Developed by Dr. Stephen Porges the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) is an auditory programme designed to reduce stress and auditory sensitivity while enhancing feelings of safety, connection and regulation. According to Dr. Porges’ Polyvagal Theory, when physiological and emotional state are re-tuned toward safety, the door is opened for improved communication and a greater ability to regulate and co-regulate.

Who is best suited for the SSP?
People experiencing the difficulties below may respond best to SSP:

• Social engagement difficulties
• Auditory hypersensitivities or processing disorders
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Trauma
• PTSD
• Chronic pain or chronic health issues
• Sleep issues
• Mood dysregulation
• Autism Spectrum Disorders, ADD, or ADHD
• Motion sickness
• Selective Mutism
• Sensory Processing DisorderEmotional and behavioural regulation difficulties or outbursts

How does it work?
This non- invasive intervention involves listening to music that’s been
processed to use certain frequencies of sound that specifically re-tune
the nervous system to introduce a sense of safety, decrease sensory
sensitivity, and increase the ability to socially engage.

This happens because the SSP activates the Parasympathetic branch of the Autonomic Nervous System (the rest and digest system responsible for calming and socially engaging), primarily via the very important Vagus Nerve (cranial nerve X) and helps to counteract and dampen the Sympathetic branch of the Autonomic Nervous System responsible for the stress response and fight-or-flight.

This allows the person to better listen to and interpret human speech, and importantly, to extract the emotional meaning of language. Once social interactions improve, spontaneous social behaviours and an enhanced ability to learn, self-
regulate, calm and engage are often seen.

How is the SSP delivered?
The SSP is delivered either entirely in-person with a therapist, partly in-person or online with a therapist and partly self-directed online, or exclusively self directed with check-ins and support. This differs for each user. The 5 hours are best split into listening times that best suit the person and their Autonomic Nervous System, regular contact with the therapist helps to define the duration of listening time suitable.

What happens during a listening session?
By now, your therapist will have helped you and/or your child get to know your nervous system during your introductory sessions. The tone is set for uninterrupted quiet time for listening. A calming activity of your choice is available and the therapist or co-regulator is present and ques for attending to pausing or stopping have been agreed. It’s best to avoid eating and drinking but if it is necessary, you can eat or drink as long as it does not cause noise in your ears. Headphones are placed on and the listening commences while you quietly enjoy your activity for example;
colouring, knitting or playdough.

Is the SSP for children only?
No, the SSP can be used by any individual aged 18 months and upwards.

Can I continue to use the SSP after I have completed the intervention?
Yes, with the therapists help you can choose either the Connect or Balance programme as a continued support. The Core programme can be repeated but not directly after the initial 5 hours are complete.

Learn more about this fantastic programme by clicking the links below!
Unyte iLs Safe & Sound Protocol