Staff

Name: Mr. Jones, BBA

Title: Founder/  Instructor

Description

Mr. Jones is the founder of New Life Facility and a seasoned instructor, bringing over 10 years of expertise in addiction recovery, anger management, and crisis response. With a background in working closely with individuals on probation and parole, he has dedicated his career to helping clients navigate the challenges of personal growth, anger management, and recovery from substance use disorders. His role as an AOD Specialist on the San Bernardino Community Crisis Response Team underscores his commitment to offering crisis intervention and providing critical support to individuals in distress.

As a Certified Crisis Intervention Specialist Instructor (CCIS-III) with Growth Central Training, Mr. Jones is passionate about engaging students in the practical application of crisis response techniques, de-escalation strategies, and safety protocols. His experience includes managing recovery facilities and launching nonprofit organizations, where he served as Executive Director and developed robust, community-centered support systems. He is also well-versed in telehealth practices, advocating for equitable and ethical approaches to support vulnerable populations.

A recognized expert in his field, Mr. Jones has shared insights as a guest speaker at events such as the CCAPP Annual Convention and the ACA Professional Practice Summit, discussing the integration of artificial intelligence in telehealth. His credentials include CADCII, BIPF, CAMS-II, CDVS-I, CPTS-II, and CPI, demonstrating his broad expertise in areas critical to both individual and family support.

Students describe Mr. Jones’s instructional style as engaging and empathetic, with a focus on active listening and empowerment. Outside of his professional commitments, he enjoys spending time in Apple Valley, CA, where he is an active board member and community advocate, continuously inspired to support those on their journey to recovery and personal growth.

Certifications:

SAP (DOT Substance Abuse Professional), CADCII (Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor-II), BIPF (Batterer's Intervention Program Facilitator), CAMS-III (Certified Anger Management Specialist-III), CDVS-III (Certified Domestic Violence Specialist-III), CPTS-II (Certified Parent Training Specialist-II), CPI (Certified Parenting Instructor), CCIS-III (Certified Crisis Intervention Specialist-II), Certified Crisis Intervention Specialist Instructor (EDGE system), CSRF (Certified SMART Recovery Facilitator-Professional), CAMS Trained (Collaborative Assessment and Management of Suicidality), MATS (Medication-Assisted Treatment Specialist), DIP (Diversity and Inclusion Practitioner), GCEL1 (Google Certified Educator Level 1)

Board Member:

BOD Member for High Desert Child, Adolescent & Family Services Center, Inc. (2023-Present)

BOD Treasurer (2024) (Social Media Manager 2022-2023) Cal. Assoc. of Anger Management (2022-Present)

Professional Dev. Coordinator Int. Assoc. of Addictions and Offender Counselors (2024-Present)

Director, Codirector, and Treasurer for High Desert AA Hospitals and Institutions (2017-2021)

Director for California Association for Artificial Intelligence (2024-Present)

Professional Association Membership:

Member of NAMA (National Anger Management Association) (2021- Present)

Member of CCAPP (California Consortium of Addiction Programs and Professionals) (2021- Present)

Member of ACA (American Counseling Association) (2021-Present)

Member of NAADAC (National Association for Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Counselors) (2024-Present) 

Member of CALPCC (California Association for Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors) (2024-Present)

Guest Speaker: 

CCAPP 10th Annual Convention “From Marginalized to Mainstream” The role of telehealth in Providing Equitable Substance Abuse Support for Vulnerable Populations.

42nd Annual Research and Treatment Conference ATSA Student Blitz “Transparency in Treatment” A case study of the effects of transparency in the treatment of a high-risk client.

ACA 2024 Professional Practice Summit “Reaching Marginalized and Rural Populations Through Ethical Use of Artificial Intelligence in Telehealth”

CCAPP 11th Annual California Addiction Conference "The Ethical Use of Artificial Intelligence in Substance Abuse Recovery Treatment" Integrating Technology with Compassionate and Responsible Care 

Instructor:

Growth Central Training: Certified Crisis Intervention Specialist Instructor

email: jones@newlifefacility.com

Phone: 760-981-7449

Name: Laura Sharp

Title: Program Manager

Description:
Laura Sharp is the backbone of New Life Facility, ensuring its daily operations run smoothly and efficiently. With over a decade of experience in county medical offices as both a medical assistant and front office professional, she brings a wealth of administrative expertise, organizational precision, and a deep commitment to client service. Her ability to balance structure with compassion makes her an essential pillar of the facility, keeping everything on track while providing unwavering support to both staff and participants.

In her role as Program Manager, Laura oversees critical aspects of the facility’s operations, from managing client communications and coordinating schedules to handling payments and ensuring compliance with administrative protocols. She is the first point of contact for many, offering guidance, assistance, and a reassuring presence to those seeking support. Whether answering phones, resolving logistical challenges, or streamlining workflows, Laura’s attention to detail and problem-solving skills keep the facility running at its highest standard.

Beyond her administrative duties, Laura is a trusted advocate for participants, ensuring they feel heard, supported, and empowered on their journey toward personal and professional growth. She embodies the mission of New Life Facility by fostering an environment of efficiency, organization, and care, ensuring that every individual who walks through the doors receives the assistance they need.

Her ability to anticipate challenges, implement solutions, and maintain a seamless operational flow is what makes her an irreplaceable force within the organization. More than just a manager, Laura is the heartbeat of New Life Facility, dedicating her time and expertise to maintaining the structure and stability that allows the entire program to thrive.

email: admin@newlifefacility.com

Phone: 760-713-3720

Name: Kareem Starkes, RADT I
Title: Director of Reentry Engagement & Violence Prevention

Description:
Kareem is a seasoned reentry and rehabilitation professional with over two decades of lived experience navigating the justice system. He brings a uniquely impactful perspective to his role as Director of Reentry Engagement & Violence Prevention for New Life Facility’s Community Empowerment and Violence Reduction Initiative (CEVRI).

Having served 25 years of incarceration, Kareem emerged as a transformative leader, developing and facilitating evidence-based programs including “Goal Keepers,” “TAKE FLIGHT,” and the “Concentric Circle” parole hearing preparation support group. His initiatives have empowered hundreds of justice-involved individuals to break cycles of violence, addiction, and recidivism.

Kareem is a certified SMART Recovery Inside Out facilitator and trainer, as well as a CDCR YOP Mentor and trainer, having led high-impact recovery and mentorship programs across California’s prison system. He currently serves as the Prison Coordinator for the Ten Toes In Nonprofit Organization and is a registered Alcohol and Drug Technician (RADT I) through CCAPP, actively pursuing his SUD Counselor certification.

In his daily role outside New Life Facility, Kareem oversees the facilitation of the Home After Harm program at CSP–Los Angeles County, guiding returning citizens through trauma-informed reentry pathways that reduce violence and promote long-term stability. His leadership ensures that New Life Facilities CEVRI’s street outreach and reentry services are credible, compassionate, and grounded in the lived realities of those most at risk.

Certification:
Registered Alcohol and Drug Technician I (RADT I)
SMART Recovery Inside Out Facilitator & Trainer
CDCR Youth Offender Program Mentor & Trainer

Name: Alysia Webb, MA, CRC
Title: Director of Vocational Training & Rehabilitation

Description:
Alysia is a dedicated professional with a Master’s degree in Vocational Rehabilitation Counseling and a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC) designation. With extensive experience in career development and rehabilitation, she specialize in guiding individuals toward sustainable and fulfilling employment opportunities.

In her role, Alysia oversees educational training programs and instructional methodologies to ensure they align with the high standards upheld by New Life Facility. Her focus is on equipping participants with the skills and resources necessary to secure and retain careers in fields that align with their passions and are targeted for industry growth.

By fostering a structured and supportive learning environment, Alysia helps individuals build confidence, develop essential professional competencies, and navigate the workforce with success. Her goal is to empower every participant with the tools and guidance needed to achieve long-term career stability and personal fulfillment.

Certification:
Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC)

Name: Waylon Kreneck
Title: Public Outreach & Program Coordinator

Description:
With over five years of experience in addiction recovery services, Waylon serve as the bridge between agencies, participants, and community resources to ensure a seamless network of support. As the Public Outreach & Program Coordinator at New Life Facility, he focuses on fostering partnerships, advocating for participant needs, and creating pathways to success through recovery and rehabilitation programs.

In addition to outreach and coordination, Waylon is an instructor in recovery services and anger management, equipping individuals with the tools needed to achieve personal growth, emotional regulation, and sustained sobriety. His approach integrates evidence-based strategies with real-world application, empowering participants to develop resilience, accountability, and a sense of purpose.

Certification:

RADT (Registered Alcohol & Drug Technician), CSRF (Certified SMART Recovery Facilitator)(pending), and CAMS (Certified Anger Management Specialist II) (pending), I am committed to guiding individuals through their recovery journey with knowledge, empathy, and unwavering support. My goal is to help build strong, sustainable support systems that empower individuals to regain control of their lives and thrive.

Name: John  Adams
Title: Logistics & Program Operations Coordinator

Description:
As the Logistics & Program Coordinator at New Life Facility, John plays a vital role in ensuring the seamless day-to-day functioning of our programs. His focus is on coordinating transportation, streamlining operations, and advocating for participants to ensure their voices are heard and their goals are within reach.

With a solutions-oriented approach, John oversees logistical planning to support both staff and program participants, ensuring they have the resources and support needed to succeed. Whether it's facilitating transportation, assisting with program coordination, or addressing immediate needs, he works diligently to remove barriers and create efficient pathways for growth and progress.

At the heart of John's role is a commitment to fostering an environment where every individual feels supported and empowered. By ensuring operational efficiency and advocating for participant success, he contributes to the mission of New Life Facility—helping individuals move forward with confidence and stability.

Name: Mark Andrues

Title: Instructor

Description: I have over 24 years experience working with the 12 steps. Currently I am a student in my undergraduate program for addictive studies. Some of my greatest experiences have been when I was working as a residential counselor facilitating groups and helping clients towards their recovery goals. Additionally, my work with people in an outpatient environment has allowed me to guide clients while they encounter the pressures and triggers of every day life. I have a dedication for helping deliver on some of the lessons I have learned in life so that others may benefit from my experiences.

Certification:

CAADE (Certified Drug and Alcohol Counselor), CAMS-II (Certified Anger Management Specialist-II)

Memberships: 

NAMA (National Anger Management Association), ACA (American Counseling Association)

Name: Stephanie West

Title: Instructor

Description: I am a dedicated parenting instructor and a proud mother with over 4 years of experience working closely with children and parents. For the past 2 years, I have specialized in learning, applying, and instructing Positive Discipline Parenting techniques. This approach emphasizes mutual respect, connection, and problem-solving, offering parents tools to nurture cooperation and responsibility in their children without resorting to punitive measures.

My passion lies in empowering parents to navigate the complexities of both co-parenting and independent parenting in a positive, effective manner. By fostering communication, understanding, and empathy, I help parents build stronger relationships with their children and create environments where everyone thrives. My goal is to share practical strategies and life lessons to support families in building respectful and harmonious dynamics.

Certification:

PPE (Positive Parenting Educator )

Name: Michelle Villanueva

Title: Instructora/Instructor

Soy bilingüe y estoy profundamente comprometido con apoyar a los clientes en su crecimiento personal, trabajando directamente con ellos como instructor o traductor. Me esfuerzo por asegurar que reciban la instrucción de mayor calidad en áreas críticas como la crianza de los hijos, el manejo de la ira y la intervención para agresores (violencia doméstica), las cuales son a menudo esenciales para cumplir con los requisitos ordenados por el tribunal. Mi objetivo no es solo ayudar a los clientes a cumplir con estos mandatos, sino también proporcionar un entorno compasivo y comprensivo donde puedan aprender y aplicar genuinamente estas habilidades para mejorar sus vidas. Tengo una gran pasión por ayudar a las personas a reconstruir su autoestima y crear un futuro más brillante para ellos y sus seres queridos. Al ofrecer clases diseñadas con empatía y experiencia, busco equipar a los clientes con las herramientas necesarias para enfrentar sus desafíos y fomentar relaciones más saludables y positivas en el futuro.

I am bilingual and deeply committed to supporting clients in their personal growth by working directly with them as either an instructor or translator. I strive to ensure they receive the highest quality instruction in critical areas such as parenting, anger management, and batterer's intervention (domestic violence), which are often essential for meeting court-ordered requirements. My goal is not only to help clients comply with these mandates but to provide a compassionate, understanding environment where they can genuinely learn and apply these skills to improve their lives. I am passionate about helping individuals rebuild their sense of self and create a brighter future for themselves and their loved ones. By offering classes designed with both empathy and expertise, I aim to equip clients with the tools they need to navigate their challenges and foster healthier, more positive relationships moving forward.

Certification: 

Certified Professional Supervised Visitation Monitor 

Phone (Spanish): (442) 438-4214

email: admin@newlifefacility.com

Name: Lillian Dorton

Title: Treasurer/ Operations Manager/ Social Media Manager

Description: I have a skill for working with various platforms to present an image that aligns with the vision and practices of a company. With New Life Facility I found a company that truly cares about their clients and wants to ensure that their needs and concerns are being addressed. This is most effectively done for many through engagement in the online world. I have a passion for overseeing company’s interactions with the public through implementing content strategies on social media platforms. My duties include analyzing engagement data, identifying trends in customer interactions and planning digital campaigns to build community online. My goal is to use posts, comments and replies to engage with clients to develop a relatable company voice. 

email: admin@newlifefacility.com

Phone: 760-713-3720