Geode offers hybrid care with advanced treatments: If you're in one of six states (Georgia, Illinois, Nebraska, North Carolina, Texas, or Wisconsin), Geode provides both in-person and virtual appointments, plus specialized options like TMS and Spravato for treatment-resistant conditions.
Headspace delivers nationwide virtual access with integrated wellness tools: Available in all 50 states, Headspace combines therapy, psychiatry, and coaching with self-guided meditations and sleep content in a single mobile app.
Insurance coverage varies significantly between platforms: Geode accepts Medicare and most commercial plans but not Medicaid, while Headspace partners with major insurers and select Medicare Advantage and managed Medicaid plans.
In-person care is only available through Geode: If face-to-face sessions matter to you, Geode is the only option of the two, as Headspace operates exclusively through video and text-based services.
Rula as another option: Rula combines therapy and psychiatry across a large network of 21,000+ providers, accepting most major insurance plans and offering virtual and in-person care with clear upfront costs for many patients.
Choosing a mental health platform shouldn't add to the stress you're already managing. Whether you need comprehensive psychiatric care with in-person options or prefer online therapy with integrated wellness tools, understanding what each service actually delivers matters.
In this guide, we'll compare Geode and Headspace — two platforms with fundamentally different approaches to mental healthcare. We'll break down their costs, treatment options, insurance coverage, and accessibility so you can make a decision based on what works for your specific situation.
You could also consider Rula when exploring mental healthcare options. Rula works with a nationwide network of over 21,000 licensed providers, accepts most major insurance plans, and offers both therapy and psychiatry through virtual and in-person appointments. With insurance, many patients pay around $15 per session.
Geode vs. Headspace: Differences at a glance
Geode and Headspace take different approaches to mental healthcare. Geode operates as a hybrid in-person and virtual psychiatric practice with comprehensive clinical services, while Headspace began as a meditation app and has expanded to include therapy and coaching services.
Understanding these core differences can help you determine which platform aligns with your specific mental health needs and preferences, whether you're looking to find a therapist quickly or want a more app-based experience.
Average cost per session:
Geode: Copays and fees vary by insurance plan; contact the office for current pricing
Headspace: $0–$35 per session with insurance; $149 per session without insurance coverage
Rula: $15 per session copay; self-pay is $150 per session for individual therapy, $165 per session for couples/family therapy, and psychiatry costs $225 for an initial intake and $175 for follow-up appointments
Provider network size:
Geode: Specific provider count is not publicly listed
Headspace: Total provider count is not publicly disclosed
Rula: 21,000+ licensed providers
Modes of communication:
Geode: In-person appointments at physical office locations, secure video visits online, and secure messaging
Headspace: Video sessions for therapy and text-based chat for coaching (three sessions per month), with no in-person option available
Rula: Live video telehealth appointments and secure messaging, plus in-person therapy appointments at provider-operated offices (availability depends on provider/location)
Available treatment types:
Geode: Psychiatry, talk therapy, medication management, psychotherapy, TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation), and Spravato (intranasal ketamine)
Headspace: Therapy, psychiatry, mental health coaching, guided meditations, sleep content, mindfulness resources, and an AI companion named Ebb
Rula: Individual therapy, couples therapy, family therapy, child therapy, teen therapy, and psychiatry
Insurance coverage:
Geode: In-network with most commercial insurance plans and Medicare/Medicare Advantage plans; does not accept Medicaid
Headspace: Partners with major health insurance providers including Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, and Anthem; in-network with select Medicare Advantage plans and managed Medicaid care plans
Rula: Accepts 100+ commercial insurance plans plus select Medicare and Medicaid
Geographic availability:
Geode: Available in six states (Georgia, Illinois, Nebraska, North Carolina, Texas, and Wisconsin).
Headspace: Available across all 50 U.S. states and Washington, D.C.
Rula: Available in all 50 states and Washington, D.C.
Treatment focus areas:
Geode: Nine specialty areas listed, including anxiety, ADHD, and trauma
Headspace: Focuses on anxiety, depression, stress, relationships, sleep, and grief
Rula: 180+ clinical specialties
Diversity and patient focus:
Geode: LGBTQIA+ affirming care and specialized child and adolescent services
Headspace: Reports that 54% of its coaches identify as BIPOC, provides culturally responsive care, and offers a free Headspace for Teens program for ages 13 to 18
Rula: 51% of the provider network identifies as BIPOC; providers represent 40+ languages and a wide range of backgrounds
Session format options:
Geode: A hybrid model with both in-person appointments and virtual video visits
Headspace: A virtual-only platform with no in-person session options
Rula: Virtual therapy and psychiatry through live video appointments, plus in-person therapy
Geode at a glance
Geode is a hybrid mental healthcare practice that combines in-person and virtual psychiatric services across six states. Founded in 2021, Geode brings together psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and therapists to deliver coordinated, team-based care. The platform positions itself as a community-centered practice that makes mental healthcare accessible and affordable by accepting Medicare and most major commercial insurance plans in its local markets.
Geode offers same-week appointments; availability is often within a week or less. Patients can schedule and manage appointments online and use secure messaging for non-urgent communication between sessions.
Headspace at a glance
Headspace started in 2010 as a meditation and mindfulness app and has evolved to include a range of mental health services. The platform combines guided meditations, sleep content, mindfulness resources, coaching, therapy, and psychiatry, often partnering with employers and health plans to expand access.
Headspace operates as a virtual-only service available across all 50 U.S. states, with appointments typically available within two days. Patients can access therapy through live video sessions, mental health coaching via text-based chat, and self-guided resources. The platform accepts insurance, FSA/HSA, and out-of-pocket payments, with most members paying $0–$35 per session with insurance.
Rula at a glance
Rula is a mental health platform that helps people find and schedule therapy and psychiatry through insurance, with care available across all 50 states and Washington, D.C. Founded in 2019, Rula connects patients to a nationwide network of 21,000+ licensed providers and makes it easier to find an in-network match without sorting through confusing coverage details on your own.
Rula offers appointment-based care, including individual, couples, family, child, and teen therapy, plus psychiatry (medication management). Many patients can book an appointment as soon as tomorrow, and Rula verifies insurance and confirms an estimated out-of-pocket cost before the first session. Patients can also filter for what matters most, like specialty and language, across a network that includes 40+ languages and 180+ clinical specialties and methods.
The care you need, when you need it
Learn how Rula can support your mental health journey
Clinical outcomes and how they compare
When choosing a mental healthcare platform, understanding its clinical outcomes and evidence-based treatment approaches helps ensure you're investing in care that delivers measurable results. Both Geode and Headspace track patient progress to demonstrate the effectiveness of their services but show different outcomes.
Geode clinical outcomes By the fourth month of treatment, 78% of Geode patients demonstrated meaningful improvement on PHQ-9 and GAD-7 assessments. Both are standardized screening instruments designed to track depression and anxiety symptoms over time.
Headspace clinical outcomes According to Headspace's reported data, 72% of members show reduced anxiety after completing six weeks of care. Over the same timeframe, 75% of members report measurable improvement in symptoms related to depression.
Rula clinical outcomes
Rula measures success by tracking both symptom reduction and the strength of the patient-provider connection: According to platform data, 93% of patients experience meaningful symptom relief, 94% describe feeling genuinely comfortable with their provider, and 98% connected with a clinician who met their individual needs — outcomes that surpass national averages by more than 10%.
Cost and insurance coverage
Both Geode and Headspace work with insurance to help make care more affordable, though their coverage networks differ. Geode accepts many commercial plans and Medicare options within its service area, while Headspace partners with major insurers across the country and works with some Medicare Advantage and managed Medicaid plans. Learn more about their coverage details below.
Insurance plans accepted
Geode is in-network with most commercial insurance plans and accepts Medicare and Medicare Advantage plans. However, the platform doesn't accept Medicaid.
Headspace partners with major health insurance providers including Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, and Anthem. The platform is also in-network with select Medicare Advantage plans (Part C) and select managed Medicaid care plans, such as AmeriHealth Caritas D.C. and Castell in Utah.
Rula is worth exploring as well. It simplifies using insurance for therapy and psychiatry while providing clear cost estimates upfront, before you schedule your first session. Providers on Rula accept a wide range of major insurance carriers, such as Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, Kaiser Permanente, Optum Behavioral Health, Oscar, and UnitedHealthcare. Coverage also extends to Medicare Advantage, Medicare fee-for-service, and managed Medicaid plans in certain states and through specific insurers.
Out-of-pocket costs (with insurance)
With Geode, your copays and fees will vary depending on your specific insurance plan. Patients should check with their insurance provider or contact the office directly for specific cost information.
With Headspace, most members pay between $0 and $35 per session when using their insurance coverage. The platform allows you to check your eligibility and see your estimated cost per session before booking an appointment, providing clear price transparency around Headspace's cost.
HSA/FSA eligibility
Geode accepts health savings account (HSA) cards and flexible spending account (FSA) cards. Headspace also accepts HSA and FSA cards for direct payment of subscriptions and related medical expenses. However, IRS guidelines often require a diagnosed condition and a medical provider's recommendation, so you may need a Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN) to qualify for HSA/FSA eligibility with either service.
Self-pay pricing
Geode doesn't list self-pay rates on its website, so you'll need to reach out to the office directly to learn about current pricing.
With Headspace, therapy sessions cost $149 without insurance coverage. A separate Headspace meditation app subscription is available for $69.99 per year or $12.99 per month, which includes access to guided meditations and other self-guided resources.
Mental health services offered
The range of services offered by a mental healthcare platform determines whether it can address your specific needs, from traditional talk therapy to advanced treatment options and holistic wellness support.
Treatment approaches offered by Geode
Geode organizes its services into four main treatment categories, with specific options within each. The subcategories include:
Depression and mood
Behavioral and ADHD
Past trauma
Anxiety and panic
Disordered eating
For treatment-resistant conditions, Geode provides advanced interventions:
Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS): A non-invasive treatment option for depression that hasn't responded to other approaches, offered at select locations
Spravato (intranasal ketamine): A prescription nasal spray for treatment-resistant depression, offered at select locations
Medication management and psychiatry services are available through Geode's licensed psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, and physician assistants.
Treatment approaches offered by Headspace
Headspace providers draw from several evidence-based therapeutic methods, including:
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT)
Mindfulness-based stress reduction techniques
Goal-oriented mental health coaching
The platform extends beyond traditional therapy sessions to include text-based coaching (up to three sessions monthly with an app subscription), guided meditation libraries, sleep-focused content, mindfulness practices, and an AI companion designed to provide support between appointments.
Licensed psychiatric practitioners on Headspace can manage medications, though they're unable to prescribe controlled substances.
Rula treatment approaches offered
Rula's network of licensed providers spans more than 180 clinical specialties and therapeutic modalities, giving you access to care tailored to your specific situation, from anxiety and ADHD to autism, trauma and PTSD, OCD, and addiction.
Therapeutic approaches available through Rula include:
Trauma-focused therapy, including EMDR and prolonged exposure
Internal family systems (IFS)) and attachment-based approaches
Couples and family therapies, such as the Gottman Method and emotionally focused therapy (EFT))
Mindfulness-based and somatic therapies
Psychiatric care through Rula is available for patients 13 and older, with medication management included as part of those services.
Inclusivity and specialized care
Finding a provider you can trust and who understands your unique background is essential for effective mental healthcare. Both Geode and Headspace emphasize inclusive care, though they approach it differently. Here's how each platform addresses inclusivity and specialized expertise.
Geode inclusivity and specialization overview
Licensure types: Geode employs a comprehensive team including psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), psychiatric physician assistants, and licensed therapists.
Specializations offered: Geode treats nine specialty areas, including anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, and trauma. The practice also offers specialized child and adolescent services with providers experienced in creating safe spaces for kids and teens.
Languages available: Geode doesn't specify the languages in which its services are available.
Inclusivity factors: Geode maintains an intentional culture of inclusion that affirms diverse sexual orientations, gender identities, races, and ethnicities. The platform is explicitly LGBTQIA+ affirming.
Headspace inclusivity and specialization overview
Licensure types: Headspace employs licensed therapists and nationally board-certified mental health coaches. Psychiatrists are also available for medication management.
Specializations offered: Headspace addresses six primary areas: anxiety, depression, stress, relationships, sleep, and grief.
Languages available: Headspace offers services in English, Spanish, and French, providing some multilingual access for diverse populations.
Inclusivity factors: Headspace emphasizes culturally responsive care, with 54% of its mental health coaches identifying as BIPOC. The platform also offers Headspace for Teens, a free program for U.S. teens ages 13 to 18.
The care you need, when you need it
Learn how Rula can support your mental health journey
Platform availability and access
How quickly you can access care, how easily you can schedule appointments, and whether you can choose between in-person and virtual sessions all impact your ability to get consistent support.
Rula provides care across all 50 states and Washington, D.C., with scheduled appointments available through live video sessions and in-person therapy visits, and availability often as soon as the next day.
How access works with Geode
States served: Geode operates in six states with physical office locations in Georgia, Illinois, Nebraska, North Carolina, Texas, and Wisconsin.
Matching process: Patients contact Geode's intake team for a confidential assessment and are matched with a licensed professional. Appointments are typically available within a week or less.
Session formats: Geode offers both in-person appointments at its physical offices and secure video visits online, giving patients the flexibility to choose their preferred format.
Scheduling: Appointments can be scheduled online, with initial appointments lasting 60 minutes. Regular office hours are Monday to Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
App/portal experience: Geode doesn't have a dedicated mobile app, but patients can schedule appointments and use secure messaging for non-urgent questions through its online portal.
How access works with Headspace
States served: Headspace is available across all 50 U.S. states, providing nationwide access to virtual mental health services.
Matching process: Patients complete intake forms online and are matched with a licensed therapist based on their needs. If the first match isn't a good fit, Headspace supports switching providers.
Session formats: Headspace is a virtual-only platform. Therapy is delivered through live video sessions, while coaching uses text-based chat.
Scheduling: Appointments are typically available within two days. Coaching sessions can be scheduled at flexible times, including evenings and weekends.
App/portal experience: Headspace provides a comprehensive mobile app that serves as the central hub for all services, including therapy, coaching, and self-guided resources.
What each platform does best
Understanding what each platform does best helps you choose based on the factors that matter most to you. Think about whether you prioritize face-to-face appointments and specialized treatment options or if you'd rather have virtual care available anywhere, combined with built-in wellness tools.
Geode excels when you need:
Hybrid care with both in-person and virtual appointment options
Access to advanced treatments like TMS or Spravato for treatment-resistant conditions
Coordinated, team-based care with psychiatrists and therapists working together
Care covered by Medicare or Medicare Advantage plans
Comprehensive psychiatric services, including medication management
Specialized care for children and adolescents with no minimum age restrictions
Headspace excels when you need:
Nationwide virtual access in any of the 50 U.S. states.
Quick appointment availability, typically within two days
Integrated wellness resources, including guided meditations and sleep content
Text-based mental health coaching with flexible scheduling
A mobile app that combines therapy, coaching, and self-guided resources in one place
Multilingual services in English, Spanish, and French
Summary: Is Geode or Headspace right for you?
The right choice depends on your location, treatment needs, and care preferences. Choose Geode if you live in one of its service states and want the option of in-person care. With physical offices, advanced treatments, and a team-based approach, Geode delivers comprehensive psychiatric care for people with traditional health coverage.
Choose Headspace if you need nationwide virtual access and value integrated wellness resources in an all-in-one app. The platform combines therapy and psychiatry with coaching and self-guided content, delivering measurable results through a flexible virtual model.
You could also consider Rula if you want appointment-based therapy and psychiatry through insurance, with care available in all 50 states and Washington, D.C. Rula connects patients with 21,000+ licensed providers across 180+ clinical specialties and methods, offers telehealth via live video and in-person therapy, and typically costs about $15 per session when using insurance.
FAQs
Does Geode or Headspace accept insurance?
Geode accepts Medicare and most commercial insurance plans, making it accessible for people with traditional health coverage. Headspace is in-network with major providers including Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, and Anthem, plus select Medicare Advantage and managed Medicaid plans. Both platforms accept FSA/HSA payments.
How much does Geode cost compared to Headspace?
Geode bills through insurance, with out-of-pocket costs depending on your specific plan, copay, and deductible. Headspace members typically pay $0–$35 per session with in-network insurance, or $149 per session without insurance. Headspace provides upfront cost estimates before booking.
How quickly can you start therapy with Geode or Headspace?
Headspace appointments are typically available within two days of completing intake. Geode's scheduling timeline varies by location and provider availability, with both virtual and in-person options offered across its service states.
Why choose Rula for quality of care?
Rula emphasizes measurable results at scale, with 93% of patients reporting they feel better about their symptoms after care, alongside access to a nationwide network of 21,000+ licensed providers across 180+ clinical specialties and methods. It offers therapy psychiatry (medication management) in all 50 states and Washington, D.C., with virtual video appointments plus in-person therapy options. Many insured patients pay about $15 per session with cost estimates confirmed before the first visit.
Find care with Rula
Choosing between mental health platforms is an important decision — one that can shape how quickly you make progress and how supported you feel along the way. If you're ready to move forward, Rula makes it straightforward to get started. You can verify your insurance in minutes, browse providers who match what you're looking for, and see your estimated cost before your first appointment. Many people can book as soon as tomorrow, so you don't have to wait weeks to begin.
When you're ready, Rula is here to help you find care that works.
Rula Health
Rula’s editorial process
Rula’s editorial team is on a mission to make science-backed mental health insights accessible and practical for every person seeking to better understand or improve mental wellness.
Members of Rula’s clinical leadership team and other expert providers contribute to all published content, offering guidance on themes and insights based on their firsthand experience in the field. Every piece of content is thoroughly reviewed by a clinician before publishing.
