We are thrilled to introduce the Safe and Sound Protocol to our services!
This evidence-based therapeutic tool is specifically used to reset the nervous system, fostering a sense of safety and calm. Designed to complement other therapeutic modalities, the SSP utilizes specially filtered music to stimulate the vagus nerve.
Appropriate for both children and adults, the Safe and Sound Protocol has shown promising results for individuals coping with trauma, anxiety, sensory processing issues, autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, chronic health issues, and many other conditions.
What is Safe and Sound Protocol?
At times, conventional Talk Therapy or Play Therapy may not feel safe or accessible to everyone, particularly those who struggle to articulate their feelings or experiences. In such instances, interventions targeting the nervous system offer a promising starting point. In our stress-laden world, the nervous system plays a pivotal role in shaping our responses and actions under pressure. Prolonged stress can cloud our thinking, hinder emotional regulation, and make seeking help seem daunting, even when it's most needed.
The Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) is a result of Dr. Stephen Porges’ forty years of research on the relationship between the autonomic nervous system, auditory sensitivities and social emotional processes. The SSP is a five-hour sound-based intervention that has been found to calm physiological and emotional states. It was designed to reduce stress and auditory sensitivity and enhance social engagement and resilience by stimulating nervous system regulation. This is accomplished by exercising and systematically challenging the auditory system with specifically processed or filtered music.
Click the above video to hear why Safe & Sound Protocol is beneficial.
Who can benefit from SSP
SSP is a music-based intervention that can address dysregulation caused by Sensory Processing Disorders, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorders, sleep disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorders, misophonia, and other factors that cause an overactive or underactive emotional state. By reducing auditory sensitivities and improving the ability to process human speech, the goal of SSP is to calm the autonomic nervous system so that the child or adult can become more social, engaged, and responsive to their own emotional needs. Other benefits may include improved digestion, improved sleep, and improved vocal tone.
SSP is successfully integrated into a wide variety of therapies and programs. It can include programs that improve cognitive, language and social abilities. As our brain/body connection becomes more organized, we better process the world around us and become more confident, happy and engaged.
SSP is also used to help children move through major transitions (such as starting school, moving, going on vacation) and prepare for participation in other therapeutic interventions.
What to Expect
The SSP Core was originally designed to be delivered over 5 consecutive days for one hour per day. However, each individual is unique and we adjust the delivery of the SSP to best suit each individual client. Depending on your life experiences and/or sensitivities or if you have experienced trauma, we suggest a few minutes, with the goal of 30 minutes or one hour of listening per session. Sessions could be scheduled daily, weekly or any other timing that best supports your nervous system.
While listening, participants can engage in quiet activities such as colouring, modeling clay, drawing, puzzles, card games, etc. Participants may choose to simply sit quietly and listen to the music but some type of quiet activity with the hands supports the process. Rhythmic movement (rocking chair, hammock, swing) can also help sooth and help you stay regulated during the listening.
Research has shown significant results with just five hours of intervention in the following areas:
Auditory sensitivities
Social and emotional difficulties
Anxiety and trauma-related challenges
Inattention
Stressors that impact social engagement
Potential Risks
The SSP is not a passive intervention. Shifts are happening within the autonomic nervous system and the vagal nerve complex. Sometimes shifts are subtle and other times, big changes occur. Not every change is comfortable at first. Some may experience temporary discomfort such as gastrointestinal symptoms (ex., bowel changes or gas), an uptick in strong emotions or auditory sensitivity for a short time. In part, this is because the interventions are “changing” the nervous system into a more settled state, but because this “feels” different, it can be disorienting. It is quite common to feel physically tired during and after the intervention, so getting adequate rest is very helpful. As time passes, you should settle into the new, calmer state.
There may be other risks that cannot be predicted. This is why having a trained therapist as a support is very important as they can offer guidance and co-regulation support during the entire listening process.
If you experience any adverse effects between sessions, please contact your therapist immediately.
Harvest now offers digital delivery of the SSP
The Unyte-iLs app makes the SSP program easily accessible because it can be downloaded on any smartphone or tablet and used with over-the-ear headphones. This enables you to access the SSP intervention in your own home with remote support. We customize the protocol for your individual needs, offering a more gradual introduction to the program and extended services when needed. Your emotional well-being and listening behavior is tracked at Harvest Counseling & Wellness and your schedule can easily be modified when needed.
Final Thoughts
While the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) can be effective for many individuals, it is not a one-size-fits-all solution and may not be suitable for everyone. It's crucial to work with a qualified and licensed therapist trained in the SSP to determine if it aligns with your needs.
The Safe and Sound Protocol is a valuable and impactful form of therapy—it truly makes a difference. It provides individuals with a unique opportunity to regulate their nervous system and boost emotional well-being. By engaging in specially filtered music, individuals can find new ways to cope with challenging emotions and situations. The SSP can be tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual and can complement other forms of therapy.
If you believe that the Safe and Sound Protocol may benefit you or your child, please reach out to our office to learn more.
More resources
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