Center for Hope launches in Western New York

Collaborative effort created by professionals to assist victims of narcissistic abuse

Narcissistic abuse has become a term increasingly known to the public through news media reports. But for those who live with a narcissistic abuser, awareness is only the first step.

The Center for Hope, WNY, is a nonprofit organization founded by attorney and Buffalo School Board member Hope R. Jay as a place where those who are escaping a relationship with a narcissistic abuser can find the resources and guidance they need to regain control over their lives.

Jay founded the center along with several other professionals who have experience in dealing with the unique challenges that those who are leaving an abusive relationship must deal with to make a change. Legal advocacy, financial advice, real estate advice, mental health support, and holistic healing services are all offered at the Center for Hope.

“At the Center for Hope, we are experienced providers who are committed to helping people safely leave abusive relationships. People often struggle with many conflicting emotions when considering leaving an abuser,” Jay explained. “We know that people have many questions and may be unsure if leaving is the right thing to do for themselves and their children. Our supportive staff are here to guide you through this process of understanding and recognizing the signs of abuse, and to assist you through the process of recovery.”

“Abuse can take many forms, including financial and emotional," explained Taunya Fourtner Abaya, who provides financial advice to clients. “At the Center for Hope, we provide information and viable options to escape an abusive situation. Knowledge really is power when it comes to making life-changing decisions.”

When it comes to mental health services, Connie Przepasniak, one of the center’s mental health counselors, said “At the Center for Hope, we strive to ensure we are providing a safe place for our clients to experience their vulnerabilities while sharing their stories, as we assist them in recovering from narcissistic abuse.”

Currently, all services are provided directly by the individual providers who are working in collaboration through the website www.centerforhopewny.org.

A press release said, “Each provider was chosen by Jay for their work with survivors of narcissistic abuse that involves a narcissist controlling every aspect of a victim’s life, making it exceedingly difficult for them to break away from their abuser. Often the abuser uses multiple forms of emotional abuse and manipulation that causes victims to feel increasingly isolated, helpless and fearful. Experienced providers know how to guide a victim through the maze of abuse and toward the path of hope and healing.”

Those involved in the center said they believe victims of narcissistic abuse deserve the most experienced legal representation, mental health support, financial and real estate advisement, and opportunities for self-care and healing that are available. 

The service providers include:

Legal: Hope R. Jay, Esq.

Mental health: Connie Przepasniak, LMHC; and Susan Kushner Wolfson, LMSW

Financial advisement: Tauyna Fourtner Abaya, CFP

Real estate advisement: Alison Burke

Holistic healing: Karen Di Salvo, reiki master

The Center for Hope is also planning a future location where all services can be provided in one building. For more information, visit www.centerforhopewny.org.