SAFE AND SOUND PROTOCOL
The Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) is an evidence-based listening therapy designed to reduce sound sensitivities and improve auditory processing, behavioral state regulation, and social engagement behaviors through filtered music.
As a practical application of Polyvagal Theory, the SSP acts as a non-invasive, acoustic vagal nerve stimulator, helping to re-tune the nervous system to better support connection, collaboration and resilience. By learning to regulate our nervous system, we can change how we connect with ourselves and to the world around us.
The SSP involves listening to specially filtered music through headphones alongside a provider, in-person or remotely. Suitable for children and adults. The SSP has demonstrated benefits for individuals with trauma, anxiety, sensory processing differences and more.
HIGHLIGHTS OF THE SAFE AND SOUND PROTOCOL:
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A five-hour auditory intervention developed and patented by Dr. Stephen Porges, author of the Polyvagal Theory.
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Designed to reduce sound sensitivity, and improve auditory processing and behavioral state regulation.
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Activates the client’s social engagement system, helping to accelerate and enhance therapeutic outcomes.
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Supports physiological state regulation, allowing for greater resilience.
POLYVAGAL THEORY: THE SCIENCE OF FEELING SAFE
Developed by world-renowned researcher and Unyte’s Chief Scientific Advisor, Dr. Stephen Porges, Polyvagal Theory focuses on what is happening in the body and the nervous system, and explains how our sense of safety, danger or life-threat can impact our behavior.
Understanding Polyvagal Theory gives us a scientific framework that can be applied through physiological, or "bottom-up" therapies, to help change and improve how we feel, think and connect with others.
Based on hierarchical recruitment of the autonomic nervous system, the SSP trains the middle ear muscles to tune into cues of safety signaled by frequencies of the human voice, which stimulates the social engagement system through the neural network associated with listening. More specifically, we can rewire how our brain interprets threats and cues of safety.
YOUR ROLE:
As the listener, all that is required of you during a session is to simply listen to the music and to let your provider know of feelings or sensations, whether emotional or physical, that may arise. Your provider may also have you engage in light activity during your listening sessions, such as stretches, breathing exercises, or drawing. Be sure to stay in close communication with your provider, so they can adjust your listening plan to suit your needs.
YOUR PROVIDER'S ROLE
Your certified provider will be your guide along your SSP journey. They are trained to make sure that you are ready even before you start listening to the music, and will recommend an individualized listening plan for you. During the listening, they will monitor your progress and make sure you are not completing the program too quickly or too slowly. They will support and work with you to find the right pace and conditions for the optimal listening experience for you. If you are a parent or caregiver, you may be the primary listening partner for your child. Follow your provider’s instructions for what activities to do and how to guide your child.