Frequently Asked Questions

Ali is a social networking app designed to help support those struggling in an ongoing crisis, conflict or difficult time to connect with others who have been through a similar situation or are currently going through a similar situation. ALI is a virtual support group, a virtual friend and a shoulder to lean on in your time of need.

I created ALI after experiencing a very difficult time personally. I was surrounded by many friends and I had a great support system, however, no one could relate to what I was going through specifically. I went through several months of severe depression along with deep shame and I realized how many others were suffering in silence because they felt they had no one who could relate to their specific circumstance. Therapy helped some but I found myself needing to talk to someone I could relate to. My thoughts raced often at night, after the busy day was over and I had settled into bed, I would get on my phone and scroll and that's when it would catch up with me. I wanted ALI to be available when you needed it most to connect with others in your same shoes without the guilt and shame that so very often comes with depression and painful experiences in life.

Yes. ALI takes privacy and security very seriously. ALI has a high level of security that keeps all of your conversations safe and personal. You have the ability to report and block any threatening users and are highly encouraged to do so. Our goal is for you enjoy the best possible circle.

My name is Heidi and I am a mother of two, an accountant, an entrepreneur and the founder of ALI.  I have 4 Golden Retrievers, a few stray cats and I love traveling. You will find me at peace anywhere near the ocean. 

I created this app after going through a significantly difficult period in my own personal life and coming to the realization that despite my best efforts, I was struggling in ways I did not know how to cope with. I had a great job, a great support system of friends and coworkers that always gave me the "If you need anything I am here for you" line, and I know without a doubt that was the case. But what did I need? They had never experienced this type of loss so they couldn't relate to the mental anguish  I was feeling. I consumed myself with work and exercise and anything else I could think of to avoid any possible room for thoughts-and that eventually took a significant toll on my mental health.

In the midst of this, ALI was born. I wanted a safe space for others to connect with someone who could relate to them on the same level, someone who was going through, or had been through a similar experience that could be there to lean on when you needed each other most. We live in a virtual world with incredible access to make connections that can change the course of our lives. I needed to hear those comforting words from someone "I've been there."

Whatever you may be struggling with-death, divorce, finances, abuse, infidelity, family trials, anything that is possibly weighing on your heart, I know there are so many others out there who have been through it, are going through it or have been there and have overcome it.  My goal and hope with ALI is connecting you with each other so you can find the virtual support system you need to make through another day. I know what it feels like to see only darkness and no one should ever feel that way. No one should ever feel like there is no one that understands, no one to listen, no one to sit with until the dark becomes light.

ALI keeps all of your information confidential and if you need further support we are available to assist you via the app in finding resources in your area. I appreciate the support and if you are here reading this I wish you nothing but love and healing .

XOXO-Heidi