How the Crime Victim Assistance Program (CVAP) Can Help You Heal from Trauma
Going through a crime can be scary and overwhelming. If you’ve been hurt, seen a crime, or are a family member of someone affected, you might feel confused, sad, or anxious. The Crime Victim Assistance Program (CVAP) in British Columbia can help you get the support you need to heal.
What is the Crime Victim Assistance Program (CVAP)?
CVAP is a government program that helps people who have been affected by crime. It offers financial help to cover things like:
Free Counselling: You can talk to a therapist who understands trauma and can help you feel better.
Medical Costs: It can cover expenses for physical injuries caused by the crime.
Lost Wages: If you can’t work because of the crime, CVAP may help replace some of your income.
Other Help: This can include things like travel costs for treatment or making your home safer.
How Can CVAP Help You Feel Better?
Healing takes time, and you shouldn’t have to do it alone. Through CVAP, you can access free counselling and other support to help you cope with what happened. Here’s how it can make a difference:
Free Therapy Sessions: CVAP covers the cost of talking to trained therapists who use special techniques to help with trauma, anxiety, and stress.
No Financial Stress: Worrying about money shouldn’t stop you from getting help. CVAP pays for your counselling, so you can focus on healing.
Ongoing Support: Trauma doesn’t disappear quickly. CVAP provides long-term counselling so you can take the time you need to heal.
Who Can Get Help from CVAP?
You may qualify if:
You were a victim of a crime in British Columbia.
You saw a crime happen.
You’re a family member of someone affected by a crime.
You don’t need a police report or a criminal conviction to apply. But it’s best to apply as soon as you can because there are time limits for some claims.
How to Apply for CVAP
Get the Form: You can find the application on the CVAP website.
Collect Documents: Include papers that show what happened, like medical records or letters from a doctor or counsellor.
Submit Your Application: You can send it online or by mail. Victim service workers can also help you with the process.
Once approved, you can start using CVAP to access free counselling and other supports.
I Am Here to Help
As a CVAP-approved therapist, I understand how difficult it can be to heal after experiencing or witnessing a crime. I offer compassionate, trauma-focused counselling to help you feel safe, heard, and supported. With the cost covered by CVAP, you can focus fully on your healing journey without worrying about expenses.
If you’re eligible for CVAP, I would be honored to walk alongside you as you work through your feelings and begin to rebuild your life. You can reach out to me for more information on CVAP counselling here.
