Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Therapists in Mocksville, NC

Photo of Dallas E Johnson Jr - Aspen Mental Health Therapy and Consulting, PLLC, MS, LCMHCS, NCC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Aspen Mental Health Therapy and Consulting, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHCS, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mocksville, NC 27028
Aspen is enabling individuals, from all walks of life, to accomplish mental health, wellness, educational, spiritual and career goals. We specialize in helping individuals and families during the tough times. We have extensive training in the treatment of PTSD and trauma associated disorders for adults, adolescents, and children (including pre-school age). In addition to trauma, we specialize in ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Panic, OCD, and chronic childhood behaviors. For more information, or to set up a new client appointment, visit aspenmentalhealth.com and click on "Let's Talk."
Aspen is enabling individuals, from all walks of life, to accomplish mental health, wellness, educational, spiritual and career goals. We specialize in helping individuals and families during the tough times. We have extensive training in the treatment of PTSD and trauma associated disorders for adults, adolescents, and children (including pre-school age). In addition to trauma, we specialize in ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Panic, OCD, and chronic childhood behaviors. For more information, or to set up a new client appointment, visit aspenmentalhealth.com and click on "Let's Talk."
(336) 396-7837 View (336) 396-7837
Photo of Crystal D Anderson, MS, NCC, LCAS-R
Crystal D Anderson
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, NCC, LCAS-R
Verified Verified
Mocksville, NC 27028  (Online Only)
I use approaches that work well for people experiencing mood changes, anxiety/depression, intrusive thoughts, and OCD symptoms.
Be the reflection of your inner peace. There are endless possibilities when we face the unknown. It can and will be scary for anyone, children, teens, and adults, to face the struggles. Crystal D. Anderson is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor who can help you navigate the unknown, face those struggles in a supportive environment and find relief to those symptoms that cause you to feel cloudy.
I use approaches that work well for people experiencing mood changes, anxiety/depression, intrusive thoughts, and OCD symptoms.
Be the reflection of your inner peace. There are endless possibilities when we face the unknown. It can and will be scary for anyone, children, teens, and adults, to face the struggles. Crystal D. Anderson is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor who can help you navigate the unknown, face those struggles in a supportive environment and find relief to those symptoms that cause you to feel cloudy.
(910) 713-1413 View (910) 713-1413
Photo of Candace L Washington, PhD, Psychologist
Candace L Washington
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mocksville, NC 27028
Feeling isolated? Unsure how to manage demands on you? Struggling with decisions? Can't share feelings because you fear being misunderstood? Feeling overwhelmed? I work with adults dealing with issues including excessive worry, role changes, indecision, unhappiness, interpersonal differences to unexpected life challenges. Psychotherapy helps to gain a better understanding of self and others as well as recognize triggers affecting positive growth and change. You never endure this "journey" alone. Together, we explore beliefs, unresolved issues, feelings, and behaviors to develop healthy coping skills and life choices.
Feeling isolated? Unsure how to manage demands on you? Struggling with decisions? Can't share feelings because you fear being misunderstood? Feeling overwhelmed? I work with adults dealing with issues including excessive worry, role changes, indecision, unhappiness, interpersonal differences to unexpected life challenges. Psychotherapy helps to gain a better understanding of self and others as well as recognize triggers affecting positive growth and change. You never endure this "journey" alone. Together, we explore beliefs, unresolved issues, feelings, and behaviors to develop healthy coping skills and life choices.
(336) 606-1569 View (336) 606-1569
Photo of Lisa Carr, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Carr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mocksville, NC 27028
I specialize in trauma treatment, helping clients process and resolve the overwhelming emotions associated with threatening and devaluing experiences; remembered or not. Clients may feel uncomfortable or disconnected from their own body; be stuck in unhelpful or negative patterns; and struggle within relationships. Everyone's story is different, as is their path to resolution. I work to create a safe and supportive environment within which clients may fully express and be themselves. I listen first to help clients connect to their own inner wisdom and find their unique path to healing.
I specialize in trauma treatment, helping clients process and resolve the overwhelming emotions associated with threatening and devaluing experiences; remembered or not. Clients may feel uncomfortable or disconnected from their own body; be stuck in unhelpful or negative patterns; and struggle within relationships. Everyone's story is different, as is their path to resolution. I work to create a safe and supportive environment within which clients may fully express and be themselves. I listen first to help clients connect to their own inner wisdom and find their unique path to healing.
(336) 390-3369 View (336) 390-3369
Photo of Daniel Cooke - GARD Therapeutic Services , LCMHC-A, LCAS-A, CTP, Counselor
GARD Therapeutic Services
Counselor, LCMHC-A, LCAS-A, CTP
Verified Verified
Mocksville, NC 27028  (Online Only)
I strive to meet my clients where they are in their life journey. I have a passion to help guide and encourage them to reach their ultimate goals. I work with clients facing various challenges including but not limited to substance abuse, depression, anxiety, and trauma. I am a US Navy Veteran, so working with other Veterans is a passion of mine and something I am grateful to be able to do. Building motivation, managing depressive or anxious symptoms, setting life goals, developing boundaries, overcoming trauma or addiction and more, if that is what you desire, I can help.
I strive to meet my clients where they are in their life journey. I have a passion to help guide and encourage them to reach their ultimate goals. I work with clients facing various challenges including but not limited to substance abuse, depression, anxiety, and trauma. I am a US Navy Veteran, so working with other Veterans is a passion of mine and something I am grateful to be able to do. Building motivation, managing depressive or anxious symptoms, setting life goals, developing boundaries, overcoming trauma or addiction and more, if that is what you desire, I can help.
(980) 246-4172 View (980) 246-4172

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Laura Pond - Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Cary, Counselor
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Cary
Counselor
Verified Verified
Advance, NC 27006
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
(919) 514-1090 View (919) 514-1090
Photo of J Dale Hancock, PhD, MA, BS, Pastoral Counselor
J Dale Hancock
Pastoral Counselor, PhD, MA, BS
Verified Verified
Advance, NC 27006
Meet Dr. Hancock We all need help sometimes. Mechanics, accountants, plumbers, medical professionals and many others are needed in our lives. Think of me as your family issues specialist. One of my greatest joys is to help people reach their goals. I hope you will feel as loved and well taken care of as my current and past clients do. I have led over 15,000 hours of counseling so far in my career. And having led approximately 500 parenting seminars and numerous marriage retreats the call on my life is clearly to help families be strong, loving, and successful.
Meet Dr. Hancock We all need help sometimes. Mechanics, accountants, plumbers, medical professionals and many others are needed in our lives. Think of me as your family issues specialist. One of my greatest joys is to help people reach their goals. I hope you will feel as loved and well taken care of as my current and past clients do. I have led over 15,000 hours of counseling so far in my career. And having led approximately 500 parenting seminars and numerous marriage retreats the call on my life is clearly to help families be strong, loving, and successful.
(336) 804-8691 View (336) 804-8691
Photo of Nina Scherer, Counselor
Nina Scherer
Counselor
Verified Verified
Advance, NC 27006
Let me help you create the life you want to have. We will start working from where you are and support you building a life worth living. I believe that a strong therapeutic relationship is the foundation for positive change. I passionately believe in treating clients with the utmost dignity and respect. I have had the privilege of working with amazing clients from diverse backgrounds, different kinds of diagnoses, and in all phases of life.
Let me help you create the life you want to have. We will start working from where you are and support you building a life worth living. I believe that a strong therapeutic relationship is the foundation for positive change. I passionately believe in treating clients with the utmost dignity and respect. I have had the privilege of working with amazing clients from diverse backgrounds, different kinds of diagnoses, and in all phases of life.
(336) 560-9481 View (336) 560-9481
Photo of Stephanie Walker Crowe, MS, LPC, NBCC, ACS, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stephanie Walker Crowe
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NBCC, ACS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Advance, NC 27006  (Online Only)
Passion and empathy combine to allow me to help many incredible people affirm their strengths and overcome obstacles. Developing a genuine rapport with the clients served is also essential to their success. A firm believer that we are all capable of amazing feats, I feel strongly that, at times, we just need help to gain clarity. Along with educational and practical experience, the realization that each client has an individual perspective and distinct set of circumstances enables the facilitation of many concerns ranging from everyday life stressors, to depression, anxiety, and many other mental health and behavioral concerns.
Passion and empathy combine to allow me to help many incredible people affirm their strengths and overcome obstacles. Developing a genuine rapport with the clients served is also essential to their success. A firm believer that we are all capable of amazing feats, I feel strongly that, at times, we just need help to gain clarity. Along with educational and practical experience, the realization that each client has an individual perspective and distinct set of circumstances enables the facilitation of many concerns ranging from everyday life stressors, to depression, anxiety, and many other mental health and behavioral concerns.
(703) 997-8546 View (703) 997-8546
Clint Lee Stiles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
Advance, NC 27006
Hi! I’m Clint, a cisgender LGBTQ+ therapist. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist in North Carolina, and I earned my Master of Social Work degree from the University of Pennsylvania in 2017. I have worked in both inpatient and outpatient settings at community clinics and hospital systems in Winston-Salem, NC. I make it my mission to partner with individuals and families who are struggling with substance use and mental health issues by offering a safe, supportive, empathetic, and nonjudgmental therapeutic environment.
Hi! I’m Clint, a cisgender LGBTQ+ therapist. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist in North Carolina, and I earned my Master of Social Work degree from the University of Pennsylvania in 2017. I have worked in both inpatient and outpatient settings at community clinics and hospital systems in Winston-Salem, NC. I make it my mission to partner with individuals and families who are struggling with substance use and mental health issues by offering a safe, supportive, empathetic, and nonjudgmental therapeutic environment.
(336) 753-5703 View (336) 753-5703
Photo of Valencia Sandersdavis - Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Chapel Hill
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Chapel Hill
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor
Verified Verified
Advance, NC 27006
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
(919) 373-6068 View (919) 373-6068
Photo of Chantal D Hayes - Banyan Tree Counseling & Wellness, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Banyan Tree Counseling & Wellness
MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Advance, NC 27006
Our work is dedicated to helping ALL people develop healthy, satisfying, productive, and meaningful lives. Though it can be difficult to make the decision to begin therapy, we have found that those who have sought help and take responsibility for their emotional heath and relationships have achieved remarkable results. People come to us for a variety of reasons: they may be in transition, experiencing work stress, grieving a loss, struggling with religious or family ideals which no longer suit them, a new parent experiencing anxiety. Some have begun to feel daily life is stagnant, seeking more direction and purpose in their lives.
Our work is dedicated to helping ALL people develop healthy, satisfying, productive, and meaningful lives. Though it can be difficult to make the decision to begin therapy, we have found that those who have sought help and take responsibility for their emotional heath and relationships have achieved remarkable results. People come to us for a variety of reasons: they may be in transition, experiencing work stress, grieving a loss, struggling with religious or family ideals which no longer suit them, a new parent experiencing anxiety. Some have begun to feel daily life is stagnant, seeking more direction and purpose in their lives.
(336) 750-6824 View (336) 750-6824
Photo of Jeanine D. Spear, LCMHC, LMFT, LPC
Jeanine D. Spear
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
Clemmons, NC 27012  (Online Only)
I am licensed in California, and in North Carolina. I specialize in depression, anxiety, Narcissistic abuse, Spiritual abuse, Church abuse, and Shunning. All DSM disorders. I am also trained in trauma, domestic violence. I recognize that crucial life transitions and the emotional upheaval associated within relationships can have a profound impact on one's health and well-being. Book an appointment today -
I am licensed in California, and in North Carolina. I specialize in depression, anxiety, Narcissistic abuse, Spiritual abuse, Church abuse, and Shunning. All DSM disorders. I am also trained in trauma, domestic violence. I recognize that crucial life transitions and the emotional upheaval associated within relationships can have a profound impact on one's health and well-being. Book an appointment today -
(336) 568-0823 View (336) 568-0823
Photo of Rebecca Lowry, MA, LCMHC, NCC, BCC, NBC-HWC
Rebecca Lowry
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC, BCC, NBC-HWC
Verified Verified
Advance, NC 27006
Not accepting new clients
Please Note: I am not accepting new clients at this time. Are you facing challenges? Are you ready to make some significant changes in your life? I would be honored to come alongside you as you explore your concerns and consider your options. I believe that you are fearfully and wonderfully made and that you have an inner strength that will become evident as we journey together. You have a story that is unique and I want to hear it. My wish for you is that you will achieve an optimal level of wellness in all areas of your life - emotionally, physically and spiritually.
Please Note: I am not accepting new clients at this time. Are you facing challenges? Are you ready to make some significant changes in your life? I would be honored to come alongside you as you explore your concerns and consider your options. I believe that you are fearfully and wonderfully made and that you have an inner strength that will become evident as we journey together. You have a story that is unique and I want to hear it. My wish for you is that you will achieve an optimal level of wellness in all areas of your life - emotionally, physically and spiritually.
(336) 939-6929 View (336) 939-6929
Photo of Elizabeth Brunson, MDiv, MS/EdS, LCMHC, NCC, EMDRI
Elizabeth Brunson
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MDiv, MS/EdS, LCMHC, NCC, EMDRI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Advance, NC 27006
Not accepting new clients
A warm, supportive therapist, I collaborate with you to utilize your own resources and develop skills needed to change your life and relationships. Applying emotionally focused therapy to restore a partner/family relationship, cognitive behavioral +mind/body approaches to change thinking/improve your mood, or using EMDR or Brainspotting to resolve trauma and its effects, we discover together ways to MEND your mind, body and spirit.
A warm, supportive therapist, I collaborate with you to utilize your own resources and develop skills needed to change your life and relationships. Applying emotionally focused therapy to restore a partner/family relationship, cognitive behavioral +mind/body approaches to change thinking/improve your mood, or using EMDR or Brainspotting to resolve trauma and its effects, we discover together ways to MEND your mind, body and spirit.
(919) 648-0547 View (919) 648-0547

Online Therapists

Photo of Steven Clemons Jr, MAMFC, LCMHC, LPC
Steven Clemons Jr
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MAMFC, LCMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28226
Life is unpredictable and often takes unexpected twists and turns. I strive to create a safe and warm environment in order to help you through life challenges, such as life-transitions, anxiety, emetophobia, depression, anger, low self-image, spiritual concerns, grief and loss, OCD, ADD/ADHD, and trauma. I utilize compassion, experience, and straightforwardness, working in collaboration with your willingness and motivation to change in a dynamic combination. I enjoy integrating theology and spirituality into counseling as desired by clients. Clients working with me are ready for healing, growth, and change that is long-term.
Life is unpredictable and often takes unexpected twists and turns. I strive to create a safe and warm environment in order to help you through life challenges, such as life-transitions, anxiety, emetophobia, depression, anger, low self-image, spiritual concerns, grief and loss, OCD, ADD/ADHD, and trauma. I utilize compassion, experience, and straightforwardness, working in collaboration with your willingness and motivation to change in a dynamic combination. I enjoy integrating theology and spirituality into counseling as desired by clients. Clients working with me are ready for healing, growth, and change that is long-term.
(704) 802-1765 x1114 View (704) 802-1765 x1114
Photo of Mary Jo Ayllon, MAC, LPC, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mary Jo Ayllon
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAC, LPC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Lexington, NC 27295  (Online Only)
We all face struggles and feel stuck sometimes, not knowing how to move forward. You are not alone, and you don't have to face these things alone. I have approximately 10 years of experience working with a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, stress, family problems, OCD, and trauma. I am also a parent and a pastor's wife, and I have experience working with parenting struggles, spiritual concerns, and church problems. My therapy style is meant to create a safe space that is warm, comfortable, and motivating. I value your trust and want you to feel comfortable being open about your goals for therapy.
We all face struggles and feel stuck sometimes, not knowing how to move forward. You are not alone, and you don't have to face these things alone. I have approximately 10 years of experience working with a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, stress, family problems, OCD, and trauma. I am also a parent and a pastor's wife, and I have experience working with parenting struggles, spiritual concerns, and church problems. My therapy style is meant to create a safe space that is warm, comfortable, and motivating. I value your trust and want you to feel comfortable being open about your goals for therapy.
(336) 770-2356 View (336) 770-2356
Photo of Renee Ridolfi, LCSW, MSW, MEd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Renee Ridolfi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, MEd
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27707
I see pre-teens, teens, and young adults (ages 10-30) who struggle with anxiety, OCD, and relational trauma.
Many of my clients come to me feeling like anxious thoughts have them feeling run down, burned out, and out of control. Some clients have strained relationships with their primary caregiver(s) and struggle with feeling a sense of purpose and value in their lives. Others are coming to see me because their parent or caregiver is searching for ways to support them through the challenges of adolescence, and they stumbled upon my page.
I see pre-teens, teens, and young adults (ages 10-30) who struggle with anxiety, OCD, and relational trauma.
Many of my clients come to me feeling like anxious thoughts have them feeling run down, burned out, and out of control. Some clients have strained relationships with their primary caregiver(s) and struggle with feeling a sense of purpose and value in their lives. Others are coming to see me because their parent or caregiver is searching for ways to support them through the challenges of adolescence, and they stumbled upon my page.
(866) 619-9231 View (866) 619-9231
Photo of Karla Townsend - Karla Townsend -Counseling Services, LCMHCS, , Licensed Professional Counselor
Karla Townsend -Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27401
I provide counseling to adults, teens, children, and families who are warmly welcomed and active participants in therapy at my office. Counseling at this office offers creative avenues for self expression as well as more formal assessments for treatment planning. Acceptance Therapy, including Trauma Focused ACT, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy/CBT are integral to my counseling approach. In addition, I have a specific expertise in the treatment of Eating Disorders, OCD and as an ADHD-CCSP Certified Clinical Services Provider. I am licensed to provide counseling services in North Carolina, Indiana and Missouri.
I provide counseling to adults, teens, children, and families who are warmly welcomed and active participants in therapy at my office. Counseling at this office offers creative avenues for self expression as well as more formal assessments for treatment planning. Acceptance Therapy, including Trauma Focused ACT, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy/CBT are integral to my counseling approach. In addition, I have a specific expertise in the treatment of Eating Disorders, OCD and as an ADHD-CCSP Certified Clinical Services Provider. I am licensed to provide counseling services in North Carolina, Indiana and Missouri.
(336) 281-6636 View (336) 281-6636
Photo of Hollins Cuttino, MA, LCMHCA, Counselor
Hollins Cuttino
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mooresville, NC 28115
I have experience working with a broad range of presenting problems including grief, anxiety, OCD, trauma, emotion regulation issues, childhood emotional and behavioral concerns, parenting, relationship concerns, and life transitions.
Grief and struggle are unavoidable parts of being human, but no one should ever have to bear those burdens alone. Since you're reading this, I assume that you are bravely considering inviting someone in. I believe that the relationship we form as therapist and client can be a safe space for you to cultivate healing and restoration that will spread to other areas in your life. I consider it a great privilege to hold your story with tenderness, safety, and grace as you hold the tension between compassion and truth. You are so much more resilient than you know!
I have experience working with a broad range of presenting problems including grief, anxiety, OCD, trauma, emotion regulation issues, childhood emotional and behavioral concerns, parenting, relationship concerns, and life transitions.
Grief and struggle are unavoidable parts of being human, but no one should ever have to bear those burdens alone. Since you're reading this, I assume that you are bravely considering inviting someone in. I believe that the relationship we form as therapist and client can be a safe space for you to cultivate healing and restoration that will spread to other areas in your life. I consider it a great privilege to hold your story with tenderness, safety, and grace as you hold the tension between compassion and truth. You are so much more resilient than you know!
(704) 389-9251 View (704) 389-9251

See more therapy options for Mocksville

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.