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Important: South Florida Bible College (SFBC) does not require students to have medical health insurance. However, it is strongly recommended that all F-1 students obtain health insurance to protect themselves from costly medical expenses while studying in the U.S.
Why You Should Consider Health Insurance
Medical care in the U.S. can be very expensive without insurance.
Insurance helps cover doctor visits, hospital stays, prescriptions, and emergencies.
Having insurance provides peace of mind and financial protection during your studies.
How to Find Health Insurance Plans
Compare Reputable International Student Insurance Providers
Specialists in health insurance for F-1 students include:International Student Insurance (ISI): https://www.internationalstudentinsurance.com
IMG (International Medical Group): https://www.imglobal.com/international-student-health-insurance
GeoBlue: https://www.geobluestudents.com
Student Health USA: https://www.studenthealthusa.com
PSI International Insurance: https://www.psiservice.com
What to Look for in a Plan
Coverage for doctor visits, emergency care, hospitalization
Prescription drug coverage
Mental health services
Medical evacuation and repatriation
Affordable premiums, deductibles, and copays
Flexibility and network of providers near your location
Purchase and Keep Proof of Insurance
After choosing a plan, purchase it online if possible and always keep your insurance card and policy details with you.
Using Healthcare Resources While Studying
Nearby Health Services: Check if nearby clinics offer affordable health services.
Urgent Care Centers: For minor injuries or illnesses, urgent cares are quicker and less expensive than emergency rooms.
Emergency Rooms: Only use for serious medical emergencies due to high costs.
Community Health Clinics: Provide discounted care based on income for students without comprehensive insurance.
Helpful Resources and Articles
International Student Insurance: https://www.internationalstudentinsurance.com/f1student/
IMG Student Insurance Plans: https://www.imglobal.com/international-student-health-insurance
GeoBlue Student Health Insurance: https://www.geobluestudents.com
Guide for International Student Health Insurance in the USA: https://www.sprintax.com/blog/international-student-health-insurance-us/
Affordable Care Act (ACA) Marketplace (note: may have restrictions for non-residents): https://www.healthcare.gov/
Is Mental Health Care Covered by Health Insurance Plans?
Most international student health insurance plans include coverage for mental health services, such as:
Therapy or counseling sessions (in-person or virtual)
Psychiatric evaluations and medication management
Crisis intervention and support services
Coverage and limits may vary by plan, so review your policy carefully to understand:
The number of covered therapy visits per year
Whether you need a referral or pre-authorization
Co-payments or deductibles for mental health services
Availability of telehealth (online video) counseling
How to Access Mental Health Services
SFBC Christian Counseling Lab
South Florida Bible College offers the Christian Counseling Lab, providing counseling services grounded in Christian principles. This is a valuable resource for students seeking support in a faith-based environment. Email christiancounselinglab@sfbc.edu for information on scheduling appointments.Campus and Community Resources
Nearby colleges or community clinics may offer additional counseling.
Check your health insurance provider’s network for in-network mental health professionals.
Many insurance plans offer telehealth counseling for convenience and privacy.
Local Mental Health Clinics and Support Groups
Community health clinics often provide affordable mental health care on a sliding fee scale.
Support groups and wellness workshops may be available through local nonprofits.
Mental Health Apps and Helplines
Use apps for mindfulness, stress relief, and counseling support as adjunct mental health tools.
For crisis support, call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 (available 24/7).
Tips for Using Mental Health Services
Mental health is important—seek help whenever needed.
Confirm your insurance coverage before booking appointments.
Keep records of therapy sessions and any prescriptions for insurance purposes.
Some plans cover mental health services worldwide, useful for telehealth or travel.
Helpful Resources
Mental Health America: https://www.mhanational.org/
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): https://www.nami.org/
American Psychological Association: https://www.apa.org/helpcenter/
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Call or Text 988
OVERVIEW OF MENTAL HEALTH CARE FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
DISCLAIMER: The video above was produced by internationalstudentinsurance.com. While International Student Services Department does not endorse any third-party insurance plan, we do find the information contained within the video to be helpful as a general overview of mental health care, awareness of mental health warning signs, myths, and ways to seek treatment.
LOCAL MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCES
Community Christian Counseling (English, Portuguese)
5137 Sheridan Street, Hollywood, FL 33021
954-989-1444
Diana Rice, LMHC (Christian)
Deerfield Beach, FL
954-817-0175
DaTerra Therapy
Vivian Lete, LMHC
Josias Da Silva (Christian)
917-459-2463
Smith Community Mental Health (accepts insurance)
601 S. State Road 7, Plantation, FL
954-321-2296
House of Protection (Portuguese)
600 SW 3rd Street, Ste 5100L, Pompano Beach, FL 33060
Naides Brum
561-305-2301
Mission Medical Center (English, Portuguese, Spanish)
9600 W. Atlantic Ave, Delray Beach, FL 33446
561-637-2757
Monica Carvalho (English, Portuguese, Spanish, Christian)
307 NE 15th St, Deerfield Beach, FL 33064
954-822-7590
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