1. What does SISTAH stand for?

 

SISTAH stands for “Sharing Intimate Stories That Achieve Healing”.  This is a God-given title and concept that originated nearly 20 years ago. 

 

2. What is SISTAH?

 

SISTAH is a unique and wonderful opportunity to share our personal intimate stories with other women who may be experiencing similar issues.  This is beneficial for two central reasons.  First, it helps us understand that we are not alone, that someone else has been where we are, and that if our “sistah” was able to conquer something, so can we.  Secondly, the Bible tells us that we overcome by the blood of the Lamb and the word of our testimony (Revelation 12:11).  Sharing our stories serves as a tool for healing to ourselves, ministry to others, and a reminder to the enemy that we made it, or at least, we’re making progress.

 

3. What is the impetus behind SISTAH?

 

In my early 20s, I was a therapist, a single woman with no kids, and a new Christian.  Through I was making connections at my then-church with other Christian women, I struggled with several issues that I, at the time, didn’t feel comfortable sharing face-to-face.  Because of this, I would have loved a forum where I could have honestly discussed some serious topics with other ladies without fear of judgment.  “What if there was some way to communicate online with other women dealing with similar issues?” I thought and prayed.  And the concept of SISTAH was born.

 

4. Why are you re-starting SISTAH now?

 

Well, there was one small problem when the Lord gave me this vision almost 20 years ago.  Depending on your age, you may remember that back in the early 2000s, the internet wasn’t what it is now.  As much as I wanted to ask questions, share intimate stories with other ladies, and have genuine discussions, it just wasn’t feasible.  And as excited as I was about what the Lord had laid on my heart, it was difficult to find a platform that would allow me to connect with women locally, let alone nationally and beyond.  Nowadays, with access to email, blogs, and social media, there is an ease that we can communicate and share stories from women domestically and even internationally.  Because of this ease, we are now able to share our stories with other women in similar situations worldwide. 

 

5. What kind of topics does SISTAH cover?

 

SISTAH aims to cover any topic that affects any and all women, regardless of age, race/ethnicity, socioeconomic status, background, or anything else.  We discuss how ladies have dealt with loneliness, abuse, infertility, starting a business, regret/guilt, and colorism to name a few.  You can share a story about one topic, or all of them, or anywhere in between... it is entirely your choice!  As you’re sharing your story, you may find that we don’t have a topic that you’d like to share; if that’s the case, feel free to add it. 

 

6. But why should I share my intimate story?

 

Because if you’re like me, you have a story to tell and there is at least one person – probably 100 women – who can relate and benefit from hearing your intimate story.  I often think that if sharing my story will help one lady avoid the pitfalls I faced, then I’ll happily share it.  If something I say will assist one woman in achieving her goal sooner, then sign me up.  You definitely have a story to share and we’d love to hear it.

 

7. What is a memorandum of understanding (MOU) and why do I have to sign it before I start?

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Due to my background as a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) and as a professor and researcher, I always want to make sure individuals have a clear understanding about the upcoming process (whether it's therapy, class, or a research project) and I try to answer as many questions as possible in hopes of eliminating any confusion.  It is my goal that people feel comfortable and confident about their decision prior to providing their consent for participation.  I know it may seem long and tedious to read but it is definitely purposeful and necessary.

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8. I’m willing to share but who has access to my intimate story?

 

Only representatives of About F.A.C.E. Collaborative, LLC have access to the stories shared.  All stories will remain confidential (as far as permitted by law) and are stored on a secure computer which is password protected.

 

9. Do I receive any compensation for sharing my story with SISTAH?

 

Every woman who shares her intimate story is doing so completely and entirely voluntarily with the understanding that there will be no compensation, financial or otherwise.

 

10. I’d love to share my intimate story with SISTAH.  What do I do next?

 

We are so excited that you’ve decided to share your intimate story!!  Simply click here to start the process of sharing your story.  

 

11. Other questions? 

 

Email us at drshalaiwilliams@gmail.com (or click here) and we’d be happy to answer any questions you may have.

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