The Residential Historical Abuse Program funds trauma-specific counselling for adults who were sexually abused as children or youth while living in the care of the British Columbia provincial government in placements including foster homes, group homes, and certain residential facilities. This program is contract-based with contracting private therapists across the region in their own offices.

To qualify for RHAP, you must sign a statement that says:

• you currently live in British Columbia and are over 19 years old
• you were under the age of 19 when you were sexually abused
• at the time of the abuse, you were living in a home or residential facility funded by the Province of British Columbia

You do not have to file a police report or prove that you were sexually abused to be eligible for RHAP. However, you will be required to identify the home or facility where the abuse occurred.

Self-refer by completing the one-page application and submit it by mail or fax. We are not able to accept applications by email due to privacy and confidentiality regulations.

Fax: (604) 874-7661
Mail: 200 – 520 West 6th Avenue Vancouver, BC V5Z 4H5

After you submit your application, RHAP will contact you by telephone or mail. If you do not have a counsellor, RHAP can help you find one. If you already have a counsellor, RHAP must ensure that they meet VCH’s professional standards. RHAP arranges payment directly with your counsellor. You and your counsellor will develop a treatment plan that may include individual, group or family counselling.