VICCIR provides mental health counselling for immigrants, refugees, and newcomer families of all ages on Vancouver Island. Support is shaped around the realities people are living with: trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, displacement, relationship strain, parenting pressure, and the emotional weight of beginning again in a new place.
No one is refused care because of finances. Fees are discussed case by case, and VICCIR uses a sliding-scale approach whenever possible.
Who VICCIR is for
VICCIR works with people born outside Canada, including refugees, immigrant families, sponsored newcomers, and people at different stages of settlement. Counselling can be individual, couple, child, youth, or family-based depending on need.
Language and interpretation
When English is not the best language for care, VICCIR works with specially trained interpreters and multilingual counsellors so people can speak with clarity and confidence. Language support is treated as part of safe care, not as an afterthought.
What to expect
After contact or referral, staff review the situation, discuss fit, and help arrange next steps. Sessions are matched with the person or family's needs rather than forcing everyone into a single pathway.
Some clients work with one counsellor; others benefit from a broader team-based approach. Treatment plans are tailored to each individual — cultural norms are respected and you are encouraged to express yourself in your own language.
Get in touch
Contact VICCIR directly or come through a referral. Staff will talk through what's happening and what support might help.
Assessment and matching
Your situation is reviewed and you're matched with the right counsellor and interpreter for your needs.
Begin counselling
Sessions start at a pace that works for you. The approach adapts as things change — there is no fixed number of sessions.
Fees and access
Fees are discussed openly based on circumstances. If cost is a concern, bring it up early — the conversation is part of access planning.
Fee structure
VICCIR charges fees to help cover operating costs. The fee structure is designed to provide affordability and remove barriers to access. Fees are discussed on a case-by-case basis depending on the needs and circumstances of each individual and family.
For clients who are employed and require a Registered Clinician, a minimum fee supports the sustainability of services. For clients unable to pay, cases are thoughtfully assessed and they may be matched with a Registered Clinician, supervised master-level intern, or health cultural ambassador.
No-cost coverage
Refugee clients who meet IFHP (Interim Federal Health Program) requirements receive services at no cost during the first year of settlement. Fees may also be waived for clients who meet specific grant requirements.
Insurance and ICBC
Some insurance companies may reimburse your fees — VICCIR will provide a receipt. The decision to reimburse is made by your insurer, and it is your responsibility to follow their steps before your first session.
Direct billing may be available for ICBC. Please inform staff if you have ICBC coverage and would like VICCIR to bill on your behalf.
Cancellation policy
To cancel, call your counsellor, interpreter, or the office at least 24 hours before your scheduled appointment. If you do not attend and have not cancelled, you must pay half the session fee. If you miss three sessions without cancelling, VICCIR reserves the right to cancel further appointments.
Payment
You pay on the day of your counselling session. Higher fees may apply for couples and family therapy. All fee arrangements are confirmed before sessions begin.