Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP)
The Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) is an evidence-based listening therapy designed to increase the listener’s neurological capacity for self-regulation and brain-body resilience. The SSP program utilizes filtered music to deliver neural exercise, which can modify the neural networks associated with arousal and regulation through the process of neuroplasticity. Some specific benefits of the SSP may include: improved auditory processing, reduced sound sensitivities, and increased capacity to feel grounded, connected, and emotionally open.
What’s the SSP?
The SSP is a non-invasive, auditory therapy that stimulates the vagus nerve with specially filtered music designed to deliver cues of safety to the listener’s autonomic nervous system (ANS). The SSP offers several playlist choices, with each playlist offering a unique genre of music. By “retuning” the ANS, the SSP supports neuroplasticity and can catalyze brain-body healing though rehabilitation of the middle ear muscles. Moreover, the SSP can alter how our brain-body system processes and modulates environmental stimuli, including auditory input. Because the SSP supports brain-body adaptation, it can enhance the effectiveness of other therapeutic interventions, including psychotherapy.
The SSP is an excellent supplement to ongoing psychotherapy because it can enhance our brain-body capacity to adapt and change through neuroplasticity. Using a “bottom-up” approach, the SSP supports increased capacity for regulation and physiological resilience to environmental stressors, and can therefore help us get “unstuck” from patterns of reactivity and may help to solidify new behavioral strategies for responding to the stressors we face in our day to day lives. Importantly, the SSP can also expand our brain-body capacity to benefit from co-regulatory support and connection.
To learn more about the science of the SSP, click here.
Who is the SSP for?
The SSP listening program is for children, adolescents, adults, and families. The SSP may be especially helpful for individuals experiencing anxiety, anxious arousal, difficulties related to attention and auditory processing, and/or sensory processing challenges, including sound sensitivities.
What’s the process?
The SSP is a 5-hour listening program developed by Dr. Stephen Porges based on Polyvagal Theory. Delivered across a series of listening sessions, the SSP can be accessed from the comfort of your home with the support and guidance of a Certified SSP Provider. Listening sessions are delivered at a pace that matches your needs and schedule.
Here are the steps to support you on your SSP listening program:
1. DISCOVERY
We’ll start with an intake session to identify your needs, discuss your desired outcomes, and collaboratively plan your SSP listening program. We can meet via video chat or we can use a ‘walk & talk’ format.
2. ASSESSMENT
You’ll be invited to complete pre-SSP intake and assessment tools so we can understand your current experiences and measure change. Your pre-SSP assessments can be accessed electronically via your personalized SSP Dashboard.
3. SSP DELIVERY
With the support of your SSP Provider, you’ll be invited to start your SSP listening! You’ll need over ear headphones and will be able to access your SSP listening content via an app downloaded to your smartphone or tablet.
Prior to starting your listening program, you can choose between several genres of music, including 3 options that do not include lyrics.
Then simply listen to your SSP program (composed of 5 hours of specially filtered music), delivered with Provider support at a pace tailored to you and your needs.
4. FOLLOW-UP ASSESSMENT
After completing your SSP listening program, you’ll be invited to complete post-SSP assessment tools so we can measure change in your experiences and behavior.
5. CLOSING SESSION
A closing session for reflecting on your growth, wrapping up your SSP experience, and identifying next steps if applicable.
Ready to get started?
Safe & Sound Protocol (SSP)
$199
Access to the 5-hour SSP Core listening program plus the optional SSP Balance program. With purchase you will also receive: access to a personalized SSP dashboard and ongoing support from Caitlin, including a one hour intake session, weekly or biweekly check-ins, and a closing session for discussing changes and potential next steps.
Please note: Your insurance provider may reimburse you for your Intake and Closing sessions depending on your insurance plan. A superbill is available upon request.
You can read more about the science behind the SSP, the benefits, and what to expect at www.whatisthessp.com.
Still have questions?
Schedule a free 15 minute consultation with Caitlin.