Comprehensive Behavioral Health Services at UCF: A Guide to Student Well-being
The University of Central Florida (UCF) is committed to supporting the holistic well-being of its students, offering a wide array of health services designed to address both physical and mental health needs. From preventative care to specialized treatment, UCF provides numerous resources to help students thrive. The Health Center offers a variety of services to support student health and well-being.
Mental Health Support
UCF recognizes the importance of mental health and provides comprehensive services through the Health Center and Counseling & Psychological Services (CAPS).
Psychiatric Care
Limited psychiatric care is available at the UCF Health Center, provided by board-certified psychiatrists and psychiatric nurse practitioners. Depending on the severity and complexity of the diagnosis, psychiatrists may provide psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment. Referral to community psychiatrists can be facilitated on an as-needed basis. A referral is required prior to scheduling with a Health Center psychiatrist. Please have your previous psychiatric records sent to the UCF Health Center prior to your initial appointment. Some conditions, including ADD/ADHD, require that comprehensive psychoeducational/neuropsychological testing be completed within the previous 3 years prior to the initiation of stimulant medication per Student Health Services policy.
Substance Use Disorder Services
For students struggling with addiction, UCF offers comprehensive Substance Use Disorder services. These services treat both substance use disorders as well as process addictions which include (though not limited to) gambling, video games, food, sex, and pornography addictions. Your first session with us will include an assessment with one of our licensed treatment providers to establish which form of treatment will be best for you. The approach to therapy is non-judgmental, utilizing evidence-based treatment modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing.
On-Campus Support Groups
To foster a supportive community, UCF hosts several on-campus support groups. These groups, including Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous, Al-Anon, and other relapse-prevention groups, meet weekly.
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Eating Disorder and Body Image Treatment (EDMT)
UCF provides a specialized team of professionals dedicated to the treatment and care of eating disorders and body image concerns. The Eating Disorders Management Team (EDMT) includes medical providers, dietitians, therapists, and psychiatrists from Student Health Services and Counseling & Psychological Services. To get started, students can consult with a medical provider at the Health Center, or a counselor at Counseling and Psychological Services.
UCF RESTORES and the 2nd Alarm Project
UCF is committed to addressing trauma and mental health, particularly for first responders. The 2nd Alarm Project has joined UCF RESTORES, strengthening our commitment to first responder mental health. UCF RESTORES - which includes the 2nd Alarm Project - is a nationally recognized leader in evidence-based trauma treatment and mental health training. For over a decade, UCF RESTORES has pioneered advancements in trauma management, serving first responders, veterans, active-duty personnel, and civilians impacted by mass violence, natural disasters, and more. As of January 2025, the 2nd Alarm Project is now a component of UCF RESTORES. Founded in 2019 to support Florida’s first responders, the 2nd Alarm Project brings grassroots expertise in peer support coordination, mental wellness program development, comprehensive training, and resource navigation. UCF RESTORES specializes in delivery of peer support training for first responders and public safety leaders via our REACT training program.
Physical Health Services
In addition to mental health support, UCF offers a wide range of physical health services to ensure students' overall well-being.
General Medical Care
Student Health Services provides comprehensive medical care for various health needs. The focus is to prevent and treat sports or exercise-related injuries.
Allergy Clinic
This service is available for students who have already begun taking allergy immunotherapy. Students must have received their first round of shots by their allergist before they can start receiving injections at our clinic. Note: The clinic does not perform the initial allergy testing, nor does it administer the first round of injections. There are fees associated with the injection service, which may be insurance eligible. You need to have your allergist complete an Allergy Packet prior to your first appointment with the Allergy Clinic.
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Physical Therapy
The UCF Health Physical Therapy Clinic is a faculty practice that provides physical therapy services to UCF and the local community. All care is provided by licensed physical therapists who are clinical experts and faculty members of the UCF Division of Physical Therapy.
Diabetes Care
Student Health Services is well equipped to assist Type 1 diabetic students with their day-to-day health needs. We can refer to a local endocrinologist if needed. There is also a Type 1 Diabetic program which provides a variety of special support and educational services. The group meets monthly and free dinner is provided!
International Health Clinic
The International Health Clinic supports the wellness of both students traveling abroad and international students alike. Our providers specialize in travel-related education and culturally sensitive health care services. Available for students traveling or studying abroad, our Travel Clinic will provide you with the latest information from the Centers for Disease Control. Be sure to schedule your appointment 6-8 weeks prior to your travel departure.
Clinical Dietitian Services
Clinical Dietitian services are available to students who have obtained a referral from their healthcare provider.
Additional Support Services
UCF Victims Services
UCF Victims Services has offices within the ORANGE POD of the Student Health Center. Their advocates offer CONFIDENTIAL support, crisis intervention, reporting and disclosure options, safety planning, information and referrals, practical assistance, and educational programs. Our clients are informed of all their reporting and disclosure options and we empower them to make the best decision for themselves.
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Referrals
The referrals department is here to assist patients who require specialty care, imaging or testing services that we do not offer in-house, or if the patient prefers to see an in-network provider. The referrals office staff work individually with patients to direct them to the care they need within their insurance network, if applicable. Any services rendered outside of Student Health Services are not covered under the Student Health Fee, and patients are fully responsible for the charges they incur. If students require specialty care outside of our in-house services, the UCF Health Faculty Physician Practice can help students in areas such as endocrinology, dermatology, gastroenterology and more. These appointments are not covered under the Student Health Fee. Most major insurances are accepted.
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