If you or someone you care about has experienced a violent crime in B.C., you may have heard of the Crime Victim Assistance Program (CVAP). In particular, those living in or near Kamloops may want to know more about CVAP Program. One of the most important questions people ask is: Who qualifies as a victim under this program?
The definition is more specific than many people realize — and in cases involving child sexual abuse, there are important differences in how time limits are handled.
Below is a clear breakdown.
1. Primary Victims
A primary victim is someone who was directly injured — physically or psychologically — because of a violent offence that occurred in British Columbia.
To qualify, the person must:
- Have experienced a violent offence under the Criminal Code
- Have suffered physical injury or psychological injury as a result
- Have been harmed in B.C. (in most cases)
Examples of Violent Offences Covered
CVAP generally includes:
- Assault (including intimate partner violence)
- Sexual assault
- Child sexual abuse
- Criminal harassment (stalking)
- Human trafficking
- Robbery
- Kidnapping
- Homicide
IMPORTANT: A conviction is not required, and charges do not need to be laid. CVAP conducts its own assessment based on available information.
2. Child Sexual Abuse
Child sexual abuse is explicitly recognized as a qualifying violent offence under CVAP.
This includes offences such as:
- Sexual interference
- Sexual exploitation
- Invitation to sexual touching
- Other sexual offences committed against a minor
What About Time Limits?
For most violent crimes, there is generally a time limit to apply (typically within one year of the offence, though extensions may be granted).
However, for sexual offences — including child sexual abuse — there is no limitation period to apply to CVAP.
That means:
- A person who experienced sexual abuse as a child can apply decades later.
- The application does not expire simply because time has passed.
- Many adult survivors apply years later, often when they feel ready to begin healing.
CVAP Kamloops may still require supporting information (such as police reports, medical records, or therapeutic documentation), but the age of the incident alone does not disqualify someone.
3. Victims of Domestic Violence
Domestic violence qualifies when it involves a Criminal Code offence such as assault, threats, or coercive control.
A person may qualify if they experienced:
- Physical injury
- Psychological trauma
- Ongoing fear related to violence or threats
Children who witness domestic violence may also qualify if they experience psychological harm.
A secondary victim is typically an immediate family member of someone who was seriously injured or killed as a result of a violent crime.
This can include:
- Spouse or partner
- Parent
- Child
- Sibling
Secondary victims may qualify for counselling benefits and, in some cases, funeral or related expenses.
5. Witnesses to Violent Crime
A person who witnesses a violent offence and suffers psychological harm may also qualify.
Examples include:
- A child witnessing domestic violence
- A bystander witnessing a serious assault
- A family member discovering a loved one after a homicide
The key factor is documented psychological injury linked to the crime.
6. Parents or Guardians of Child Victims
When a child is the primary victim, parents or legal guardians may also be eligible for benefits that support the child’s recovery.
This may include:
- Counselling for the child
- Counselling for the parent to support the child
- Certain expenses directly tied to recovery
7. What Does Not Qualify?
CVAP does not generally cover:
- Property crime without injury
- Purely financial fraud
- Motor vehicle accidents (these are typically handled through ICBC)
- Situations where no qualifying violent offence occurred
There must be both a qualifying violent offence and a resulting injury (physical or psychological).
Why the Child Sexual Abuse Exception Matters
Many survivors believe they “missed their window” to apply because the abuse happened years ago. In cases involving sexual offences — especially child sexual abuse — that is not true.
There is no expiry on the right to apply.
For many survivors, disclosure and healing happen later in life. CVAP recognizes that reality and allows applications regardless of how much time has passed.
Support Through Future Focus Counselling Center
At Future Focus Counselling Center, we have therapists who are experienced in working with clients under the CVAP program. We understand the documentation process, the structure of approved sessions, and the emotional complexity that often accompanies CVAP applicants.
Counselling Coverage and Client Portion
CVAP provides funding for approved counselling sessions. Currently, CVAP covers $135 per session.
At Future Focus Counselling Center, our standard session rate is $165. This means clients are responsible for the remaining $30 per session.
We believe in being transparent about fees so clients can make informed decisions before beginning therapy. If you have questions about coverage, session approvals, or extensions, we are happy to walk you through the process.
Book a session or contact us at info@futurefocustherapist.com.
Stay Up-To-Date!
Subscribe For Blog Notifications