Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP)

What is the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP)?

The SSP is an audio-based intervention designed to reduce stress and enhance social engagement and resilience. The effectiveness of SSP is derived from four decades of research by Dr. Stephen Porges’ on the relationship between the autonomic nervous system (ANS) and social-emotional processes called Polyvagal Theory. According to Polyvagal Theory, if emotional and physiological states can be calmed, improved communication and more space for successful healing can follow. 

SSP uses vocal music filtered to train the middle ear muscles to simulate nervous system regulation by exercising and systematically challenging the auditory system. After SSP, you might find yourself better able to interpret the meaning and intent of conversations. People also experience a greater sense of safety through a more regulated physiological state, which can “accelerate or enhance subsequent therapy,” according to Porges. 

The SSP is a research-based intervention which helps clients improve in the following areas:

  • Focus in school, work, and everyday life;

  • Calmer emotional and physiological state across settings/environments 

  • Enhanced attention and social engagement 

  • Reduced anxiety symptoms 

  • Reduced auditory sensitivities

The music trains the auditory pathways by focusing on the frequency envelope of human speech. As the client learns to process these speech-related frequencies, they improve the functioning of two cranial nerves that are important for promoting overall social behavior. Cranial Nerve VII (Facial Nerve) helps clients focus on human voice and tune out irrelevant frequencies. Cranial Nerve X (Vagus Nerve) enables self-soothing and autonomic regulation.

What to expect in SSP sessions 

I work with each individual client and adjust the delivery of the SSP to best suit their needs. I develop a tailored listening plan of a few minutes to a full hour of listening per session.  

During the listening, I offer guidance and co-regulation during the entire listening process for SSP Core via secure video.

Shifts resulting from work with the SSP are often subtle and, other times, large. Some changes may be uncomfortable, especially at first. For this reason,  It’s important to have a safe person who is available to you between listening sessions.

Each session is one hour whether listening to all or a portion of the SSP (based on client preference and response). Remaining session time is used to process the listening through Somatic Experiencing (SE). 

Fees for this service are based on an hourly rate of $135 plus an onboarding fee of $25 for access to the SSP MyUnyte App. Clients should also have access to over-the-ear (circumaural) headphones (without bass boost) for listening to create an immersive sound experience. 

For more information about the SSP, please go to: https://integratedlistening.com/ssp-safe-sound-protocol/