CVAP Counselling

Healing After Violence or Crime
Compassionate Support When You Need It Most

Experiencing violence or crime can have a lasting impact—emotionally, mentally, and physically. You may be feeling overwhelmed, unsafe, or unsure where to turn. At Open Heart Counselling, we provide trauma-informed care through the Crime Victim Assistance Program (CVAP), helping you reclaim your voice, restore your safety, and begin healing.

Our virtual CVAP counselling is designed to meet you with empathy and respect, offering a safe space to process what happened and move forward—on your terms, at your pace.

What Is CVAP Counselling?

The Crime Victim Assistance Program (CVAP) helps individuals in British Columbia who have been impacted by crime or violence access financial support for counselling. You may be eligible for CVAP counselling whether you are a direct victim, a family member, or a witness.

Counselling can help address the emotional and psychological effects of:

  • Assault (physical, sexual, or emotional)

  • Intimate partner violence

  • Abuse or neglect

  • Stalking or harassment

  • Human trafficking

  • Loss due to criminal acts

  • Witnessing a traumatic event

What to Expect

You’ll be welcomed into a supportive and judgment-free space where your safety and comfort are prioritized. We use trauma-informed, evidence-based approaches such as EMDR, CBT, and grounding techniques to help you manage symptoms and build resilience.

In counselling, you may:

  • Process feelings of fear, anger, guilt, or grief

  • Learn how trauma affects the nervous system

  • Regain a sense of control and self-trust

  • Develop coping strategies to manage triggers

  • Reconnect with your identity and sense of safety

Take the First Step Toward Healing

If you have a CVAP file number or are applying for one, you may be eligible for free counselling sessions. We’ll help guide you through the process so you can focus on your healing.

Please note: All counselling services will be provided virtually at this time.

FAQs about CVAP Counselling

No. While reporting may help your application, it is not required for CVAP approval. You may still be eligible based on the nature of your experience. We can assist you in understanding the process.
CVAP may cover the full cost of counselling sessions, depending on your application and approval. We’ll confirm your coverage once your file number is available.
You can apply through the BC government’s CVAP portal. If you’re unsure how to begin, we’re happy to guide you or refer you to resources that can help with your application.

Who We Are

At Open Heart Counselling, we believe healing happens in safe, compassionate spaces. Our work is grounded in respect, connection, and a deep understanding of each client’s unique story.

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