Photo of Gabi Goldstein, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kansas City, MO
Gabi Goldstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CSAYC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64109  (Online Only)
Gabi possesses advanced training in the treatment of trauma and dissociative disorders, as well as expertise in treating Borderline Personality, mood disorders, obsessive-compulsive tendencies, and sexual maladaptive behaviors.
Gabi Goldstein is board-certified Licensed Clinical Social Worker. She earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work from the University of Kansas and holds a Master’s Degree in Social Work from Loyola University Chicago. With a career spanning since 2017, Gabi has demonstrated her expertise by providing mental health treatment across diverse settings, including acute-care facilities, residential placement, outpatient services, and private practice. Gabi is a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and has prior experience serving as Clinical Director of a Mental Health Agency.
Gabi possesses advanced training in the treatment of trauma and dissociative disorders, as well as expertise in treating Borderline Personality, mood disorders, obsessive-compulsive tendencies, and sexual maladaptive behaviors.
Gabi Goldstein is board-certified Licensed Clinical Social Worker. She earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work from the University of Kansas and holds a Master’s Degree in Social Work from Loyola University Chicago. With a career spanning since 2017, Gabi has demonstrated her expertise by providing mental health treatment across diverse settings, including acute-care facilities, residential placement, outpatient services, and private practice. Gabi is a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and has prior experience serving as Clinical Director of a Mental Health Agency.
View
Photo of Emily J Towner, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kansas City, MO
Emily J Towner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64114
I treat all sorts of mental disorders including depression, anxiety, panic, OCD, PTSD, Adult Aspergers Syndrome, Bipolar Disorder, Substance abuse, relationship and family issues.
Mental health is part of your physical health. You cannot have one without the other. No one is exempt from facing mental health struggles at one time or another in their life. It is not uncommon during times of mental health struggles, either it be an isolated incident of panic, short-term and long-term anxiety, tragedy, situational depression, or circumstances that were out of your control that caused you to have a "new normal." Therapy will alleviate these stressors through a process of personal insight, change, and opening your eyes to a new way of seeing your life and how you react to it.
I treat all sorts of mental disorders including depression, anxiety, panic, OCD, PTSD, Adult Aspergers Syndrome, Bipolar Disorder, Substance abuse, relationship and family issues.
Mental health is part of your physical health. You cannot have one without the other. No one is exempt from facing mental health struggles at one time or another in their life. It is not uncommon during times of mental health struggles, either it be an isolated incident of panic, short-term and long-term anxiety, tragedy, situational depression, or circumstances that were out of your control that caused you to have a "new normal." Therapy will alleviate these stressors through a process of personal insight, change, and opening your eyes to a new way of seeing your life and how you react to it.
(816) 565-4270 View (816) 565-4270
Photo of Brian P Heydon, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kansas City, MO
Brian P Heydon
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC, CIT
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64114
Finding the right counselor may be one of the most important decisions you can make in seeking a better life. As my client, you will be provided a therapeutic relationship that is non-threatening, challenging, empowering, and ultimately life changing. You will find that your pain, which is actually healing trying to happen, will be lessened and most likely alleviated, your feelings and experiences are valid, and that you can make positive changes to improve your life and relationships. I'm a Certified Imago Relationship Therapist and specialize in relationships - between couples, parents and children, friends - any human relationship
Finding the right counselor may be one of the most important decisions you can make in seeking a better life. As my client, you will be provided a therapeutic relationship that is non-threatening, challenging, empowering, and ultimately life changing. You will find that your pain, which is actually healing trying to happen, will be lessened and most likely alleviated, your feelings and experiences are valid, and that you can make positive changes to improve your life and relationships. I'm a Certified Imago Relationship Therapist and specialize in relationships - between couples, parents and children, friends - any human relationship
(816) 659-3196 View (816) 659-3196
Photo of Amy E. Munce, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kansas City, MO
Amy E. Munce
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64110
My work is focused on providing committed individuals/couples with tools to achieve desired change in the quality of their lives. I practice a direct, yet compassionate approach to therapy, stemming from extensive training and experience practicing Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Act and Commitment therapy, Gottman therapy interventions for relationship work, including high-conflict couples and behavioral interventions to implement actual change. I access evidence-based therapies, self/relationship care, skills application and the client's value system in order to nurture hope and effectively make short and long term progress.
My work is focused on providing committed individuals/couples with tools to achieve desired change in the quality of their lives. I practice a direct, yet compassionate approach to therapy, stemming from extensive training and experience practicing Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Act and Commitment therapy, Gottman therapy interventions for relationship work, including high-conflict couples and behavioral interventions to implement actual change. I access evidence-based therapies, self/relationship care, skills application and the client's value system in order to nurture hope and effectively make short and long term progress.
(816) 326-2998 View (816) 326-2998
Photo of Adam Lynch, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kansas City, MO
Adam Lynch
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64153
We are not meant to live life alone, but rather deeply involved in relationships. Some of these relationships are highly successful, while others have come with great loss, significant struggle or just the every day difficulty of learning to live and enjoy life with another person. I believe in the value of working through personal problems in the context of building stronger relationships. I will help you work through this on a personal level or with whomever you are needing to have a restored relationship with.
We are not meant to live life alone, but rather deeply involved in relationships. Some of these relationships are highly successful, while others have come with great loss, significant struggle or just the every day difficulty of learning to live and enjoy life with another person. I believe in the value of working through personal problems in the context of building stronger relationships. I will help you work through this on a personal level or with whomever you are needing to have a restored relationship with.
(816) 327-7967 View (816) 327-7967
Photo of Jerald Payne, LSCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kansas City, MO
Jerald Payne, LSCSW, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64111
I work with individuals, couples and families on such issues as relationship issues, problem solving, conflict resolution, communication enhancement, anger management, drug/alcohol abuse and addiction. Many clients present with depression, bipolar disorder and other mood disorders, psychotic disorders, ADHD, childhood disorders such as conduct disorder, oppositional defiant disorder, etc. I work with adults and couples on relationship/marital issues, domestic violence, etc. I work with clients who have experienced abuse, both sexual and physical. I assist parents with parent-child relational issues and behavior modification skill development. I also assist clients with anxiety disorders, grief/loss issues and struggles with adjusting to life circumstances.
I work with individuals, couples and families on such issues as relationship issues, problem solving, conflict resolution, communication enhancement, anger management, drug/alcohol abuse and addiction. Many clients present with depression, bipolar disorder and other mood disorders, psychotic disorders, ADHD, childhood disorders such as conduct disorder, oppositional defiant disorder, etc. I work with adults and couples on relationship/marital issues, domestic violence, etc. I work with clients who have experienced abuse, both sexual and physical. I assist parents with parent-child relational issues and behavior modification skill development. I also assist clients with anxiety disorders, grief/loss issues and struggles with adjusting to life circumstances.
(816) 839-9448 View (816) 839-9448
Photo of Brandi Haskins, Pre-Licensed Professional in Kansas City, MO
Brandi Haskins
Pre-Licensed Professional, PLPC, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64110
Life can be filled with challenging, yet beautiful moments when we are truly present in our day to day lives. I believe that we can take each opportunity to learn, grow, and cultivate joy to help us feel better connected to others, ourselves, and the world around us. I am passionate about working with those who are experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, eating disorders, self-esteem issues and life transitions. My approach primarily uses principles from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), tailored to the needs of each client.
Life can be filled with challenging, yet beautiful moments when we are truly present in our day to day lives. I believe that we can take each opportunity to learn, grow, and cultivate joy to help us feel better connected to others, ourselves, and the world around us. I am passionate about working with those who are experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, eating disorders, self-esteem issues and life transitions. My approach primarily uses principles from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), tailored to the needs of each client.
(816) 327-2182 View (816) 327-2182
Photo of Kalen Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kansas City, MO
Kalen Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR-BC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64108
Are you struggling with your relationship with your body, food, and/or exercise? Things that were once joyful now feel controlling? My name is Kalen and I specialize in providing eating disorder informed care for children, teens, and adults struggling with all types of eating disorders. In addition to this, I have experience working with a variety of other difficulties including anxiety, depression, and many more. I am a licensed professional counselor and nationally board-certified art therapist with years of experience providing eating disorder informed counseling at all levels of care.
Are you struggling with your relationship with your body, food, and/or exercise? Things that were once joyful now feel controlling? My name is Kalen and I specialize in providing eating disorder informed care for children, teens, and adults struggling with all types of eating disorders. In addition to this, I have experience working with a variety of other difficulties including anxiety, depression, and many more. I am a licensed professional counselor and nationally board-certified art therapist with years of experience providing eating disorder informed counseling at all levels of care.
(816) 307-7310 View (816) 307-7310
Photo of Craig Mcandrew, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kansas City, MO
Craig Mcandrew
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCAC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64112
Yes I have availability. No, I'm not in network with insurance. Your out of network benefits may cover. I'm very easy to talk to. Do you have trouble sleeping? Are you overwhelmed? Do you have a sense of doom? Have friends and/or family commented on the amount of alcohol or drugs you can take? If so, you may benefit from seeing me. Since 1996, I have worked extensively with people struggling with Substance Use Disorders, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, and Grief. I also take a secular approach to those who have experienced religious trauma. If you have struggled with any of these issues, I can definitely help.
Yes I have availability. No, I'm not in network with insurance. Your out of network benefits may cover. I'm very easy to talk to. Do you have trouble sleeping? Are you overwhelmed? Do you have a sense of doom? Have friends and/or family commented on the amount of alcohol or drugs you can take? If so, you may benefit from seeing me. Since 1996, I have worked extensively with people struggling with Substance Use Disorders, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, and Grief. I also take a secular approach to those who have experienced religious trauma. If you have struggled with any of these issues, I can definitely help.
(816) 727-7769 View (816) 727-7769
Photo of Jessie McLaughlin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kansas City, MO
Jessie McLaughlin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64105  (Online Only)
Life is hard. So many of us struggle with issues related to anxiety, depression, and addiction making life feel even harder. Feelings of inadequacy, hopelessness, and self-doubt can hold us back. Overthinking and endless negative thoughts can have us ready to give up. Fortunately, those distressing feelings and thoughts don't have to be permanent. You are capable of developing emotional resilience and self-empowerment to enable you thrive. You are worthy of good things.
Life is hard. So many of us struggle with issues related to anxiety, depression, and addiction making life feel even harder. Feelings of inadequacy, hopelessness, and self-doubt can hold us back. Overthinking and endless negative thoughts can have us ready to give up. Fortunately, those distressing feelings and thoughts don't have to be permanent. You are capable of developing emotional resilience and self-empowerment to enable you thrive. You are worthy of good things.
(816) 578-6116 View (816) 578-6116
Photo of Laura Dixon, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kansas City, MO
Laura Dixon
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC, RBT
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64114
Waitlist for new clients
Do you wish there was someone out there that understood you? Do you feel separate from others, different somehow and struggle to find someone to relate to? Possibly you feel inauthentic in your relationships with others or in the roles that you find yourself in. Human connection is something that we all need and strive for and yet is difficult to obtain at times especially with our fast-paced, individual-centric lives. The therapeutic relationship can provide a safe space to explore identities, challenge obstacles to connection and learn to overcome our difficulties in new and exciting ways.
Do you wish there was someone out there that understood you? Do you feel separate from others, different somehow and struggle to find someone to relate to? Possibly you feel inauthentic in your relationships with others or in the roles that you find yourself in. Human connection is something that we all need and strive for and yet is difficult to obtain at times especially with our fast-paced, individual-centric lives. The therapeutic relationship can provide a safe space to explore identities, challenge obstacles to connection and learn to overcome our difficulties in new and exciting ways.
(816) 934-5212 View (816) 934-5212
Photo of KC Counseling Studio, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kansas City, MO
KC Counseling Studio
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64106
My therapeutic style is ideal for clients looking to reconnect with themselves on all levels. Clients should come curious about identifying emotional and psychological blocks, as well as where trauma, tension, anxiety, or depression is stored in the physical body. I specialize in treating people who are struggling with anxiety, depression, illness, death, sexual assault survivors, and bi-polar. I frequently work with women who are trying to stabilize their body and mind after childbirth, trauma, or menapause. All are welcome.
My therapeutic style is ideal for clients looking to reconnect with themselves on all levels. Clients should come curious about identifying emotional and psychological blocks, as well as where trauma, tension, anxiety, or depression is stored in the physical body. I specialize in treating people who are struggling with anxiety, depression, illness, death, sexual assault survivors, and bi-polar. I frequently work with women who are trying to stabilize their body and mind after childbirth, trauma, or menapause. All are welcome.
(816) 623-1011 View (816) 623-1011
Photo of Tyler R Burch, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kansas City, MO
Tyler R Burch
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64108  (Online Only)
Nobody is absent of a history that has not at some point brought about hurt, anger, grief, or sadness, and I believe that our current existence is a culmination of these past experiences, good or bad. The emotional outcome is oftentimes determined on our awareness, our interpretation, and how we have chosen to respond to these experiences.
Nobody is absent of a history that has not at some point brought about hurt, anger, grief, or sadness, and I believe that our current existence is a culmination of these past experiences, good or bad. The emotional outcome is oftentimes determined on our awareness, our interpretation, and how we have chosen to respond to these experiences.
(816) 307-1770 x102 View (816) 307-1770 x102
Photo of Vanessa Wray Knight, Counselor in Kansas City, MO
Vanessa Wray Knight
Counselor, LCPC, NCC, CCMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64105
Hello! I'm Vanessa, co-owner of Secure Counseling Clinics. I've lived in KC for 20 years with my husband, 4 children, 3 dogs, 2 cats, 1 bearded dragon, and a flock of backyard chickens! I'm a Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in both MO and KS, Nationally Certified Counselor, Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor, and KS board-approved clinical supervisor. My heart work is helping humans with complex trauma. Couples, as well as parents and their children, work with me to form secure attachments with each other. I help clients experiencing relationship difficulties and those who experience pain from circumstances or losses.
Hello! I'm Vanessa, co-owner of Secure Counseling Clinics. I've lived in KC for 20 years with my husband, 4 children, 3 dogs, 2 cats, 1 bearded dragon, and a flock of backyard chickens! I'm a Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in both MO and KS, Nationally Certified Counselor, Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor, and KS board-approved clinical supervisor. My heart work is helping humans with complex trauma. Couples, as well as parents and their children, work with me to form secure attachments with each other. I help clients experiencing relationship difficulties and those who experience pain from circumstances or losses.
(816) 608-8444 View (816) 608-8444
Photo of Focused Concentration-KC Wellness Dr. Fernandez, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kansas City, MO
Focused Concentration-KC Wellness Dr. Fernandez
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64111
OFFERING REDUCED FEE (PHONE OR VIDEO) TO ALL FIRST RESPONDERS AFFECTED BY COVID-19. I hold a doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology and treat a variety of emotional issues for adults and couples. I provide diagnostic testing and treatment of ADHD, mood disorders, and substance abuse/addiction issues. Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), and Interpersonal Therapy for depression, anxiety, family conflict and overall addiction/impulse control. Bilingual Spanish-English.
OFFERING REDUCED FEE (PHONE OR VIDEO) TO ALL FIRST RESPONDERS AFFECTED BY COVID-19. I hold a doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology and treat a variety of emotional issues for adults and couples. I provide diagnostic testing and treatment of ADHD, mood disorders, and substance abuse/addiction issues. Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), and Interpersonal Therapy for depression, anxiety, family conflict and overall addiction/impulse control. Bilingual Spanish-English.
(816) 974-0601 View (816) 974-0601
Photo of Olufemi (Femi) Sharp, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kansas City, MO
Olufemi (Femi) Sharp
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64114
Spring time is here a time for clearing and shedding away the old narratives that keep us stuck in the past. Are you ready to release and let go of the trauma, anxiety, unworthiness, depression, loneliness? Trauma lives in the body you are worthy of healing, renewal and restoration in the mind, body and spirit. I will inspire you to feel it and heal it and carry the shift toward becoming fully present and alive in self-love. You will learn the ancient transformative power of emboded presence, peace and practice. I will teach you the powerful science-based practices for increasing the neural pathways of happiness. Spring forward.
Spring time is here a time for clearing and shedding away the old narratives that keep us stuck in the past. Are you ready to release and let go of the trauma, anxiety, unworthiness, depression, loneliness? Trauma lives in the body you are worthy of healing, renewal and restoration in the mind, body and spirit. I will inspire you to feel it and heal it and carry the shift toward becoming fully present and alive in self-love. You will learn the ancient transformative power of emboded presence, peace and practice. I will teach you the powerful science-based practices for increasing the neural pathways of happiness. Spring forward.
(816) 839-9476 View (816) 839-9476
Photo of Alex McEntire, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kansas City, MO
Alex McEntire
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64108
My ideal client grapples with anxiety, trauma, or addictions. They span across all age groups, from adolescents to the elderly. At the core of their struggle is a fervent desire for serenity and self-acceptance. Their ultimate goal isn't just to find relief but to also embrace transformative change. They're actively seeking not just a momentary reprieve but a sustained peace, and with the right guidance, they aspire to cultivate a life of calm and understanding.
My ideal client grapples with anxiety, trauma, or addictions. They span across all age groups, from adolescents to the elderly. At the core of their struggle is a fervent desire for serenity and self-acceptance. Their ultimate goal isn't just to find relief but to also embrace transformative change. They're actively seeking not just a momentary reprieve but a sustained peace, and with the right guidance, they aspire to cultivate a life of calm and understanding.
(816) 653-3441 View (816) 653-3441
Photo of Nick T Butcher, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kansas City, MO
Nick T Butcher
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-MO, LCPC-KS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64105  (Online Only)
Hello. If you are reading this right now, then you are likely considering taking action to explore change in your life. I would be honored to help guide you in the process. You can give me a call or send me an email to get things started.
Hello. If you are reading this right now, then you are likely considering taking action to explore change in your life. I would be honored to help guide you in the process. You can give me a call or send me an email to get things started.
(816) 624-2754 View (816) 624-2754
Photo of Dr. Annalise Millet, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kansas City, MO
Dr. Annalise Millet
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64106  (Online Only)
Unresolved trauma can be devastating. Are you feeling numb and shut down or agitated and on alert. Does that resonate for you? Most of us have experienced a traumatic event during the course of our lives; how you recover is directly impacted by the kind of support you have in your life. Experiencing trauma, abuse, or neglect could mean you have fewer internal resources to combat the impact. This can lead to unhealthy ways of dealing with the pain such as addictions, self-harm, destructive relationships, isolation. Through healthy connections and therapy, you can process traumatic experiences and find joy again. I’m eager to help.
Unresolved trauma can be devastating. Are you feeling numb and shut down or agitated and on alert. Does that resonate for you? Most of us have experienced a traumatic event during the course of our lives; how you recover is directly impacted by the kind of support you have in your life. Experiencing trauma, abuse, or neglect could mean you have fewer internal resources to combat the impact. This can lead to unhealthy ways of dealing with the pain such as addictions, self-harm, destructive relationships, isolation. Through healthy connections and therapy, you can process traumatic experiences and find joy again. I’m eager to help.
(561) 203-0683 View (561) 203-0683
Photo of Candiss Williams, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kansas City, MO
Candiss Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64114  (Online Only)
Virtual Only: I specialize in providing clients with a unique approach to helping them reach specific life goals. I will help you recognize problems and take action to decrease or eliminate potential impacts to your emotional well-being. My customized approach, tailored to individual needs, allows me to help you create achievable goals that are based on your needs and lifestyle. I use state-of-the-art tools to identify your issues easily and effectively. I am committed to helping you make fluid movement in your life. I am licensed to provide services in 3 states:Texas, Missouri and Minnesota.
Virtual Only: I specialize in providing clients with a unique approach to helping them reach specific life goals. I will help you recognize problems and take action to decrease or eliminate potential impacts to your emotional well-being. My customized approach, tailored to individual needs, allows me to help you create achievable goals that are based on your needs and lifestyle. I use state-of-the-art tools to identify your issues easily and effectively. I am committed to helping you make fluid movement in your life. I am licensed to provide services in 3 states:Texas, Missouri and Minnesota.
(210) 405-2891 View (210) 405-2891

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.