Victims Of Crime Counselling
Victims Of Crime
Experiencing or witnessing a violent crime can have a profound and lasting impact – it’s not uncommon for people to feel overwhelmed, anxious, or unsafe long after the incident itself has passed. At the Centre for Clinical Psychology, we understand how deeply these experiences can affect individuals and families – and we are here to help.
This guide explains everything you need to know about victims of crime counselling, especially as provided through FAS (Victims of Crime Financial Assistance Scheme) in Victoria. We’ll also outline how you or your loved ones can access support and how the Centre for Clinical Psychology can assist during this difficult time.
What is Victims of Crime Counselling?
Victims of crime counselling refers to psychological support services specifically designed to help people who have been affected by criminal acts. In Victoria, the Victims of Crime Financial Assistance Scheme (FAS) provides funding to cover the cost of counselling services, ensuring that those in need have access to timely, trauma-informed care.
Support for Victims of Violent Crime
FAS counselling is especially geared towards victims of violent crimes such as assault, family violence, sexual assault, robbery, and other acts that cause psychological or physical harm. The focus is not only on addressing the immediate aftermath of trauma but also on supporting long-term recovery and wellbeing.
Funded by the Victorian Government
FAS operates under a system funded by the Victorian Government. This financial assistance ensures that people are financially supported when seeking help and can access high-quality psychological support, free from financial stress.
Who Can Access FAS Counselling?
One of the most important aspects of FAS is its inclusive approach to supporting victims and their families. Access to victims of crime counselling is open to many people who are affected directly or indirectly by a crime.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for FAS-funded counselling, the crime must have occurred in Victoria, and it must have been reported to the police. You don’t necessarily need a criminal conviction for FAS to approve your application, but supporting evidence is required. Applications must usually be made within two years of the crime, though exceptions may be made in certain cases.
Types of Crimes Covered
FAS counselling is available for a wide range of criminal incidents including:
- Physical assault
- Sexual assault
- Domestic and family violence
- Homicide-related trauma
- Kidnapping or stalking
- Armed robbery
This list is not exhaustive, and each application is considered on a case-by-case basis.
Support for Secondary Victims and Family Members
Importantly, FAS recognises that trauma can extend beyond the primary victim. Secondary victims (such as family members, witnesses, or loved ones) may also be eligible for support. For example, the partner of someone who was assaulted may develop anxiety or behavioural issues and could benefit from counselling under FAS funding.
How FAS Counselling Can Help
Everyone responds to trauma differently. For some, symptoms may emerge immediately, while others may not notice the psychological effects until weeks or even months later. Victims of crime counselling is designed to support each person’s unique experience and recovery journey.
Emotional Support and Recovery
A safe and supportive counselling environment allows people to express their feelings, process the traumatic event, and begin to heal. Our clinicians are skilled in helping clients rebuild trust in themselves and the world around them.
Managing Trauma and PTSD
Counselling can be particularly effective for managing symptoms of trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) – this may include addressing flashbacks, sleep disturbances, hypervigilance, and mood swings. At the Centre for Clinical Psychology, our psychologists use evidence-based treatments such as Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) and CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy).
Rebuilding Confidence and Safety
One of the long-term goals of victims of crime counselling is to help people regain their sense of safety and control in their lives. This might include learning new coping strategies, addressing changes in behaviour, or navigating social relationships and daily routines.
What’s Included in Victims of Crime Financial Assistance Scheme (FAS)-Funded Counselling at the Centre for Clinical Psychology?
Counselling is not only highly supportive, but also practical and accessible – here’s what you can expect.
- Number of Sessions Available: FAS will support an initial five session and then can support funding of 20 counselling sessions. Sessions may be approved beyond this depending on the nature of the trauma and your progress in therapy. Your psychologist can assist in applying for extensions as needed.
- Small gap fees: Sessions approved under FAS will fund the majority of your counselling with a small gap fee similar to Medicare.
- Confidential and Flexible Support: All counselling sessions are strictly confidential. Our psychologists offer flexible scheduling options, including telehealth services, making it easier for you to access support in a way that works for your life and circumstances.
The Application Process
Applying for FAS funding may seem daunting, but help is available. Understanding the steps can make the process more manageable.
How to Apply for Counselling
To apply, you’ll need to complete an application form via the FAS website. In your application, you’ll describe the crime, how it affected you, and the support you are seeking. There are also help line numbers on the main victims of crime page, where you can find out more. This includes in other langagues.
What Documents You’ll Need
You may be asked to provide:
- A police report or statement
- Medical or psychological reports
- Details of the crime and its impact on you
- Any legal documents, such as intervention orders
Need help with your FAS application? Contact us
If you or someone you care about has been affected by crime, know that help is available – and you don’t have to face it alone. At the Centre for Clinical Psychology, our experienced team of psychologists provides compassionate and expert support for people accessing victims of crime counselling Melbourne-wide.
We are proud to work with the Victims of Crime Financial Assistance Scheme in Melbourne and across Victoria to deliver evidence-based, trauma-informed care. If you have any questions about whether you’re eligible for VOCAT funding or would like assistance with the application process, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us – let us help you take the first step towards healing.
Book an appointment
To see one of our Carlton-based trauma psychologists, you can call the Centre for Clinical Psychology
Trauma psychologist Melbourne / Trauma therapy Melbourne / Complex trauma therapy Melbourne
