CVAP Counselling in Burnaby
Crime Victim Assistance Program Counselling in BC
Starting Crime Victim Assistance Program (CVAP) counselling is like getting back behind the wheel after an accident that wasn’t your fault. You were hit, suddenly, unexpectedly, and now everything feels different. Even familiar roads might seem unfamiliar. You may feel tense, cautious, or unsure if you can trust others on the road. As your counsellor, I’m in the passenger seat, supporting you without taking over the wheel. You set the pace, decide the turns, and choose when we pull over. Some sessions might feel like hitting traffic or navigating stormy weather, but you won’t be doing it alone. Together, we’ll rebuild your sense of safety, confidence, and control.
I am a registered clinical counsellor (#19428), committed to creating a compassionate and steady space for you to heal at your own pace.
At Ease Counselling in Burnaby offers in-person and online counselling for individuals seeking CVAP counselling. I support survivors of violence, abuse, and trauma as they navigate the healing process. This space is for you, whether you experienced a crime directly or were impacted as a witness or family member.
You do not have to heal alone. This work is challenging, and it takes courage. I am here to walk beside you as you begin or continue your healing journey and recovery.
What is CVAP Counselling?
CVAP counselling is funded by the government and can be accessed by individuals affected by a crime in BC. You may qualify for CVAP counselling if you:
- Are a direct victim of a crime
- Witnessed a traumatic incident
- Are an immediate family member of someone affected
- Experienced psychological harm as a result of the event
Crimes can include domestic violence, sexual assault, childhood abuse, human trafficking, hate crimes, or physical assault, among others.
CVAP counselling is trauma-informed and focused on helping you process and recover from the psychological, emotional, and physical impacts of these experiences. At Ease Counselling provides CVAP counselling in a safe, respectful, and culturally inclusive environment.
Benefits of CVAP Counselling
- Safety and validation
You may carry shock, fear, anger, grief, or shame long after the event has ended. In CVAP counselling, we gently process these emotions at your pace.
- Understanding trauma responses
Many survivors question their reactions. “Why did I freeze?” “Why can’t I stop thinking about it?” “Why am I still affected?” CVAP counselling offers psychoeducation on how trauma affects the brain and body. Understanding your nervous system responses can be the first step toward healing.
- Rebuilding trust and control
You may have lost trust in others, your body, or in your sense of safety. Through CVAP counselling, we begin to rebuild that trust. We explore grounding tools, boundaries, and ways to reconnect with your inner strength and resilience.
- Culturally sensitive support
As a BIPOC registered clinical counsellor, I understand how cultural values, intergenerational trauma, and family dynamics can shape our experiences of violence and recovery. Your cultural identity is respected, honoured, and welcomed in this space.
Counselling Approach
CVAP counselling is personalized to your needs and may include a combination of evidence-based approaches, such as:
This method helps identify how thoughts, emotions, and behaviours interact after trauma and supports strategies to shift unhelpful patterns..
- Culturally Sensitive counselling
This approach acknowledges the impact of systemic oppression, cultural norms, and identity in the healing process.
This includes skills for mindfulness, interpersonal effectiveness, emotional regulation, and distress tolerance to help you stay present and respond effectively to challenges.
Process distressing memories and trauma using guided eye movements or other forms of bilateral stimulation..
You lead the session, and I support you with empathy, acceptance, and respect for your experiences.
- Strengths-Based Counselling Therapy
This focuses on your resilience and inner resources, helping you recognize and access your strengths in healing.
This approach prioritizes your safety, consent, and empowerment throughout counselling.
How to Access CVAP Counselling in Burnaby
- Apply to CVAP
You can apply for CVAP through the Crime Victim Assistance Program via the BC government website. You do not need a police report to apply. Applications can be submitted within a year of the incident (with possible exceptions).
- Receive approval
Once approved, you’ll receive a letter outlining the number of counselling sessions you’re eligible for. Some clients also receive retroactive reimbursement.
- Book your sessions
Bring your claim number to your initial appointment, and I’ll take care of the rest. I can direct bill CVAP so you can focus on your healing without financial stress.
If you’re unsure where to start, I can guide you through the process or offer a free 15-minute consultation to help determine your next steps.
Why Choose At Ease Counselling for CVAP Counselling?
- Client-driven approach
At Ease Counselling sessions focus on meeting you where you are and working at your pace alongside you with compassion, kindness, and curiosity in Burnaby and online.
- Trauma-informed counselling
At Ease Counselling sessions incorporate evidence-based modalities based on your past trauma, the impact of this trauma, triggers, and your unique needs and goals.
- Anti-oppressive practice
At Ease Counselling understands the impact of inequality and oppression when supporting you in a safe, non-judgmental, inclusive space in Burnaby and online. People from all ethnic backgrounds, genders, and sexual orientations, including 2SLGBTQI+, are welcome.
