Therapists in South Windsor, CT
![Photo of Tracy Lewis, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f400e9f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Tracy Lewis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Windsor, CT 06074
I am a licensed clinical social worker providing individual, couples, family, and group therapy to adult clients. I work to address challenges such as depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship conflicts, and addiction/recovery. I strive to create a safe environment where clients feel comfortable and can address key issues to bring about healthy transformations.
I am a licensed clinical social worker providing individual, couples, family, and group therapy to adult clients. I work to address challenges such as depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship conflicts, and addiction/recovery. I strive to create a safe environment where clients feel comfortable and can address key issues to bring about healthy transformations.
![Photo of Susan LeClair - Susan LeClair, LMFT, LLC, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/86098409-c27f-457f-a452-ce433f97f3ed/2/320x400.jpeg)
Susan LeClair, LMFT, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
South Windsor, CT 06074
Are you feeling lost; confused or broken? I have 20 years experience working in crisis intervention; depression; anxiety; grief/loss; divorce; gender identity/gay orientation issues; co-parenting; relational problems; domestic violence; trauma; sexual abuse; fertility/adoption; and career/life transition issues. As a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, I have experience working with individuals; couples and families. I am extremely ethical and am non-judgemental. If I do not feel I cannot help in your presenting issue; I will refer you to someone who could better assist you.
Are you feeling lost; confused or broken? I have 20 years experience working in crisis intervention; depression; anxiety; grief/loss; divorce; gender identity/gay orientation issues; co-parenting; relational problems; domestic violence; trauma; sexual abuse; fertility/adoption; and career/life transition issues. As a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, I have experience working with individuals; couples and families. I am extremely ethical and am non-judgemental. If I do not feel I cannot help in your presenting issue; I will refer you to someone who could better assist you.
![Photo of Bruce Paul Pajot, MDiv, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f499c51-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Bruce Paul Pajot
Licensed Professional Counselor, MDiv, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Windsor, CT 06074
I am passionate about helping people achieve joyful and fulfilled lives. I work with adults, couples, and families regarding various mental health concerns including anxiety, depression, and relational struggles. I use an eclectic mixture of therapies including Cognitive Behavioral, Psycho-dynamic, and various relational therapies. Over many years, my work has included over 1000 clients (both individuals and couples) with a multitude of psychological issues. I have also led weekly couples relationship workshops as well as periodic communication seminars around the country. (Married with two adult daughters and five grandchildren).
I am passionate about helping people achieve joyful and fulfilled lives. I work with adults, couples, and families regarding various mental health concerns including anxiety, depression, and relational struggles. I use an eclectic mixture of therapies including Cognitive Behavioral, Psycho-dynamic, and various relational therapies. Over many years, my work has included over 1000 clients (both individuals and couples) with a multitude of psychological issues. I have also led weekly couples relationship workshops as well as periodic communication seminars around the country. (Married with two adult daughters and five grandchildren).
![Photo of Cheryl Plank, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/13c28a25-6504-4971-afb7-82c84eb6b3f2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Cheryl Plank
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Windsor, CT 06074 (Online Only)
Each of us have experienced a point in time where we have been overwhelmed by trauma, problems at home, work or in the community. These problems may be issues including anxiety, depression, domestic violence, sexual assault, work place violence, death of a loved one, co-parenting, anger, divorce, work place stress or substance abuse. These stressors may impact daily life and can become overwhelming and require the need for outside support from a trained, licensed professional in order to work through challenges.
Each of us have experienced a point in time where we have been overwhelmed by trauma, problems at home, work or in the community. These problems may be issues including anxiety, depression, domestic violence, sexual assault, work place violence, death of a loved one, co-parenting, anger, divorce, work place stress or substance abuse. These stressors may impact daily life and can become overwhelming and require the need for outside support from a trained, licensed professional in order to work through challenges.
![Photo of Alysia L Brown, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8d46ff2f-1434-4af7-adb2-398b55e43480/3/320x400.jpeg)
Hi! My name is Alysia Brown and I am a Marriage and Family Therapist. I have spent the majority of my career working with individuals, couples and adults. I have a great deal of experience working with children, adolescents, and young adults with severe psychiatric needs and extensive trauma. I have worked in a variety of settings such as outpatient, residential, and home based work.
Hi! My name is Alysia Brown and I am a Marriage and Family Therapist. I have spent the majority of my career working with individuals, couples and adults. I have a great deal of experience working with children, adolescents, and young adults with severe psychiatric needs and extensive trauma. I have worked in a variety of settings such as outpatient, residential, and home based work.
![Photo of Michelle Sessions, EdS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/67ae1719-666d-4c08-ba62-8e79519ce8c3/2/320x400.png)
Michelle Sessions
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC
Verified Verified
South Windsor, CT 06074
Over the course of my career, I have provided psychotherapy to clients of all ages. I focus on creating a safe space to work on emotional wellness by developing a genuine rapport with my clients. For my younger clients it may be social-emotional development or emotional regulation skills. For my older clients, the complexities of life including anxiety, depression, loss and a variety of other challenges may be the focus. Collaboratively, we will identify your goals and strengths, and I will facilitate a non-judgmental space in which we can work towards positive growth and empowerment.
Over the course of my career, I have provided psychotherapy to clients of all ages. I focus on creating a safe space to work on emotional wellness by developing a genuine rapport with my clients. For my younger clients it may be social-emotional development or emotional regulation skills. For my older clients, the complexities of life including anxiety, depression, loss and a variety of other challenges may be the focus. Collaboratively, we will identify your goals and strengths, and I will facilitate a non-judgmental space in which we can work towards positive growth and empowerment.
![Photo of Lindsey Mascaro, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/511c0f19-cb41-4cde-b680-c870ea27b653/1/320x400.jpeg)
Your story matters! I believe one of the bravest things you can do is begin to understand your own story. Life is too short to let negative thoughts, anxiety and past experiences affect who you are today. You are not alone and I'm hopeful that together we can free you of any emotional pain, develop skills to appreciate your self worth and build healthy relationships to find meaning and purpose in life. You matter to me! Since everyone's story is unique, we will utilize different therapeutic approaches that work best for you. Some common approaches to be considered are CBT, mindfulness, strength based and empowerment.
Your story matters! I believe one of the bravest things you can do is begin to understand your own story. Life is too short to let negative thoughts, anxiety and past experiences affect who you are today. You are not alone and I'm hopeful that together we can free you of any emotional pain, develop skills to appreciate your self worth and build healthy relationships to find meaning and purpose in life. You matter to me! Since everyone's story is unique, we will utilize different therapeutic approaches that work best for you. Some common approaches to be considered are CBT, mindfulness, strength based and empowerment.
![Photo of Kaitlyn Fagan, LCSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d6948d89-4f35-4cd8-a2bf-92036d9a806f/4/320x400.jpeg)
Kaitlyn Fagan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
South Windsor, CT 06074 (Online Only)
Feeling stuck or overwhelmed by life? Need a safe space to work through unresolved trauma? Pregnant or adjusting to parenthood? With 10 years of experience in inpatient, outpatient, and home-based settings I have helped adults with a wide range of mental health concerns. My focus has been on individuals and families with significant psychiatric needs, and my passion lies in helping individuals overcome the impact of trauma/PTSD, peripartum mood and anxiety disorders, and life transitions. I draw from many theoretical backgrounds to tailor treatment to each client. I use CBT, DBT, psychodynamic, and trauma-informed interventions.
Feeling stuck or overwhelmed by life? Need a safe space to work through unresolved trauma? Pregnant or adjusting to parenthood? With 10 years of experience in inpatient, outpatient, and home-based settings I have helped adults with a wide range of mental health concerns. My focus has been on individuals and families with significant psychiatric needs, and my passion lies in helping individuals overcome the impact of trauma/PTSD, peripartum mood and anxiety disorders, and life transitions. I draw from many theoretical backgrounds to tailor treatment to each client. I use CBT, DBT, psychodynamic, and trauma-informed interventions.
![Photo of Brianna M. Blake, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a0470bb-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Brianna M. Blake
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
South Windsor, CT 06074
Not accepting new clients
Not Accepting New Patients- In the treatment of eating disorders, mood disorders, and other common co-occurring issues, I primarily seek to explore and help patients gain insight into the forces driving behaviors that frequently keep them stuck and deprive them of participating in life more fully. Specific strategies to help patients confront and renegotiate their current struggles are also a focus of sessions in addition to relationships, both past and present, as it is believed that one's relationship with food, their view of themselves, and their view of the future is significantly impacted by relationships in their life.
Not Accepting New Patients- In the treatment of eating disorders, mood disorders, and other common co-occurring issues, I primarily seek to explore and help patients gain insight into the forces driving behaviors that frequently keep them stuck and deprive them of participating in life more fully. Specific strategies to help patients confront and renegotiate their current struggles are also a focus of sessions in addition to relationships, both past and present, as it is believed that one's relationship with food, their view of themselves, and their view of the future is significantly impacted by relationships in their life.
![Photo of Leah Bell, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ff6c3dc-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Leah Bell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
South Windsor, CT 06074
Not accepting new clients
With well over 20 years as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in a variety of settings, I bring warmth, experience and expertise into the therapeutic relationship. We tend to come to therapy when we want to make a change or feel conflict in our lives. How we operate no longer works. Something's missing or something feels wrong. This may manifest as anxiety, discomfort or sadness. I believe we all have the capacity to heal, to learn new ways of dealing with our past wounds and present circumstances. Often from trauma stems growth and strength.
With well over 20 years as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in a variety of settings, I bring warmth, experience and expertise into the therapeutic relationship. We tend to come to therapy when we want to make a change or feel conflict in our lives. How we operate no longer works. Something's missing or something feels wrong. This may manifest as anxiety, discomfort or sadness. I believe we all have the capacity to heal, to learn new ways of dealing with our past wounds and present circumstances. Often from trauma stems growth and strength.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Tammy L Van Linter - Central CT Anxiety/OCD Treatment LLC, MSW, LCSW, LADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7e82ec4a-10fa-4a56-908b-f291f8e4f791/2/320x400.jpeg)
Central CT Anxiety/OCD Treatment LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LADC
Verified Verified
Glastonbury, CT 06033
I am passionate about working with Clients who struggle with Anxiety Disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Generalized Anxiety, Panic, Social Phobia, and PTSD. As I am all to well aware of through my own past experiences. I know how debilitating it can be. Anxiety tries to keep you from becoming all that you can be. It is important for me to look at therapy from a holistic approach we will incorporate sound research based theory, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, (ERP) Exposure and Response Prevention therapy..
I am passionate about working with Clients who struggle with Anxiety Disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Generalized Anxiety, Panic, Social Phobia, and PTSD. As I am all to well aware of through my own past experiences. I know how debilitating it can be. Anxiety tries to keep you from becoming all that you can be. It is important for me to look at therapy from a holistic approach we will incorporate sound research based theory, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, (ERP) Exposure and Response Prevention therapy..
![Photo of Sherri Carolino - Grateful Soul Counseling, LLC, LCSW, LADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e8909763-9b76-4c85-a6fa-6e5e9447c912/2/320x400.jpeg)
Grateful Soul Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Hartford, CT 06106 (Online Only)
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I am dedicated to helping teens, families and adults in their path to wellness. I strive to help create a safe environment to build trust, overall peace and self awareness. Therapy and the therapeutic process is a non judgmental safe space to work on whatever you may be going through. I have extensive experience in addressing complex trauma, anxiety and panic, depression, OCD, behavioral and emotional reactivity, substance abuse and addiction, sexual reactivity, parenting and other life transitions.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I am dedicated to helping teens, families and adults in their path to wellness. I strive to help create a safe environment to build trust, overall peace and self awareness. Therapy and the therapeutic process is a non judgmental safe space to work on whatever you may be going through. I have extensive experience in addressing complex trauma, anxiety and panic, depression, OCD, behavioral and emotional reactivity, substance abuse and addiction, sexual reactivity, parenting and other life transitions.
![Photo of Edward Gonzalez - Simple Talks Counseling, LCSW, LICSW, LADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ecc26d26-498d-4c81-b60e-418b8c06d7d5/4/320x400.jpeg)
Simple Talks Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW, LADC
Verified Verified
Manchester, CT 06040
His specialty areas include trauma, anxiety, depression, OCD, grief counseling, anger management, domestic violence, couples therapy.
Welcome! We are so excited that you took the time to drop in, explore our services and how they may suit your needs. It is our hope to assist you with identifying solutions to your presenting issues and promote mental and emotional wellness.
His specialty areas include trauma, anxiety, depression, OCD, grief counseling, anger management, domestic violence, couples therapy.
Welcome! We are so excited that you took the time to drop in, explore our services and how they may suit your needs. It is our hope to assist you with identifying solutions to your presenting issues and promote mental and emotional wellness.
![Photo of Victoria Hill - Wethersfield Wellness, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3400a911-32ec-4735-8d05-9237dcbc7726/1/320x400.jpeg)
Wethersfield Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wethersfield, CT 06109
As an LCSW, I am dedicated to helping adolescents, adults, couples and families to cope with daily challenges and transitions. I strive to help create a greater sense of overall peace, hope and self-awareness. It is my honor to be able to work with clients who are brave enough to show me into their world, so that I can help create and support better coping. I specialize in addressing complex trauma, anxiety and panic, depression, OCD, reactivity, addiction, problem sexual behaviors, and other life transitions. I also have a personal interest in working with the donor-conceived population, not parent expected and adoptees.
As an LCSW, I am dedicated to helping adolescents, adults, couples and families to cope with daily challenges and transitions. I strive to help create a greater sense of overall peace, hope and self-awareness. It is my honor to be able to work with clients who are brave enough to show me into their world, so that I can help create and support better coping. I specialize in addressing complex trauma, anxiety and panic, depression, OCD, reactivity, addiction, problem sexual behaviors, and other life transitions. I also have a personal interest in working with the donor-conceived population, not parent expected and adoptees.
![Photo of Dr. Rachel Carlson, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45052b2c-f393-4559-a57f-41d51bfb1063/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Rachel Carlson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
West Hartford, CT 06119
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Clinical Psychologist who specializes in working with teens, young adults, and adults, particularly around issues of life transitions, identity, values, and meaning. I have expertise in LGBTQ+ issues, depression and anxiety, trauma, OCD, and communication issues. I will never judge you for your darkness and will reflect your light back at you until you see it. I am passionate about helping you understand what is going on inside your brain so you don’t think you are broken. However, I believe you are the expert on your own life and we will work together to figure out what approach to therapy will meet your needs.
I am a Clinical Psychologist who specializes in working with teens, young adults, and adults, particularly around issues of life transitions, identity, values, and meaning. I have expertise in LGBTQ+ issues, depression and anxiety, trauma, OCD, and communication issues. I will never judge you for your darkness and will reflect your light back at you until you see it. I am passionate about helping you understand what is going on inside your brain so you don’t think you are broken. However, I believe you are the expert on your own life and we will work together to figure out what approach to therapy will meet your needs.
![Photo of Nicole Marie Gentili - Feel Connected: Adolescent and Family Therapy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b70c1546-a3f5-4112-aa24-a347e8e6fa86/8/320x400.jpeg)
Feel Connected: Adolescent and Family Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Glastonbury, CT 06033 (Online Only)
Parents, I am here for you! The baby and toddler years might have been exhausting… but now that your child or teenager is older, you’re losing sleep for different reasons. How can parenting be so difficult when you’re trying this hard to get it right? You long to create a strong bond and positive memories with your family, but there is so much contradicting advice out there and your child is presenting you with emotional challenges you weren’t expecting. Perhaps your child's anxiety, mood or behavior is having a huge impact on family life, or maybe you and your partner are struggling to be on the same page. I would love to help!
Parents, I am here for you! The baby and toddler years might have been exhausting… but now that your child or teenager is older, you’re losing sleep for different reasons. How can parenting be so difficult when you’re trying this hard to get it right? You long to create a strong bond and positive memories with your family, but there is so much contradicting advice out there and your child is presenting you with emotional challenges you weren’t expecting. Perhaps your child's anxiety, mood or behavior is having a huge impact on family life, or maybe you and your partner are struggling to be on the same page. I would love to help!
![Photo of Alexandra Sherwood, LPCA, MA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9cc21c36-dc72-446d-9a12-eb2cdb27ac4c/2/320x400.png)
Alexandra Sherwood
Professional Counselor Associate, LPCA, MA
Verified Verified
Manchester, CT 06040
Waitlist for new clients
I’m so glad you’re here. I entered into this field to help others heal; and to be a source of reassurance and support for clients as they journey and navigate through hardships, obstacles and embrace personal growth and progress in their lives. I work with children, teens, adults and families, and I enjoy finding creative ways to engage with clients in sessions to help them find and maintain motivations, to enhance the therapeutic process and improve their own wellness. I utilize a client centered approach, meaning I meet clients where they are at, and work on helping clients to hold themselves accountable for work done in therapy.
I’m so glad you’re here. I entered into this field to help others heal; and to be a source of reassurance and support for clients as they journey and navigate through hardships, obstacles and embrace personal growth and progress in their lives. I work with children, teens, adults and families, and I enjoy finding creative ways to engage with clients in sessions to help them find and maintain motivations, to enhance the therapeutic process and improve their own wellness. I utilize a client centered approach, meaning I meet clients where they are at, and work on helping clients to hold themselves accountable for work done in therapy.
![Photo of Amy C Aliengena, MA, CAGS, LPC, MBA, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5c1f27de-8836-4670-8151-5877360cd38d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Amy C Aliengena
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, CAGS, LPC, MBA
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Windsor Locks, CT 06096
Are you experiencing emotional or psychological pain? Life can sometimes be challenging, finding a therapist shouldn’t be. I will listen to you and help you work through your concerns and navigate this difficult time. I am a licensed professional counselor who has experience in providing counseling to individuals in challenging times.
Are you experiencing emotional or psychological pain? Life can sometimes be challenging, finding a therapist shouldn’t be. I will listen to you and help you work through your concerns and navigate this difficult time. I am a licensed professional counselor who has experience in providing counseling to individuals in challenging times.
![Photo of Myrta I Soto, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b02ae08-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Hi. Hablo Espanol. I speak Spanish. Offering Teletherapy sessions. Welcome to Oasis Bilingual Counseling Services. Whether you are experiencing depression, anxiety, life transitions, gender identity/relationship issues, loss/grief, and/or other life challenges, here at Oasis, you will find a compassionate, supportive, non-judgmental setting where you can speak about what you are going through and together we can create feasible treatment goals that will assist you move forward in your life.
Hi. Hablo Espanol. I speak Spanish. Offering Teletherapy sessions. Welcome to Oasis Bilingual Counseling Services. Whether you are experiencing depression, anxiety, life transitions, gender identity/relationship issues, loss/grief, and/or other life challenges, here at Oasis, you will find a compassionate, supportive, non-judgmental setting where you can speak about what you are going through and together we can create feasible treatment goals that will assist you move forward in your life.
![Photo of Julian Finnegan, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51c48af1-4c3c-4a4c-879d-3c537913385c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Julian Finnegan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glastonbury, CT 06033 (Online Only)
Life comes at us in waves of change. Some are predictable and gentle, while others seem to come out of nowhere and knock us completely off balance. Fears may arise about our future, or past trauma might bubble to the surface of our awareness. Confusion, anxiety and depression are normal responses to shifting insights, losses and transitions in life. Relationships can become challenging to navigate, especially when the waves keep coming at us. I will join you right where you are at, to help you catch your breath and establish stable footing so you can forge a path toward wholeness and wellness.
Life comes at us in waves of change. Some are predictable and gentle, while others seem to come out of nowhere and knock us completely off balance. Fears may arise about our future, or past trauma might bubble to the surface of our awareness. Confusion, anxiety and depression are normal responses to shifting insights, losses and transitions in life. Relationships can become challenging to navigate, especially when the waves keep coming at us. I will join you right where you are at, to help you catch your breath and establish stable footing so you can forge a path toward wholeness and wellness.
See more therapy options for South Windsor
Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Therapists
How long does OCD treatment take?
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is often treated on a weekly or twice-weekly schedule, depending on symptom severity and the client’s preferences. Some clients may start to see a noticeable improvement in symptoms in as little as six weeks, but it’s also possible, especially in more severe cases, for treatment to take several months to a year before significant progress is made.
What happens if OCD is not treated?
Some people with OCD, especially those with mild symptoms, may find that they are able to adapt reasonably well to life with the condition, even if their symptoms never resolve completely. However, many people, particularly those whose symptoms are severe at the outset, find that their obsessions and compulsions grow more intrusive with time, making it harder to maintain relationships, hold down a job, or navigate the world successfully.
Are there medications for OCD?
Medication can be used to treat OCD. The class of drugs most often prescribed are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or SSRIs, which include fluvoxamine (under the brand name Luvox), fluoxetine (Prozac), and sertraline (Zoloft), among others. In cases of treatment-resistant OCD, other classes of medication, such as tricyclic antidepressants or atypical antipsychotics, may be prescribed. Medication is frequently used in conjunction with therapy.
Can OCD come back after treatment?
Yes. Major life transitions, periods of stress, or other factors can cause symptoms to return or, if they were never fully eradicated, to ramp back up in intensity. For some, these relapses are brief and do not require additional treatment; identifying specific triggers and practicing the skills learned in therapy can help speed their course. For others, returning to therapy for a brief period can help address the underlying stress and strengthen coping mechanisms.