Both work and both are covered. Why video can help you and your therapist connect, how phone compares, and how to choose what feels comfortable.
You can meet your Brightrise therapist by video or by phone, whichever feels right for you. Both are real, private therapy that Medicare covers for most people. Many people find video especially helpful, because seeing each other makes it easier to build a warm, connected relationship. Phone works well too, and you can switch anytime.
Some people love seeing a friendly face on screen; others would rather simply talk. Here’s how the two compare, so you can pick what feels most comfortable.
Both work, and Medicare covers both. If you’re comfortable with it, video has a real advantage: so much of how we connect comes through facial expressions and tone of voice, and seeing each other helps you and your therapist get to know one another and feel at ease together. That said, phone therapy is genuine, effective care, and for some people it’s the better fit. You can start one way and change your mind later.
You and your therapist can see each other, which brings much of the warmth of sitting in the same room, from your own home. Being able to read each other’s expressions helps the two of you build trust and understanding more quickly. You’ll need a smartphone, tablet, or computer with a camera and an internet connection. When it’s time, you tap a link we send you, and there’s your therapist. We help you test it beforehand so nothing feels like a mystery.
It’s just what it sounds like: you answer the phone and talk. No apps, no camera, no internet needed. Phone therapy is a good fit if video isn’t practical for you, if your internet is unreliable, or if you simply feel more at ease off camera. It’s the same caring therapist and the same real session, by voice.
| You might prefer… | If you… |
|---|---|
| Video | Would like to see the person you’re talking with and build the relationship face to face, and are comfortable using a phone, tablet, or computer |
| Phone | Want the simplest possible setup, don’t have reliable internet, or feel more relaxed without a camera |
Not sure? If you’re able, video is a lovely way to start, and you can always switch to phone. Many people try one and change later, which is completely fine.
Yes. Medicare permanently covers mental health care by telehealth from home, including audio-only phone sessions for people who can’t or would rather not use video. For most people that means little or no out-of-pocket cost. See our guide on Medicare and therapy for the details.
Whichever you choose, you won’t be left to figure it out alone. We help you get set up, do a quick practice run if you’d like, and there’s always a real person to call if something doesn’t work. When you’re ready, you can get started and we’ll walk you through it.
Yes. Talking with a licensed therapist by phone is real, effective care, and Medicare covers it. Video can help you and your therapist connect a little more easily, since we share so much through facial expressions, but what matters most is choosing the format where you feel comfortable enough to open up.
Not for phone therapy — any working phone will do, with no apps or internet required. For video therapy, you’ll need a smartphone, tablet, or computer with a camera and an internet connection. We help you set up and test whichever you choose.
Yes. Medicare permanently covers mental health care by telehealth from home, including audio-only phone sessions for people who can’t or would prefer not to use video. Most people pay little or nothing with a supplement. See our guide on Medicare and therapy for details.
Absolutely, anytime. Many people start one way and change later as they get more comfortable. There’s no wrong choice and no commitment — you and your therapist can use whatever works best for you on a given day.
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