it definitely is very etiolated. But, it looks like there's some new growth coming from the center...that's a good sign at least!
The plant is starving for light, and its sense of seasons is probably all screwed up. Sounds like an east window isn't available, but do you perhaps have a southern or western window...preferably a drafty one?
Here's my line of thought: Artificial light is the only way you'd be able to get a VFT to its full glory this time of year. And that is not a cheap or easy process for a beginner. But it hasn't been getting enough light anyway, so putting it in full-blown light right away would burn it. If you stick it in a window, it will get a small amount of light. It won't be enough to recover, but at least it will be something. Plus it might help the plant sync up with the seasons again. With any luck, by spring it will be healthy enough to stick outside in full sun.
It's not looking too spiffy, but it could bounce back. Be patient...it won't look good for a while.