Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Therapists in Mansfield, OH

Photo of Dennis A. Marikis, PhD, Psychologist
Dennis A. Marikis
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Mansfield, OH 44907
I have a large staff with expertise in a great variety of concerns with coverage for most insurance claims. I personally want to help people who are highly motivated and can benefit from coaching and open to alternative interventions such as my expertise in home based neurotherapy. I work with busy executives and professional athletes who desire peak performance or need to focus on roadblocks to success. My expertise is as a motivator and mentor for success.
I have a large staff with expertise in a great variety of concerns with coverage for most insurance claims. I personally want to help people who are highly motivated and can benefit from coaching and open to alternative interventions such as my expertise in home based neurotherapy. I work with busy executives and professional athletes who desire peak performance or need to focus on roadblocks to success. My expertise is as a motivator and mentor for success.
(419) 333-1101 View (419) 333-1101
Photo of Mark Googins, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mark Googins
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Mansfield, OH 44902
You are at a moment in your story where you might be having a hard time. I want to extend my hand to help you navigate this journey. My work focuses on helping you develop new behaviors, habits, and mindsets in areas you may be struggling and creating new outcomes. I believe in partnering with you on this journey to reach your goals. I have a diverse history and have worked with teens, adults, and couples with various clinical approaches to therapy. I have also has worked with trauma victims all over the world. This brings to you a Christian counselor who can integrate your faith into your sessions as part of your healing.
You are at a moment in your story where you might be having a hard time. I want to extend my hand to help you navigate this journey. My work focuses on helping you develop new behaviors, habits, and mindsets in areas you may be struggling and creating new outcomes. I believe in partnering with you on this journey to reach your goals. I have a diverse history and have worked with teens, adults, and couples with various clinical approaches to therapy. I have also has worked with trauma victims all over the world. This brings to you a Christian counselor who can integrate your faith into your sessions as part of your healing.
(419) 963-3244 View (419) 963-3244
Photo of Vickie L Jarvis, MA, PCC, SUPV, Counselor
Vickie L Jarvis
Counselor, MA, PCC, SUPV
Verified Verified
Mansfield, OH 44907
I would like to welcome you to Victory Counseling Center. My hope is that you can feel victorious in the process of healing from deep wounds, broken relationships, or find relief from the stress of daily living and from the disappointments that losses in life can bring. I want you to feel safe and supported, knowing that my office provides confidentiality and professionalism. I have a masters' degree from the seminary in counseling, but also a Professional Clinical Counseling license from the state of Ohio. Therefore, I believe in treating the whole person. I am looking forward to meeting you.
I would like to welcome you to Victory Counseling Center. My hope is that you can feel victorious in the process of healing from deep wounds, broken relationships, or find relief from the stress of daily living and from the disappointments that losses in life can bring. I want you to feel safe and supported, knowing that my office provides confidentiality and professionalism. I have a masters' degree from the seminary in counseling, but also a Professional Clinical Counseling license from the state of Ohio. Therefore, I believe in treating the whole person. I am looking forward to meeting you.
(419) 746-4361 View (419) 746-4361
Photo of Branden Edward Heineman, LPC, LCDC II, Licensed Professional Counselor
Branden Edward Heineman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC II
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mansfield, OH 44901  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with adults with trauma especially childhood trauma. I have experience working with addiction, codependency, eating disorders, adult children of alcoholics and those that would like to have better control of their feelings. My clients are able to learn how put the past in the past and grow without the past continuing to haunt them.
I specialize in working with adults with trauma especially childhood trauma. I have experience working with addiction, codependency, eating disorders, adult children of alcoholics and those that would like to have better control of their feelings. My clients are able to learn how put the past in the past and grow without the past continuing to haunt them.
(513) 880-8393 View (513) 880-8393
Photo of Faith Walters, LSW, CTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Faith Walters
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, CTP
Verified Verified
Mansfield, OH 44901  (Online Only)
I am here to walk beside you in your current life situations by giving you a safe space, free of judgment and criticism. Life can be challenging and unpredictable. Whether you are struggling with relationships, divorce, addiction, codependency, or suffer with severe and persistent mental health struggles, I am here to help. Providing TELEHEALTH services only at this time (phone/video).
I am here to walk beside you in your current life situations by giving you a safe space, free of judgment and criticism. Life can be challenging and unpredictable. Whether you are struggling with relationships, divorce, addiction, codependency, or suffer with severe and persistent mental health struggles, I am here to help. Providing TELEHEALTH services only at this time (phone/video).
(419) 556-6404 View (419) 556-6404
Photo of Branden Heineman - Calvary Behavioral Health and Counseling , LPCC-CS, Counselor
Calvary Behavioral Health and Counseling
Counselor, LPCC-CS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mansfield, OH 44901  (Online Only)
Welcome to Calvary Behavioral Health, where healing meets faith. At our practice, we offer a unique approach to therapy that integrates Christian principles with evidence-based techniques to provide holistic care for individuals seeking mental and emotional well-being. Whether you're a devout Christian seeking therapy that aligns with your faith or someone from any background looking for compassionate support, we welcome you with open arms.
Welcome to Calvary Behavioral Health, where healing meets faith. At our practice, we offer a unique approach to therapy that integrates Christian principles with evidence-based techniques to provide holistic care for individuals seeking mental and emotional well-being. Whether you're a devout Christian seeking therapy that aligns with your faith or someone from any background looking for compassionate support, we welcome you with open arms.
(513) 270-2871 View (513) 270-2871
Photo of Gary Russell, MA, LPCC-S, LICDC, CRC, Counselor
Gary Russell
Counselor, MA, LPCC-S, LICDC, CRC
Verified Verified
Mansfield, OH 44906
Compassionate care for different walks of life. I understand that each person's journey is unique, and their struggles, challenges, and goals are deeply personal. My commitment is to offer tailored counseling and support that respects and honors these differences. Adults, Youth, Individuals, Couples, Family, LGBTQ+, People with disabilities, Vocational Counseling, Rehabilitation Counseling, Mental Health, Anxiety, Depression, PTSD/Trauma, Support for Medication Assisted Treatment, Religious Abuse, ADHD, Anger Management, Substance Use, Adjustment to Disability, Cultural Counseling if New or Returning to the US
Compassionate care for different walks of life. I understand that each person's journey is unique, and their struggles, challenges, and goals are deeply personal. My commitment is to offer tailored counseling and support that respects and honors these differences. Adults, Youth, Individuals, Couples, Family, LGBTQ+, People with disabilities, Vocational Counseling, Rehabilitation Counseling, Mental Health, Anxiety, Depression, PTSD/Trauma, Support for Medication Assisted Treatment, Religious Abuse, ADHD, Anger Management, Substance Use, Adjustment to Disability, Cultural Counseling if New or Returning to the US
(419) 757-8587 View (419) 757-8587

Online Therapists

Photo of Makayla Gerhardt - Makayla Gerhardt - NOCD, LMHC, LPCC, Counselor
Makayla Gerhardt - NOCD
Counselor, LMHC, LPCC
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43220  (Online Only)
As a therapist, my first priority is to build trust. I understand that your thoughts might be distressing, and you can tell me anything without fear of judgment. I will meet you where you are, treating you as the unique individual you are. At NOCD, my team and I specialize in providing evidence-based treatment for OCD. Our deep understanding of its nuances enables us to properly diagnose and treat it. We have received training in Exposure Response and Prevention Therapy (ERP)—the gold standard treatment for OCD. When you start with NOCD, you’ll either work with me or be paired with one of my colleagues, based on your preferences.
As a therapist, my first priority is to build trust. I understand that your thoughts might be distressing, and you can tell me anything without fear of judgment. I will meet you where you are, treating you as the unique individual you are. At NOCD, my team and I specialize in providing evidence-based treatment for OCD. Our deep understanding of its nuances enables us to properly diagnose and treat it. We have received training in Exposure Response and Prevention Therapy (ERP)—the gold standard treatment for OCD. When you start with NOCD, you’ll either work with me or be paired with one of my colleagues, based on your preferences.
(929) 415-8543 View (929) 415-8543
Photo of Terron Gaiter - Terron Gaiter - NOCD, MSW, LCSW, LISW-S, LICDC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Terron Gaiter - NOCD
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LISW-S, LICDC
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43220  (Online Only)
I've always had a knack for helping people behind the scenes. I continued my education to become a therapist because I realized that I had a gift for empathizing and communicating with others in ways that are helpful while obtaining positive outcomes. At NOCD, my team and I provide effective specialized treatment for OCD and related conditions, such as BFRBs (including skin-picking, nail-biting, and hair-pulling). Our understanding of these conditions enables us to treat them properly. We have training in evidence-based treatments, including Exposure Response and Prevention (ERP) therapy—the gold standard treatment for OCD.
I've always had a knack for helping people behind the scenes. I continued my education to become a therapist because I realized that I had a gift for empathizing and communicating with others in ways that are helpful while obtaining positive outcomes. At NOCD, my team and I provide effective specialized treatment for OCD and related conditions, such as BFRBs (including skin-picking, nail-biting, and hair-pulling). Our understanding of these conditions enables us to treat them properly. We have training in evidence-based treatments, including Exposure Response and Prevention (ERP) therapy—the gold standard treatment for OCD.
(207) 371-6183 View (207) 371-6183
Photo of Jennifer Vick - Jennifer Vick - NOCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Vick - NOCD
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43220  (Online Only)
OCD is highly treatable. If you're struggling with OCD, you don't have to do it alone. Getting started is the hardest part, but by leaning into the process, you can accomplish things you've only imagined. As a therapist, I'm collaborative: I’m here with you on the journey, but you are in control. I can offer warmth and support when needed, and I'll challenge you when necessary. At NOCD, my team and I provide personalized and effective specialized treatment for OCD and related conditions, such as BFRBs (including skin-picking, nail-biting, and hair-pulling). Our understanding of these conditions enables us to treat them properly.
OCD is highly treatable. If you're struggling with OCD, you don't have to do it alone. Getting started is the hardest part, but by leaning into the process, you can accomplish things you've only imagined. As a therapist, I'm collaborative: I’m here with you on the journey, but you are in control. I can offer warmth and support when needed, and I'll challenge you when necessary. At NOCD, my team and I provide personalized and effective specialized treatment for OCD and related conditions, such as BFRBs (including skin-picking, nail-biting, and hair-pulling). Our understanding of these conditions enables us to treat them properly.
(929) 209-7324 View (929) 209-7324
Photo of Cori Brittain - Cori Brittain - NOCD, LPCC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cori Brittain - NOCD
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43220  (Online Only)
We've received intensive training in Exposure Response and Prevention Therapy (ERP)—the gold standard for OCD treatment.
As a therapist, I am non-judgmental and collaborative. We’ll start where you are and tailor our sessions to your needs. Coming from a family of social workers, therapists, and teachers, I've always been drawn to the helping professions. Seeing people close to me struggle with mental health led me to this career. I find it incredibly rewarding to help people overcome challenges and make progress. At NOCD, my team and I specialize in providing evidence-based treatment for OCD. Our deep understanding of the condition enables us to properly diagnose and treat it effectively.
We've received intensive training in Exposure Response and Prevention Therapy (ERP)—the gold standard for OCD treatment.
As a therapist, I am non-judgmental and collaborative. We’ll start where you are and tailor our sessions to your needs. Coming from a family of social workers, therapists, and teachers, I've always been drawn to the helping professions. Seeing people close to me struggle with mental health led me to this career. I find it incredibly rewarding to help people overcome challenges and make progress. At NOCD, my team and I specialize in providing evidence-based treatment for OCD. Our deep understanding of the condition enables us to properly diagnose and treat it effectively.
(616) 439-6749 View (616) 439-6749
Photo of Kara Lash - NOCD - Therapists for OCD, LPCC, Counselor
NOCD - Therapists for OCD
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43220
Imagine what life would be like if you weren't bothered by OCD. NOCD is here to help you regain peace of mind. NOCD is a digital health company that’s focused on treating people with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. Inside the NOCD Mobile app, people can access one of NOCD’s licensed mental health therapists with specialty training in OCD. When their therapist isn’t available, NOCD members can access support communities and therapeutic tools - so that they are never alone. NOCD’s protocol has been proven to reduce OCD severity by 40% in 8 weeks.
Imagine what life would be like if you weren't bothered by OCD. NOCD is here to help you regain peace of mind. NOCD is a digital health company that’s focused on treating people with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. Inside the NOCD Mobile app, people can access one of NOCD’s licensed mental health therapists with specialty training in OCD. When their therapist isn’t available, NOCD members can access support communities and therapeutic tools - so that they are never alone. NOCD’s protocol has been proven to reduce OCD severity by 40% in 8 weeks.
(312) 766-6780 View (312) 766-6780
Photo of Erin Bannon, PhD, Psychologist
Erin Bannon
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toledo, OH 43615
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in the treatment of anxiety disorders & relationship issues in adults. I collaborate with my clients to determine a treatment plan tailored to meet their specific needs and goals related to their OCD, PTSD, trauma, panic attacks, social anxiety, health anxiety, phobias, generalized anxiety, depression, or relationship issues. I use a wide variety of evidence based therapeutic approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness Based Interventions, & Exposure and Response Prevention to help my clients get to the root of their issues and develop the tools to take control of their lives.
I specialize in the treatment of anxiety disorders & relationship issues in adults. I collaborate with my clients to determine a treatment plan tailored to meet their specific needs and goals related to their OCD, PTSD, trauma, panic attacks, social anxiety, health anxiety, phobias, generalized anxiety, depression, or relationship issues. I use a wide variety of evidence based therapeutic approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness Based Interventions, & Exposure and Response Prevention to help my clients get to the root of their issues and develop the tools to take control of their lives.
(567) 384-3921 View (567) 384-3921
Photo of Katherine Moss - Katherine Moss, LISW, LISW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katherine Moss, LISW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bexley, OH 43209
I provide empirically-supported psychotherapy for children, adolescents, and adults. My work is rooted in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with an emphasis on mindfulness and self-compassion. My areas of specialization include anxiety disorders, with particular emphasis on OCD, and parenting management, particularly for children with anxiety and behavioral dysregulation.
I provide empirically-supported psychotherapy for children, adolescents, and adults. My work is rooted in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with an emphasis on mindfulness and self-compassion. My areas of specialization include anxiety disorders, with particular emphasis on OCD, and parenting management, particularly for children with anxiety and behavioral dysregulation.
(614) 954-7077 View (614) 954-7077
Photo of Angeline Cirino, MSW, LSW, CDCA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angeline Cirino
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW, CDCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westlake, OH 44145
I provide therapy to address the following concerns: anxiety, depression, trauma, life adjustments, substance use, phobias, and OCD.
I am passionate about working with young adults as they navigate life’s changes and how it impacts mental health. My goal is to walk with you through life’s challenges as I provide a space to hear your story without judgment. I believe in supporting your voice and choice while drawing from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Prolonged Exposure, and Exposure and Response Prevention.
I provide therapy to address the following concerns: anxiety, depression, trauma, life adjustments, substance use, phobias, and OCD.
I am passionate about working with young adults as they navigate life’s changes and how it impacts mental health. My goal is to walk with you through life’s challenges as I provide a space to hear your story without judgment. I believe in supporting your voice and choice while drawing from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Prolonged Exposure, and Exposure and Response Prevention.
(440) 294-5630 View (440) 294-5630
Photo of Alyson Phelan, MA, Psychological Associate
Alyson Phelan
Psychological Associate, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mentor, OH 44060  (Online Only)
I have worked with mood disorders including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, panic disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, and eating disorders at every level of care including Inpatient, Partial Hospitalization, Intensive Outpatient, and Individual treatment modalities.
I work with both adolescents and adults using a compassionate and caring approach that includes skills based training for practical outcomes based on their values and goals. Using a collaborative approach, we will work to solve problems using skills and move through challenges in the most effective way possible. I use both person-centered and motivational interviewing styles with an emphasis in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy to assist patients in staying present in the moment while preparing to move forward. I accept patients where they are now and work with them to learn about their diagnosis and move ahead in their lives.
I have worked with mood disorders including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, panic disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, and eating disorders at every level of care including Inpatient, Partial Hospitalization, Intensive Outpatient, and Individual treatment modalities.
I work with both adolescents and adults using a compassionate and caring approach that includes skills based training for practical outcomes based on their values and goals. Using a collaborative approach, we will work to solve problems using skills and move through challenges in the most effective way possible. I use both person-centered and motivational interviewing styles with an emphasis in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy to assist patients in staying present in the moment while preparing to move forward. I accept patients where they are now and work with them to learn about their diagnosis and move ahead in their lives.
(440) 332-4196 View (440) 332-4196
Photo of Lindsay Feingold, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lindsay Feingold
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beachwood, OH 44122
A therapeutic relationship based on safety and trust is essential in affecting change. I'm a Licensed Independent Social Worker with twenty five years of experience practicing psychotherapy with adolescents and adults. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, grief and loss, and help to address life challenges, transitions, feelings of isolation and fear about the future. Additionally, I work with parents to assist and guide in the ever-challenging work of raising a teenager.
A therapeutic relationship based on safety and trust is essential in affecting change. I'm a Licensed Independent Social Worker with twenty five years of experience practicing psychotherapy with adolescents and adults. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, grief and loss, and help to address life challenges, transitions, feelings of isolation and fear about the future. Additionally, I work with parents to assist and guide in the ever-challenging work of raising a teenager.
(917) 789-1419 View (917) 789-1419
Photo of Michelle Guillen - Michelle Guillen - NOCD, LMHC, LPCC, Counselor
Michelle Guillen - NOCD
Counselor, LMHC, LPCC
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43220  (Online Only)
My approach to OCD therapy is person-centered. Therapy is like hiking mountains. Some days the terrain is manageable and flat; other days, it's steep and challenging with narrow paths and uneven terrain. Rest if you must, but don't quit. I will be like your walking stick, bottle of water, and energy bar all rolled into one to support you every step of the way. Take a deep breath and remind yourself that you're worthy of being heard. At NOCD, my team and I provide personalized and effective specialized treatment for OCD and related conditions, such as BFRBs (including skin-picking, nail-biting, and hair-pulling).
My approach to OCD therapy is person-centered. Therapy is like hiking mountains. Some days the terrain is manageable and flat; other days, it's steep and challenging with narrow paths and uneven terrain. Rest if you must, but don't quit. I will be like your walking stick, bottle of water, and energy bar all rolled into one to support you every step of the way. Take a deep breath and remind yourself that you're worthy of being heard. At NOCD, my team and I provide personalized and effective specialized treatment for OCD and related conditions, such as BFRBs (including skin-picking, nail-biting, and hair-pulling).
(786) 730-9834 View (786) 730-9834
Photo of Rebekah Fink, LPCC-S
Rebekah Fink
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Beachwood, OH 44122
Are you suffering from trauma & finding it holding you back from living your true, authentic life? From my experience, I can see how challenging a Borderline Personality Disorder diagnosis can be on a person, & working with someone open to learning new skills to manage it better can be very rewarding! I enjoy working with people who are suffering from anxiety or depressive disorder as I have seen the progress my clients have made in those areas & I love to watch them start to live a more satisfying life. I am here to assist with any life transitions, relationship issues, grief, or OCD/phobias that are preventing you from your goals.
Are you suffering from trauma & finding it holding you back from living your true, authentic life? From my experience, I can see how challenging a Borderline Personality Disorder diagnosis can be on a person, & working with someone open to learning new skills to manage it better can be very rewarding! I enjoy working with people who are suffering from anxiety or depressive disorder as I have seen the progress my clients have made in those areas & I love to watch them start to live a more satisfying life. I am here to assist with any life transitions, relationship issues, grief, or OCD/phobias that are preventing you from your goals.
(216) 424-6373 View (216) 424-6373
Photo of Emily Pohorence, MEd, LPCC, LPCMHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emily Pohorence
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPCC, LPCMHSP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Lakewood, OH 44107  (Online Only)
Accepting new clients in Tennessee and Ohio! Will be credentialed with BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee in August 2024! I’m Emily and I work with teens and adults, navigating anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, gender exploration, neurodivergence, relationships, self-worth, sexuality, and trauma. As a queer identifying person, I am passionate about helping individuals within the LGBTQIA+ community, with specialized experience in transgender and nonbinary care. I have specific experience writing letters of support for transgender and nonbinary clients seeking Hormone Replacement Therapy and/or gender affirming surgery.
Accepting new clients in Tennessee and Ohio! Will be credentialed with BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee in August 2024! I’m Emily and I work with teens and adults, navigating anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, gender exploration, neurodivergence, relationships, self-worth, sexuality, and trauma. As a queer identifying person, I am passionate about helping individuals within the LGBTQIA+ community, with specialized experience in transgender and nonbinary care. I have specific experience writing letters of support for transgender and nonbinary clients seeking Hormone Replacement Therapy and/or gender affirming surgery.
(423) 556-8675 View (423) 556-8675

See more therapy options for Mansfield

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.