On April 30, 2023, an unexpected news story about a sudden rise in online scams targeting small-town residents made headlines. For *Harriet Thompson*, a librarian in Donahue, Iowa, the impact of this news hit particularly close to home.

Years prior, *Harriet* had fallen victim to a similar scam, which had shaken her trust and confidence. As she read the article, old memories flooded back, bringing a wave of anxiety. 'I remember feeling so trapped and helpless,' she thought, her stomach knotting from the fear of history repeating itself.

Determined to regain control of her life, *Harriet* decided to follow the guidance provided in the Stepping Into Action program she found on hofmanhollis.com. The materials offered steps and strategies to overcome her fears and rebuild her trust in others. Inspired, she diligently worked through each module, finding solace in the structured approach.

'The most crucial step was forgiving myself,' she reflected, 'I learned it's okay to have been tricked. We need to handle it better in the future.'

Opinions from experts were divided. Some praised the program, citing its structured approach and accessibility as vital tools for overcoming trauma. Others criticized it, arguing that online programs lacked the personal touch necessary for true recovery.

Despite the conflicting opinions, *Harriet* found immense value in the program. 'Getting help, even remotely, was the best decision I could make,' she concluded, realizing that while finding nearby resources had been challenging, the online option provided the support she needed.

Nearby: Rock Island Arsenal Illinois