Both work, and both are covered. How phone and video therapy compare, what each is like, and how to pick the one that feels most comfortable.
You can see a Brightrise therapist by video or by a simple phone call — whichever feels easier. Both are real therapy, both are private, and both are covered by Medicare for most people. There’s no wrong choice, and you can switch anytime.
Some people love seeing a friendly face on screen. Others would rather just talk, with no camera and nothing to set up. Here’s how the two compare, so you can pick what feels most comfortable.
Both work. Talking with a therapist by phone or by video is real, effective care — and Medicare covers both. The best choice is simply the one you’ll feel most at ease with. You can even start one way and change your mind later.
You and your therapist can see each other, which brings some of the warmth of sitting in the same room — from your own living room. 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 it’s not a mystery.
It’s exactly what it sounds like: you answer the phone and talk. No apps, no camera, no internet needed. Phone therapy is a great fit if technology feels daunting, if your internet is unreliable, or if you simply feel more open when you’re not on camera. It’s the same caring therapist and the same real session — just by voice.
| You might prefer… | If you… |
|---|---|
| Video | Like seeing the person you’re talking to, 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? Start with whatever sounds easier. Many people try one and switch — that’s 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 nothing out of pocket. 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. What matters most is feeling comfortable enough to open up, so the best format is the one that puts you at ease — for many people, that’s a simple phone call.
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.
Nervous about starting? Here's exactly what to expect in a first therapy session — no pressure, no couch, just a conversation with someone on your side.
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