Safe and Sound Protocol

Safe. Secure. Regulated.

“Developed by Dr. Stephen Porges, The Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) is an evidence-based listening therapy designed to help regulate the nervous system, to help people better connect with themselves, others and the world around them. It helps to reduce sound sensitivities and improve auditory processing, behavioral state regulation, and social engagement behaviors through filtered music.

The SSP involves listening to specially-filtered music through headphones alongside a provider, in-person or remotely. A practical application of Polyvagal Theory, the SSP acts as an acoustic vagal nerve stimulator, helping to shift the nervous system out of a chronic state of defense and into a state of social engagement. By experiencing movement through physiological states, the client’s autonomic nervous system may be re-tuned to be more connected, resilient, and better able to respond to life’s challenges.” MyUnyte, 2023

A young boy with brown hair wearing headphones, a white shirt, and a colorful vest, standing outdoors in a park with trees and yellow autumn leaves, enjoying music with eyes closed.

  • Most likely, yes! The SSP is non-invasive and can help kids with a variety of areas, including auditory sensitivities, overall sensory processing, attention and executive function, sleep, emotional regulation, and social connection. See below for additional information on benefits of the SSP.

    • Easier and more spontaneous social connection

    • Better emotional control

    • Improvements in auditory and other sensory processing

    • Improved access to executive functions and higher cognitive abilities

    Clients may also see:

    • Greater focus and attention

    • Less impulsivity and hyperactivity

    • Improved body awareness and GI function

    • Less fatigue

    • Enhanced expressive and receptive language skills

    • Lower anxiety

    • Better physiological state regulation

    • Improved learning

    • Enhanced sleep

    • Reduced pain levels

    • Increased effectiveness of other modalities

    Results are unique to each person and cannot be guaranteed.

  • SSP is 5 total hours of music. This can be completed at home, and on a timeline that is suitable and tolerated by your child. Often the listening starts with 1-10 minutes, and works up to 15-30 minutes. I would not recommend more than 30 minutes a day. During the listening, your child can play with toys like blocks, play dough, color. No screens or complex tasks should be used while listening.

  • The basic requirements are: child size over ear headphones, a device that can connect to an app (tablet, phone, etc., a quiet, safe environment, and a trusted adult to sit with them during the session. That’s it!

  • $300 flat fee for existing clients receiving OT treatment

    $550 flat fee for program only (if not receiving direct treatment).

    Both options include SSP assessment, set-up and access to the app, facilitation of sessions directly or remotely as needed, and follow up for up to 6 weeks following program completion.

  • You may only gain access to the SSP programs through a trained and certified professional.

  • You can visit www.whatisthessp.com to learn more, review research, and watch a brief video.

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A woman and a young boy sit on the floor under a cozy blanket, sharing a moment together. The boy is wearing headphones, and they are making eye contact, smiling at each other.