How do I connect with a human being?

[#1]

Upwork isn't allowing me to verify my phone number.. preventing me from applying to any jobs/use the site in any meaningful way. When I try to connect with a support agent via the utterly useless AI chatbot, it never allows me, no matter what prompt I use. How do I connect with an agent?

[#2]

Hi Stephen,

I checked your account, and you've successfully submitted a support ticket to our team. Please allow them time to review your ticket and update you directly. One of our agents will assist you further.