Inside the Admissions Process at New Focus & LiFT with Janelle Ayala

Considering residential treatment can feel overwhelming, emotional, and deeply personal. Alta sits down with New Focus Academy and Life Focused Transitions Admissions Director, Janelle Ayala, to walk parents through what the admissions process actually looks like — from that first phone call to enrollment day.They discuss who New Focus and LiFT serve, how individualized care is determined, what documentation is helpful, and how families are supported every step of the way. Janelle also shares what questions parents should be asking programs, including topics that often go unspoken.Most importantly, this conversation offers reassurance: seeking support is not failure — it’s an act of love. If you’re navigating this decision, this episode brings clarity, transparency, and hope.