Safe and Sound Protocol
What is the SSP?
Developed by Dr. Stephen Porges, founder of the Polyvagal Theory, The Safe & Sound Protocol (SSP) is a gentle, non-invasive therapy that involves listening to a speciality formulated sequence of filtered music. The music has been designed specifically to re-tune the nervous system which activates a sense of safety helping individuals connect with themselves, others, and the world from a foundation of physiological safety.
The Safe and Sound Protocol is an evidence-based therapeutic tool designed to work with other therapeutic approaches and modalities.
Who can benefit from the SSP?
The SSP is suitable for children and adults, and has been designed to work with a diverse variety of therapeutic approaches and modalities. Its effectiveness has been proven in a wide range of studies including clinical trials involving children with Autism Spectrum Disorder, along with numerous case studies demonstrating effectiveness with emotional regulation, trauma, anxiety and more.
Safe and Sound Protocol is not a quick fix, or cure-all. The Protocol yields the most benefits when it is a part of a multi-pronged approach to our mind/body connection.
How is SSP Delivered?
The SSP is delivered through an app-based platform, available on Android and iOS devices, that empowers therapists, clinicians, and healthcare providers to easily and conveniently provide this life-changing therapy.
Delivered either in-clinic or remotely (only where deemed appropriate following assessment with the clinician), the client experiences the SSP through over-the-ear headphones conveniently connected to the Unyte-iLs app. The clinician manages client access, monitoring and titrating listening on the MyUnyte Platform.
The participant will be listening to filtered music as guided by their SSP certified OKAY therapist. Although they can listen less, it is important to not listen more than the time suggested. It is important that the delivery is completed in a safe place for the person to engage their social engagement system.
What are the benefits of SSP?
The SSP is the only practical application of Polyvagal Theory, and is designed to improve sound sensitivities and auditory processing, behavioural state regulation, and social engagement behaviours through specially-filtered music.
Noticeable benefits can include:
Focus and be more present in school, therapy and everyday life.
Experience a more settled emotional and physiological state.
Improved ability to regulate emotions and engage socially.
What is the role of the therapist?
The role of the therapist in this process is to improve the participants (and their caregivers) awareness of self and increase regulatory capacity. Evidence highlights that the “safe” provided by the therapist as well as the environment is the key to the success of this program.
Providing safe and co-regulatory environments and relationships enables the client to listen to the “sound” receptively. This enables the “sound” to target their autonomic nervous system in a way that feels “safe” which supports the participant to feel more comfortable being regulated and flexible in their thoughts and body responses.
The program requires careful titration of the "sound” to meet the person where they are while ensuring they feel “safe” in this new experience and ultimately supporting the development of ones authentic self. Many clinicians have noted results after one session, and after completion of the full program (which can be titrated based on individual client need and receptivity), the ability for clients to better regulate and socially connect as a result of physiologically retuning their nervous system toward safety.
When our nervous systems experience safety they are open to possibility.
Where to from here?
For more information about the SSP program or to register interest please email us enquiries@okaytherapy.com.au
