*Terry sat on the park bench in Tremont Park, New Jersey, his hands trembling as he read the news article about Terrence Shannon Jr., the former Illinois basketball star who was found not guilty of rape charges. The words on the screen seemed to blur as memories of his own traumatic experience flooded back, leaving him feeling anxious and overwhelmed.

For years, *Terry had buried the pain of being sexually assaulted during his college days. The news article, however, had triggered something deep within him, forcing him to confront the demons he had tried so hard to ignore.

It was then that *Terry stumbled upon the Stepping Into Action program on the Hofman Hollis website. At first, he was skeptical about the idea of online counseling, but something compelled him to give it a chance. The program's structured approach and emphasis on personal growth resonated with him, offering a glimmer of hope amidst his despair.

As *Terry delved into the program, he found himself on a journey of self-discovery and healing. The exercises and guided meditations helped him process his emotions in a healthy manner, slowly chipping away at the layers of trauma that had encased his heart. 'I never thought I'd find solace in an online program,' *Terry confided to his friend *Samantha. 'But it's like a lifeline that's helping me untangle the knots of my past.'

Experts in the field of trauma counseling had mixed opinions about the effectiveness of online programs. Some praised the accessibility and convenience they offered, while others raised concerns about the lack of in-person support. 'Virtual counseling can be a valuable tool, but it should never replace the human connection and personalized care that traditional therapy provides,' cautioned Dr. *Emily Thompson, a renowned psychologist.

Despite the controversy, *Terry found solace in the program's structured approach and the sense of community it fostered among its participants. He exchanged insights and experiences with others on a similar journey, learning that he was not alone in his struggles.

'The road to healing is never easy,' *Terry reflected, 'but it's a journey worth taking. The Stepping Into Action program has shown me that even the darkest of times can be transformed into opportunities for growth and self-discovery.'

Nearby: Greenridge New York, Fresh Kills New York