Psychotherapist licensed in New York, New Jersey, Florida, Massachusetts, to run across Rhode Island in wedding dress; here’s why

Providence, RI – On Friday, Vanessa Reiser, a licensed clinical social worker, advocate, author and survivor of narcissistic abuse, will run across the entire state of Rhode Island in a wedding dress to spotlight the hidden epidemic of narcissistic abuse. This symbolic run, starting in Foster and concluding in Providence, covering approximately 30 miles in a single day, will have Reiser aiming to educate communities, empower survivors, and raise funds for her nonprofit, Tell A Therapist, which connects victims with specialized clinicians to support their healing journeys.

Narcissistic abuse, a form of domestic violence characterized by psychological manipulation, gaslighting, and emotional domination, often leaves scars that are invisible to the outside world. Unlike physical abuse, which may leave visible marks, narcissistic abuse erodes a victim’s sense of self, leaving them questioning their reality and worth. Reiser, who has dedicated her career to helping survivors reclaim their voices, understands this firsthand. “This run is about breaking the silence,” she says. “Narcissistic abuse thrives in the shadows, where victims feel isolated and unheard. I want survivors to know they’re not alone, that their pain is valid, and that healing is possible.” Her choice to run in a wedding dress—a garment often associated with love and commitment—underscores the betrayal inherent in abusive relationships, where promises of care mask control and harm.

The Rhode Island run is not just a physical challenge but a call to action. Reiser plans to make stops along the route to engage with local communities, share educational resources, and foster conversations about recognizing and addressing narcissistic abuse. From small towns to urban centers, she hopes to spark dialogue among residents, policymakers, and service providers, emphasizing the need for systemic change in how society responds to this form of domestic violence, especially within the family court system where victims are further traumatized by a judicial system that does not understand this insidious form of domestic violence or doesn’t care or both. Funds raised during the event will support Tell A Therapist’s mission to provide survivors with access to trauma-informed therapy, legal advocacy, and community support networks. By amplifying survivors’ stories and equipping clinicians with the tools to address narcissistic abuse, Reiser is building a movement that prioritizes healing and empowerment.

This run marks the latest chapter in Reiser’s history of advocacy. In 2021, she captured national attention when she ran 285 miles across New York State in a wedding dress, a 12-day journey from Oswego to Jay Hood Park in New York City. That run, covered by People magazine, raised nearly $20,000 for domestic violence and brought unprecedented awareness to narcissistic abuse. Reiser’s New York run was more than a fundraiser; it was a personal testament to her survival. Having endured narcissistic abuse herself at the hands of a high-profile figure, she channeled her pain into purpose, using the run to reclaim her narrative and inspire others. The image of Reiser, running mile after mile in a flowing white dress, resonates with survivors who see their own struggles reflected in her determination.

Building on the success of her New York run, Reiser expanded her efforts to other states, each journey amplifying her message and extending her impact. In New Jersey, she ran from the Delaware River to the Atlantic Ocean. Her Massachusetts run took her through historic towns and bustling cities. In Connecticut, she continued the momentum.

Reiser’s nonprofit, Tell A Therapist, was born out of her recognition that survivors of narcissistic abuse often struggle to find clinicians who understand the unique dynamics of their experiences. Unlike traditional domestic violence, which may focus on physical harm, narcissistic abuse requires a nuanced approach that addresses gaslighting, emotional manipulation, and the long-term erosion of self-esteem. The funds raised from Reiser’s runs, including the upcoming Rhode Island event, directly support this mission, ensuring that no survivor is left to navigate their healing journey alone.

The Rhode Island run holds special significance for Reiser, as it marks a return to a state known for its tight-knit communities and progressive approach to social issues. She sees Rhode Island as a microcosm of the broader fight against narcissistic abuse—a place where grassroots efforts can have an outsized impact. By running, Reiser hopes to connect with residents who may not yet recognize narcissistic abuse in their own lives or communities.

The broader context of narcissistic abuse adds urgency to Reiser’s work. Studies estimate that 1 in 10 individuals will experience some form of psychological abuse in their lifetime, with narcissistic abuse often going unrecognized due to its covert nature. Victims may spend years in relationships—romantic, familial, or professional—before realizing the extent of the manipulation they’ve endured. The psychological toll can be devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, PTSD, and a fractured sense of self. Reiser’s runs aim to bridge this gap in awareness, educating the public and professionals alike about the red flags of narcissistic abuse and the pathways to recovery. Her work aligns with growing calls for reform in how domestic violence is addressed, from legal protections to therapeutic interventions, emphasizing that emotional abuse is just as damaging as physical harm.

Supporters can get involved by donating to Tell A Therapist, sharing updates on social media, or organizing local events to coincide with the run.

By running across the state in a wedding dress, Reiser is looking to challenge society to see narcissistic abuse for what it is: a pervasive, destructive force that demands attention and action. Her journey is a testament to the power of survivors to reclaim their stories and build a future where no one suffers in silence.