the program, you will work closely with our clinical team to:

• Develop treatment goals
• Build healthy coping skills
• Strengthen support systems
• Address mental health and substance use concerns
• Create a sustainable plan for long-term recovery

Your treatment team will regularly review your progress and adjust recommendations as needed to support your ongoing growth and success.

You Don’t Have to Have It All Figured Out

Many people begin treatment feeling uncertain about what comes next. You do not need to have all the answers before starting.

Your first day is simply the beginning.

Our team is here to help you take the next step, answer your questions, and provide support as you begin your recovery journey.