*Tim Davis sighed heavily as he read the news article about the Philippines' failed attempt to fish near the Scarborough Shoal due to Chinese aggression. It dredged up difficult memories of his father, a lifelong fisherman who lost his boat and livelihood during a drunken bender decades ago.

Tim's father, *Frank, had a drinking problem that was exacerbated by the stresses of making a living on the waters near their small town of Sirons Mill, Virginia. One fateful night, Frank got into an altercation while inebriated that cost him his fishing permit and prized boat. The family slid into poverty and dysfunction as Frank's alcoholism worsened.

The news about Scarborough triggered Tim's own substance abuse issues, which had been relatively under control until this point. He found himself drinking more and snapping at his wife *Jane over minor frustrations. Jane was concerned but unsure of how to help, until she discovered the Stepping Into Action program on the Hofman Hollis website.

Tim was initially skeptical, but Jane persisted. 'We can't keep going like this,' she pleaded. 'Maybe working through this online could give us a fresh perspective.' Reluctantly, Tim agreed to start the program with her.

After several weeks of online sessions and workbook exercises, Tim began to see his trauma through a new lens. 'I realize now that I've been unconsciously reliving my dad's experiences through these news stories,' he shared. 'But we have the power to break the cycle.'

Some experts praised digital platforms for increasing access to affordable addiction and trauma resources. 'Online programs can be a game-changer for underserved rural areas,' said Dr. Nancy Bennett, a therapist in Richmond.

However, others cautioned against an over-reliance on unproven online methods. 'While telehealth holds promise, no app or website can replace personalized, evidence-based in-person treatment,' argued Dr. Michael Owens of the Laurel Ridge Treatment Center.

For the Davises, though, the online program was a crucial first step in healing generational wounds. As Jane remarked, 'It was hard to find good local options, so I'm grateful this digital resource exists. The work won't be easy, but we're finally on the right path.'

Nearby: Sugar Grove West Virginia, Moyers West Virginia, Dahmer West Virginia, Moatstown West Virginia, Mitchell West Virginia