Photo of Barry J. Richman MD, Psychiatrist in 10016, NY
Barry J. Richman MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10016
OUT OF NETWORK ONLY NO INSURANCE ACCEPTED I have been in private practice for over 20 years and have expertise in both psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. I specialize in diagnosing and treating patients who suffer from Anxiety disorders including Panic disorder, as well as Depression, Dysthymia and Personality Disorders. I also treat ADHD. I do both long and short term treatments and also have a special interest in Gay and Lesbian Issues. I also do Forensic Psychiatry Evaluations and have training in Psychiatry and Law.
OUT OF NETWORK ONLY NO INSURANCE ACCEPTED I have been in private practice for over 20 years and have expertise in both psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. I specialize in diagnosing and treating patients who suffer from Anxiety disorders including Panic disorder, as well as Depression, Dysthymia and Personality Disorders. I also treat ADHD. I do both long and short term treatments and also have a special interest in Gay and Lesbian Issues. I also do Forensic Psychiatry Evaluations and have training in Psychiatry and Law.
(646) 490-1839 View (646) 490-1839
Photo of Emily Barnett, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in 10016, NY
Emily Barnett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, F403917
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10016  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Emily is a ANCC Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She completed her undergraduate training at The University of Florida and The University of North Florida. She earned her master’s degree from The University of South Alabama. Emily provides comprehensive evaluations and psychiatric treatment plans for patients experiencing a range of difficulties, including mood disorders, anxiety, PTSD, and ADHD. She believes a careful and thorough evaluation provides the best path to work with the patient to develop an individualized plan of care for optimal mental health outcomes.
Emily is a ANCC Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She completed her undergraduate training at The University of Florida and The University of North Florida. She earned her master’s degree from The University of South Alabama. Emily provides comprehensive evaluations and psychiatric treatment plans for patients experiencing a range of difficulties, including mood disorders, anxiety, PTSD, and ADHD. She believes a careful and thorough evaluation provides the best path to work with the patient to develop an individualized plan of care for optimal mental health outcomes.
(646) 362-6927 View (646) 362-6927
Photo of Brighid Gannon, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in 10016, NY
Brighid Gannon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10016  (Online Only)
Our goal is to help you feel better faster. We are a team of passionate, board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioners who care deeply for our communities. We believe that psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive, intimidating or impossible to access. We are committed to providing care that is backed by science with a team of friendly providers that go the extra mile for you.
Our goal is to help you feel better faster. We are a team of passionate, board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioners who care deeply for our communities. We believe that psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive, intimidating or impossible to access. We are committed to providing care that is backed by science with a team of friendly providers that go the extra mile for you.
(332) 241-6646 View (332) 241-6646
Photo of Edward Malecki, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in 10016, NY
Edward Malecki
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10016
MANY INSURANCE PLANS ACCEPTED Edward Malecki MS, MHC, PMHNP-BC is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He is skilled in psychopharmacology and psychotherapy across the lifespan. Mr. Malecki completed his Bachelor of Science in Psychology as well as his advanced practice nursing degree at Stony Brook University. He also received his Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing at SUNY Downstate Medical Center and has a Master of Arts in Mental Health Counseling from Adelphi University. He is currently working at Modern Integrative Psychiatry in NYC.
MANY INSURANCE PLANS ACCEPTED Edward Malecki MS, MHC, PMHNP-BC is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He is skilled in psychopharmacology and psychotherapy across the lifespan. Mr. Malecki completed his Bachelor of Science in Psychology as well as his advanced practice nursing degree at Stony Brook University. He also received his Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing at SUNY Downstate Medical Center and has a Master of Arts in Mental Health Counseling from Adelphi University. He is currently working at Modern Integrative Psychiatry in NYC.
(646) 960-3385 View (646) 960-3385
Photo of Jennifer Nicolette, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in 10016, NY
Jennifer Nicolette
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10016  (Online Only)
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Jennifer and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New York. I specialize in Anxiety, Depression, sleep issues and Insomnia, Seasonal Affective Disorder, loss & grief, as well as medication management. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Jennifer and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New York. I specialize in Anxiety, Depression, sleep issues and Insomnia, Seasonal Affective Disorder, loss & grief, as well as medication management. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
(332) 455-1881 View (332) 455-1881
Photo of Courtney Paton, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in 10016, NY
Courtney Paton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10016  (Online Only)
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Courtney and I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I graduated with a Masters of Science in Psychiatric Nursing from Sage College. My specializations includes Medication Management, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Postpartum Depression, OCD, schizophrenia and Eating Disorders. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Courtney and I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I graduated with a Masters of Science in Psychiatric Nursing from Sage College. My specializations includes Medication Management, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Postpartum Depression, OCD, schizophrenia and Eating Disorders. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
(518) 412-7085 View (518) 412-7085
Photo of Alex Straaik, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in 10016, NY
Alex Straaik
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10016
MANY INSURANCE PLANS ACCEPTED Alex Straaik, MA, MS, PMHNP-BC (She/Her) is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner specializing in psychopharmacology. Ms. Straaik has a diverse academic background, including a Master of Science from The Ohio State University, and a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Writing, Literature, and Publishing and a Master of Arts in Writing and Publishing from Emerson College. She is extremely passionate about providing empathetic and empowering care that respects and values our unique life experiences. Ms. Straaik is an LGBTQ+ affirming provider with experience working with the community.
MANY INSURANCE PLANS ACCEPTED Alex Straaik, MA, MS, PMHNP-BC (She/Her) is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner specializing in psychopharmacology. Ms. Straaik has a diverse academic background, including a Master of Science from The Ohio State University, and a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Writing, Literature, and Publishing and a Master of Arts in Writing and Publishing from Emerson College. She is extremely passionate about providing empathetic and empowering care that respects and values our unique life experiences. Ms. Straaik is an LGBTQ+ affirming provider with experience working with the community.
(929) 531-5825 View (929) 531-5825
Photo of Joanne Keuck, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in 10016, NY
Joanne Keuck
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, FNP, MSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10016  (Online Only)
I am a master’s prepared dual-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and family nurse practitioner qualified to treat people of all ages. I received my master’s degree graduating Magna Cum Laude from D’Youville University in Buffalo, New York.
I am a master’s prepared dual-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and family nurse practitioner qualified to treat people of all ages. I received my master’s degree graduating Magna Cum Laude from D’Youville University in Buffalo, New York.
(646) 971-9410 View (646) 971-9410
Photo of Alexander S Grewal, Psychiatrist in 10016, NY
Alexander S Grewal
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10016  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I've worked at length with a wide variety of people. From counseling at an all-girl college to working in the prison system, I find strong connections with people from all walks of life. From a compatible connection can grow a good relationship; and this is what I base treatment upon. Adept at treating all standard psychiatric disorders as well as focusing in addressing the trauma related, substance, food, Relationship/Interpersonal, gender, sexual , and cultural problems that often accompany them.
I've worked at length with a wide variety of people. From counseling at an all-girl college to working in the prison system, I find strong connections with people from all walks of life. From a compatible connection can grow a good relationship; and this is what I base treatment upon. Adept at treating all standard psychiatric disorders as well as focusing in addressing the trauma related, substance, food, Relationship/Interpersonal, gender, sexual , and cultural problems that often accompany them.
(646) 506-4085 View (646) 506-4085
Photo of Dandan Wang, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in 10016, NY
Dandan Wang
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10016
Dandan is an ANCC board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who completed her master’s degree at National University in San Diego California. Dandan provides medication management and therapy for patients who suffer from mood disorders, anxiety, PTSD, complex trauma with a holistic and culturally appropriate approach.
Dandan is an ANCC board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who completed her master’s degree at National University in San Diego California. Dandan provides medication management and therapy for patients who suffer from mood disorders, anxiety, PTSD, complex trauma with a holistic and culturally appropriate approach.
(929) 447-2755 View (929) 447-2755
Photo of Mary Mazgaj, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in 10016, NY
Mary Mazgaj
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10016
She has experience in treating anxiety disorders, mood disorders including depression and bipolar disorder, phobias, OCD, adjustment disorders, PTSD, and alcohol use disorder.
Mary utilizes a patient-centered/tailored approach with an emphasis on collaborative, mutually respectful patient-provider relationships. She follows The Perspective Approach to psychiatry, recognizing that mental illness is not linear, but dimensional. She strives to provide a warm and compassionate environment where her patients feel heard, validated and respected. Her aim is to provide top notch psychiatric care and guide her clients toward a rewarding life that is not defined by their mental illnesses.
She has experience in treating anxiety disorders, mood disorders including depression and bipolar disorder, phobias, OCD, adjustment disorders, PTSD, and alcohol use disorder.
Mary utilizes a patient-centered/tailored approach with an emphasis on collaborative, mutually respectful patient-provider relationships. She follows The Perspective Approach to psychiatry, recognizing that mental illness is not linear, but dimensional. She strives to provide a warm and compassionate environment where her patients feel heard, validated and respected. Her aim is to provide top notch psychiatric care and guide her clients toward a rewarding life that is not defined by their mental illnesses.
(646) 906-8545 View (646) 906-8545
Photo of Suzanne Mallouk, M.D., Psychiatrist in 10016, NY
Suzanne Mallouk, M.D.
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10016  (Online Only)
I am a board certified psychiatrist. I am also a psychoanalyst trained at the William Alanson White Institute. I specialize in psychoanalytically informed psychotherapy, which means we can work on looking at the underlying issues, that you may be unconscious of, that cause problems in daily living and contribute to unhappiness and lack of fulfillment. I am also a medical doctor so can evaluate you for the use of medications if needed. It is beneficial to have this combined treatment with just one provider. I offer tele-psychiatry on SecureVideo, a HIPPA compliant platform. Please call me to make an appointment.
I am a board certified psychiatrist. I am also a psychoanalyst trained at the William Alanson White Institute. I specialize in psychoanalytically informed psychotherapy, which means we can work on looking at the underlying issues, that you may be unconscious of, that cause problems in daily living and contribute to unhappiness and lack of fulfillment. I am also a medical doctor so can evaluate you for the use of medications if needed. It is beneficial to have this combined treatment with just one provider. I offer tele-psychiatry on SecureVideo, a HIPPA compliant platform. Please call me to make an appointment.
(646) 502-8545 View (646) 502-8545
Photo of Zorica Filipovic-Jewell, Psychiatrist in 10016, NY
Zorica Filipovic-Jewell
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10016
I have a strong commitment to the well-being of my patients. My goal is to enable them to move on and maintain optimum quality of life, by providing support and a cutting edge, evidence-based care. After a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation and assessing individual's goals, together we discuss findings and recommendations and create strategy with a specific treatment plan. I work with individuals experiencing wide range of psychiatric issues, such as anxiety, relationship issues, career problems, OCD, PTSD, depression, bipolar disorder, etc. I enjoy working with patients of all ethnicities/religions/sexual orientations/identities.
I have a strong commitment to the well-being of my patients. My goal is to enable them to move on and maintain optimum quality of life, by providing support and a cutting edge, evidence-based care. After a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation and assessing individual's goals, together we discuss findings and recommendations and create strategy with a specific treatment plan. I work with individuals experiencing wide range of psychiatric issues, such as anxiety, relationship issues, career problems, OCD, PTSD, depression, bipolar disorder, etc. I enjoy working with patients of all ethnicities/religions/sexual orientations/identities.
(646) 970-9632 View (646) 970-9632
Photo of Emily Leiner, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in 10016, NY
Emily Leiner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10016  (Online Only)
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Emily and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New York. I specialize in Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Burnout, Chronic Illness, College/Graduate Student Mental Health, Depression, Family Issues, Life Transitions, Relationship Struggles, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Sleep Problems, Stress Management, OCD and ADHD. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Emily and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New York. I specialize in Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Burnout, Chronic Illness, College/Graduate Student Mental Health, Depression, Family Issues, Life Transitions, Relationship Struggles, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Sleep Problems, Stress Management, OCD and ADHD. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
(929) 338-6112 View (929) 338-6112
Photo of Cathleen Jean-Joseph, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in 10016, NY
Cathleen Jean-Joseph
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10016
Hello, my name is Cathleen and I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 23 years of nursing experience. I graduated with my Masters of Science in Nursing from Wegmans School of Nursing at St. John Fishers College. I specialize in Medication Management, Anxiety and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. I work at Lavender where we believe that psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive, intimidating or impossible to access.
Hello, my name is Cathleen and I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 23 years of nursing experience. I graduated with my Masters of Science in Nursing from Wegmans School of Nursing at St. John Fishers College. I specialize in Medication Management, Anxiety and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. I work at Lavender where we believe that psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive, intimidating or impossible to access.
(585) 541-2858 View (585) 541-2858
Photo of Nabil Rezk, Psychiatrist in 10016, NY
Nabil Rezk
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10016
Hello and welcome to my practice. I am Dr Rezk; Board Certified Psychiatrist. I graduated from Mount Sinai School of Medicine. I also did Psychodynamic psychotherapy fellowship at MSSM. My interest is towards my patients and my patients are my priority. I love my career and I love to take care of my patients. My 2 private Practice locations are at Bay Ridge BK and Astoria Queens which is very convenient and near transportation. We handle the work in a great team work manner and do great patients' care.
Hello and welcome to my practice. I am Dr Rezk; Board Certified Psychiatrist. I graduated from Mount Sinai School of Medicine. I also did Psychodynamic psychotherapy fellowship at MSSM. My interest is towards my patients and my patients are my priority. I love my career and I love to take care of my patients. My 2 private Practice locations are at Bay Ridge BK and Astoria Queens which is very convenient and near transportation. We handle the work in a great team work manner and do great patients' care.
(347) 609-7773 View (347) 609-7773
Photo of Cynthia Goodman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in 10016, NY
Cynthia Goodman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10016  (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Cynthia and I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 48 years of nursing experience. I graduated with my Masters of Science in Nursing from Boston University. I specialize in Medication Management, Anxiety, ADHD, Depression and Relationship Issues. I work at Lavender where we believe that psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive, intimidating or impossible to access.
Hello, my name is Cynthia and I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 48 years of nursing experience. I graduated with my Masters of Science in Nursing from Boston University. I specialize in Medication Management, Anxiety, ADHD, Depression and Relationship Issues. I work at Lavender where we believe that psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive, intimidating or impossible to access.
(518) 241-4556 View (518) 241-4556
Photo of Jordana Michele Cotton, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in 10016, NY
Jordana Michele Cotton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, PMHCNS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
New York, NY 10016
I have expertise in treating insomnia, depression, generalized anxiety (worry), panic disorder, OCD, specific phobias, attentional disorders (ADHD), addictions, disordered eating, bipolar I and II disorders, and long covid (PASC).
I am a Doctoral trained Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 20+ years of health care experience and 16 years of psychopharmacology and psychotherapy expertise. I received my Doctorate and Master’s degrees from the prestigious Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) IHP in Boston. I provide a safe environment and partnership with my clients. I customize pharmaceutical and therapy solutions based on individual needs.
I have expertise in treating insomnia, depression, generalized anxiety (worry), panic disorder, OCD, specific phobias, attentional disorders (ADHD), addictions, disordered eating, bipolar I and II disorders, and long covid (PASC).
I am a Doctoral trained Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 20+ years of health care experience and 16 years of psychopharmacology and psychotherapy expertise. I received my Doctorate and Master’s degrees from the prestigious Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) IHP in Boston. I provide a safe environment and partnership with my clients. I customize pharmaceutical and therapy solutions based on individual needs.
(516) 701-3021 View (516) 701-3021
Photo of Sujatha Charlu, Psychiatrist in 10016, NY
Sujatha Charlu
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10016
Not accepting new clients
I am a child, adolescent, & adult psychiatrist, treating a wide range of emotional, behavioral, and relational difficulties. I specialize in problems of anxiety and stress (panic attacks, OCD, phobias, generalized anxiety), mood and depression, childhood behavior (ADHD, oppositionality), autism spectrum disorders, and psychosis. I believe strongly in the importance of psychotherapy as well as the balanced, evidence-based use of medications where necessary. I feel every session is a therapeutic one, and take time to understand a client's difficulties in the context of their relationships, jobs, school, and daily lives. Please note that I am a private pay doctor and do not take insurance.
I am a child, adolescent, & adult psychiatrist, treating a wide range of emotional, behavioral, and relational difficulties. I specialize in problems of anxiety and stress (panic attacks, OCD, phobias, generalized anxiety), mood and depression, childhood behavior (ADHD, oppositionality), autism spectrum disorders, and psychosis. I believe strongly in the importance of psychotherapy as well as the balanced, evidence-based use of medications where necessary. I feel every session is a therapeutic one, and take time to understand a client's difficulties in the context of their relationships, jobs, school, and daily lives. Please note that I am a private pay doctor and do not take insurance.
(646) 798-4097 View (646) 798-4097
Photo of Vivian M Lee, Psychiatrist in 10016, NY
Vivian M Lee
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10016
Not accepting new clients
** Please note that Dr. Lee is not currently accepting new patients. ** Dr. Vivian Lee graduated summa cum laude at Harvard University and received her medical degree from Cornell Medical College. She completed her training in adult psychiatry at New York Presbyterian Hospital - Cornell Medical Center. Dr. Lee has expertise in both psychopharmacology and psychotherapy, and is thus able to provide integrated and comprehensive treatment tailored to each individual patient. Dr. Lee also has extensive experience in biomedical research and received her Ph.D. in Molecular Biology and Biochemistry from Rockefeller University.
** Please note that Dr. Lee is not currently accepting new patients. ** Dr. Vivian Lee graduated summa cum laude at Harvard University and received her medical degree from Cornell Medical College. She completed her training in adult psychiatry at New York Presbyterian Hospital - Cornell Medical Center. Dr. Lee has expertise in both psychopharmacology and psychotherapy, and is thus able to provide integrated and comprehensive treatment tailored to each individual patient. Dr. Lee also has extensive experience in biomedical research and received her Ph.D. in Molecular Biology and Biochemistry from Rockefeller University.
(917) 512-6861 View (917) 512-6861
Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Psychiatrists

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.