Did You Know?

Victims of crime in British Columbia can apply online for financial assistance through the Crime Victim Assistance Program (CVAP). CVAP funding can be used to cover the cost of counselling, giving you access to FREE, trauma-informed support to CVAP-approved counsellors in Greater Vancouver.

What is CVAP?

CVAP (Crime Victim Assistance Program) is a BC government program that helps victims of violent crime access financial support and services. If approved, CVAP can cover costs like counselling/therapy, medical expenses, safety needs, and lost incomerelated to the crime. Support is available to victims, some family members, and certain witnesses, even if charges weren’t laid.

How To Apply

Here’s a simple step-by-step to apply to CVAP online (BC Crime Victim Assistance Program)

1. Open the CVAP online application

• CVAP Web Form: https://justice.gov.bc.ca/cvapwebform/

2. Choose the right application type

• Select whether you’re applying as a Victim, Immediate Family Member, or Witness.

3. Fill in the form. Have (if you can):

• Your contact info

• Date/location of the incident

• Police file number (if there is one)

• Any injury/impact details (physical/psychological)

4. Upload/attach any supporting documents (if available) 

• Examples: police info, medical notes, safety order/conditions, etc.

5. Submit the application

• After you submit, save/record any confirmation details you receive.

6. Watch for your claim number / CVAP follow-up

• CVAP may contact you for more info. Once registered/approved, you’ll receive a claim number and benefit details.

How To Get CVAP-Funded Counselling

1. Once approved

• CVAP gives you a claim number and tells you what’s covered.

2.. Find a counsellor who accepts CVAP

• Ask directly: “Do you accept CVAP and direct bill?”

•VictimLinkBC can help you find one: 1-800-563-0808 (24/7).

3. Book your appointment

• Share your CVAP claim number so the counsellor can bill CVAP.

4. Start counselling

• Confirm there’s no extra cost before your first session.

Immediate Support

It can take several weeks to a few months for the CVAP office to review your application and make a decision. If you require immediate support call 211, explain your situation, and they will help you find the right support, right now.

👉 To learn more visit:211 British Columbia

 

List of CVAP-Funded Counsellors

Below are counsellors that offer trauma counselling in the Greater Vancouver area.

Vancouver

• Roya Counselling

Specializes in trauma and crime-related counselling; CVAP direct billing.

• Lavender Counselling

Multiple clinicians experienced with CVAP clients.

• Charting Pathways

Team-based practice with CVAP-approved counsellors.

• Liana Yip Counselling

Individual RCC offering CVAP counselling.

Richmond

• Counsel Me Vancouver

Trauma-informed team; multiple CVAP-approved counsellors.

North Vancouver

• North Shore Stress & Anxiety Clinic

Trauma-informed counselling; some clinicians accept CVAP.

• Counsel Me Vancouver

West Vancouver

• North Shore Stress & Anxiety Clinic

Commonly serves West Van clients under CVAP.

• Roya Counselling (virtual)

Burnaby

• Wellbeing Counselling Services

CVAP-approved counsellors; in-person and virtual options.

• Charting Pathways

New Westminster

• Family Services of Greater Vancouver

Trauma and violence-related counselling; some services covered via CVAP or referrals.

• Wellbeing Counselling Services

Coquitlam / Tri-Cities

• Venturous Counselling

Explicit CVAP counselling services.

• Roya Counselling (virtual)

Surrey

• Sources Counselling

CVAP counselling available with approved clinicians.

• Wellbeing Counselling Services

• Roya Counselling

Langley

• Ishtar Women’s Resource Society

Trauma-informed counselling and victim support; CVAP referrals accepted.

• Wellbeing Counselling Services

White Rock

• Sources Counselling

• Roya Counselling (virtual)

*Safety Warrior Mama is not a crisis service. If you are in immediate danger, call 911. For urgent emotional support, contact a local crisis or victim support line.

*Information on this website is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal, medical, mental health, or professional self-defense advice.
Terms of Use