Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP)
Research Based Listening Therapy
Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) is a 5-day listening protocol developed to improve social engagement and resilience. Based on more than 20 years of research by Dr. Stephen Porges on Polyvagal Theory, SSP is meant to complement and enhance the impact of more traditional forms of therapy. SSP has been shown to have significant effects on the following areas:
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Anxiety and trauma-related challenges
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Social and emotional difficulties
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Auditory sensitivities
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Inattention
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Stressors that impact social engagement
SSP was initially developed to help reduce distress for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder, but has since shown to provide relief for those experiencing a variety of challenges including stress, anxiety, trauma, sleep-related problems, behavior and self-regulation skills, social and emotional difficulties, and attention and executive functioning deficits.
For a better understanding of what the Safe and Sound Protocol is, what it helps with and how it works, watch the video below created by Nicole Hargreaves at Abundant Life Natural Health.
What to Expect
SSP is delivered virtually allowing you to listen within the comfort of your own home. Participants wear noise-canceling headphones connected to their phone/tablet. The SSP app plays specially produced music that is monitored by your provider. During the protocol, clients may sit quietly or participate in quiet activities such as puzzles or drawing. Parents of youth clients join their children and are expected to help create a safe nurturing environment for their child. Adult clients may choose to have a safe person with them or to engage in the treatment in the company of the therapist or on their own.
Prior to scheduling the SSP, all clients must attend a 50-minute intake session to determine if SSP is right for them. Due to the importance of a safe and supportive environment, clients may need to be actively engaged with a therapist (through Willow Grove or an outside provider). For some, especially those with a history of complex trauma, it is recommended that the protocol be delivered in shorter segments over a longer period of time. Your provider will work with you to ensure a treatment plan that is as safe and effective as possible.
Testimonials
Parent testimonial for a child diagnosed with Autism, Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, RAD, ADHD
Adult Testimonials: