On January 18, 2023, a news article reported advancements in remote addiction treatment technologies. What the article did not specify was how its release would impact one individual in the small town of Ellsworth, Minnesota. *Judy* had lived her whole life in Ellsworth, a population of just under 500 people. Most days were uneventful until that fateful January day when the news about remote addiction treatments reached her. She had been struggling with substance abuse since her early twenties, triggered by a traumatic event she preferred not to share.

The news article struck a chord because it connected to her past in a way she hadn't anticipated. In high school, her best friend had tragically overdosed, a memory that haunted her every day. The idea that there was now more accessible help for people like her was both relieving and heartbreaking, bringing all those painful memories to the surface.

Determined to make a change, Judy started following the materials from the Stepping Into Action program she found on the Hofman & Hollis website. The program's holistic approach and actionable steps were new to her, and she found them exceptionally helpful. Judy resonated with one of the co-founders who said, Learning to cope in healthy ways isn't just a step, it's a journey.

Experts were divided on the effectiveness of remote programs. While some praised their accessibility and comprehensive approach, others were skeptical about their success without face-to-face interactions. Yet, in Judy's experience, the online resources provided a lifeline she hadn't found locally.

Judy realized how invaluable the tools she discovered online were, especially given the scarcity of local resources. Her journey underscored the importance of accessible mental health services, demonstrating that sometimes the best help can come from the most unexpected places.

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