Safe and Sound Protocol
(SSP) for Children
As parents, you know just how vital social connections are for your child's happiness and well-being.
Our children's nervous systems are constantly seeking cues of safety from those around them - through body language, facial expressions, and tone of voice.
However, some children may struggle to interpret these cues effectively, often due to past experiences or unique ways of processing information. This can lead to misunderstandings, making it difficult for them to connect with others in meaningful ways. Understanding this can help you provide the support they need to foster those essential connections with friends and family.
The Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) is an innovative and effective listening therapy designed specifically for children.
By utilizing filtered music, the SSP aims to enhance auditory processing, reduce sound sensitivities, and improve social engagement. This protocol is rooted in Polyvagal Theory, acting as a non-invasive acoustic vagal nerve stimulator that helps retune the nervous system, fostering better connection, collaboration, and resilience.
The Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) can assist with a variety of symptoms and conditions, promoting emotional regulation and overall well-being.
Depression
Helps alleviate feelings of sadness and hopelessness.
Anxiety
Reduces anxiety symptoms and fosters a sense of calm.
Neurodevelopmental Differences
Supports individuals with autism and other developmental conditions.
Hyperactivity and Attention Issues
Aids children and adults with ADHD in improving focus and impulse control.
Learning Difficulties
Enhances learning experiences by addressing sensory processing challenges.
Sensory Processing Differences
Eases sensitivities to sensory inputs, creating a more comfortable environment.
Trauma History
Provides support for individuals with past trauma, facilitating healing and emotional regulation.
Social Connection Challenges
Encourages better social interactions and relationships.
SSP Works with Other Therapies
The SSP can also be combined with and is supportive of various other therapies, enhancing their effectiveness, including occupational therapy, play therapy, and sensory integration therapy.
By integrating SSP with these approaches, individuals can build resilience and improve their overall quality of life, creating a comprehensive support system tailored to their unique needs.
Research Insights
The Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) is a research-based therapy designed to benefit both children and adults. Initial studies primarily focused on its effectiveness for children and adolescents diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). However, recent findings suggest that the SSP may also be advantageous for children facing mental health challenges, learning difficulties, ADHD, or a history of trauma.
Research indicates that children often experience the most significant improvements in the areas where they previously faced the greatest difficulties. Moreover, those who engaged in additional therapies or support services alongside the SSP demonstrated even greater enhancements and more substantial reductions in their challenges.
Expected Benefits of the SSP
The SSP can significantly impact how your child interacts with the world. While some benefits may be noticeable early on, others may take up to six weeks after the core listening sessions to fully manifest. Here are some positive changes to look out for:
Increased Calmness
Noticeable reduction in anxiety and a more relaxed demeanor in various situations.
Better Emotional Expression
Improved ability to articulate feelings and emotions appropriately.
Enhanced Social Interactions
More frequent and positive engagement with peers and adults, including better eye contact and communication.
Improved Focus and Attention
Greater ability to concentrate during tasks or activities, particularly in school settings.
Reduced Sensory Sensitivities
A decrease in adverse reactions to loud noises or crowded environments.
Greater Resilience
Enhanced ability to cope with stressors or challenges without becoming overwhelmed.
Improved Behavioral Regulation
Fewer outbursts or emotional dysregulation episodes, leading to more stable behavior.
Increased Participation in Activities
More willingness to join in group activities or new experiences.
SSP Sessions with Me
Initial Appointment
To begin the process, I will set up an initial appointment with you, the parent or caretaker. During this session, we will:
- Discuss your child's unique experiences and needs
- Explore how the SSP can assist them
- Review your child's nervous system tendencies and how they interact with yours and others in their environment
- Determining how many sessions required with me before listening at home
If there are additional caregivers involved, I may ask for permission to communicate with them to ensure coordinated care.
Listening Sessions
After our initial discussion, we will create a plan for your child's first listening session, including:
- Setting the appropriate volume
- Determining the session length
- Guidance on co-regulation techniques to support your child
Following the first listening experience, I will request feedback within 24 hours to assess any initial observations. We will use this feedback to develop a plan for subsequent sessions, adjusting timing and frequency as needed, and monitoring your child's nervous system regulation throughout the process.
Ages Supported
Children from 5 years and older
Session Fee
SSP Protocol: $200
SSP Package: $650
(includes three one-on-one sessions and Unyte App rental)
Unyte App Rental: $100 (available after the initial protocol)
Referral
No referral required
Cancellation Policy
24 hours notice required or the full fee applies
Booking
Use the Book Now link to schedule your first appointment.
You may also book a free 15-minute consultation if you would like to connect first.
Get Started Today
If you’re interested in learning more about the Safe and Sound Protocol and how it can benefit your child, please contact me to schedule an initial appointment. Together, we can create a tailored plan to enhance your child's well-being and social engagement.
Free Resources on SSP
Infographic: Principles of Polyvagal Theory
This neat inforgraphic helps us understand how we engage in and interact with the world.
Supporting Your Child Beyond the SSP
The SSP opens the gateway to a greater sense of safety and social engagement. To cement these gains, it’s essential for caregivers and family members to:
- Provide consistent co-regulating responses
- Encourage social interactions
- Recognize and support the new behaviors that may emerge
This information includes proprietary content about the Safe and Sound Protocol, used with permission from Unyte Health Inc., leading provider of evidence-based listening therapies for nervous system regulation. Image and videos courtesy of Unyte Health. Learn more at unyte.com.