CVAP Counselling
Individual Counselling: A Safe and Confidential Space for Personal Growth
Experiencing a crime can be deeply traumatic, leaving lasting emotional, psychological, and physical effects. If you or a loved one has been impacted by a crime in British Columbia, you don’t have to navigate the healing process alone. The Crime Victim Assistance Program (CVAP) provides financial support for counselling and other essential services to help victims, witnesses, and their immediate family members recover.
At Mind Matters Counselling, we offer CVAP-funded counselling to provide a safe, supportive space for healing. Whether you are dealing with trauma, anxiety, PTSD, grief, or emotional distress, we are here to help you process your experiences and regain a sense of control over your life.
What is CVAP Counselling?
The Crime Victim Assistance Program (CVAP) is a government-funded initiative that helps individuals affected by crime receive the support they need. This program covers the costs of counselling for:
Victims of crime
Individuals who have been directly harmed physically, emotionally, or psychologically.
Witnesses of crime
Those who have seen a traumatic event and are struggling with its effects.
Immediate family members
Parents, spouses, children, or other close relatives of a victim.
The goal of CVAP counselling is to provide trauma-informed care, helping individuals process their experiences, develop coping strategies, and work toward emotional healing.
Who is Eligible for CVAP?
You may qualify for CVAP benefits if you have experienced or been impacted by:
Violent crimes
Assault, sexual assault, robbery, or attempted murder.
Domestic violence
Emotional, physical, or psychological abuse within relationships.
Homicide
Support for family members who have lost a loved one due to crime.
Human trafficking
Victims of exploitation, coercion, or
trafficking.
Child abuse
Physical, emotional, or sexual abuse in childhood.
Other traumatic events
Stalking, harassment, threats, or home invasions.
CVAP does not require a police report, which means you can access support even if no formal charges were filed.
Benefits of CVAP Counselling
Work through trauma, grief, anxiety, or PTSD in a safe, confidential environment.
Process fear, hypervigilance, or distress caused by the crime.
Learn healthy ways to manage stress, triggers, and emotional responses.
Loved ones of victims can also receive counselling to help them navigate their emotions.
CVAP covers the cost of counselling, removing financial barriers to accessing mental health care.
Our Approach to CVAP Counselling
At Mind Matters Counselling, we specialize in trauma-informed and culturally sensitive therapy, recognizing that experiences of trauma are deeply influenced by personal identity, cultural background, and community expectations. We integrate:
Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT)
Identifying and reshaping negative thoughts related to trauma.
Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)
Helping individuals process deep emotional pain and rebuild relationships.
Somatic Therapy
Addressing how trauma is stored in the body and promoting mind-body healing.
Culturally Informed Therapy
Understanding the role of culture, family dynamics, and societal pressures in shaping trauma responses and healing.
We recognize that South Asian and immigrant communities may experience additional barriers to seeking mental health support, including stigma, family expectations, and cultural misunderstandings. Our counselling approach ensures that you feel heard, validated, and supported in a way that aligns with your values and lived experiences.
How to Apply for CVAP Counselling
- Submit a CVAP Application:Visit the BC Government CVAP Website to complete the application form.
- Receive Approval : Once approved, you will be assigned a claim number.
- Book Your Counselling Session : Provide your CVAP claim number when booking with us, and we will handle the billing directly.
