Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP)

I am a certified provider for the delivery of the Safe and Sound Protocol, SSP, created by Dr. Stephen Porges. Dr Porges is an internationally renowned trauma researcher and neuroscientist (https://www.stephenporges.com/).  

What is the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP)?  

Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) is an evidence/based listening therapy, developed and patented by Dr Stephen Porges, to reduce sound sensitivities and improve auditory processing, behavioral state regulation, and social engagement behaviors through filtered music. 

The SSP acts as a non-invasive acoustic vagal nerve stimulator, helping to retune the nervous system to better support connection, collaboration and resilience. 

https://www.whatisthessp.com/

Who may benefit from the SSP?

It is suitable for children and adults. SSP has demonstrated benefits for individuals with trauma, anxiety, sensory processing differences, depression, behavioral acting out and more. 

Highlights of the SSP:

• A 5-hour auditory intervention
• Reduces sound sensitivity, improves auditory processing and behavioral regulation.
• Activates our engagement system
• Supports physiological regulation

The Polyvagal Theory: the Science of Feeling Safe

Developed by world-renowned researcher and scientist, 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. 

Four minute video explaining the theory, process of listening, and potential outcomes: https://vimeo.com/780511352/2a026ebf6a

Caveats for the use of SSP:

As Stephen Porges has described, the SSP is a “potent” intervention. Many people experience stronger emotions for a short time as their defense mechanisms lower. A feeling of safety may not be identified as safety at first exposure when an individual has become accustomed to protective responses. There are some indications that SSP is not an appropriate intervention if the following is occurring: 

• Living in a home or work situation that is not currently safe
• Current life upheaval
• Trauma that has never been addressed in therapy
• History of disassociation
• Ongoing substance abuse
• Current self harm

If you have any questions about whether SSP would be helpful for you or a loved one, let’s talk about it and I can give you a recommendation. 

How much does the Safe and Sound Protocol cost?

For clients currently in therapy with Caren: 

The SSP program cost is $175 for clients of any age. Some of our time together will be during regular counseling sessions, which is paid separately and dependent on insurance or my self-pay scale. 

My services include the following: 

There are a minimum of four sessions with me and access to the SSP Protocol online.

• The first session will include assessment and intake information, which includes a personalized map of your autonomic nervous system and how your body responds to stress and challenges.
• Psycho education on The Polyvagal Theory and learn how to shift your body back to a state of calm and create a greater sense of wellbeing.
• An individualized listening plan designed to meet your regulation needs and goals. 
• Access to the 5-hour SSP Core playlist protocol.
• Support and co-regulation during the prescribed protocol.
• Upon completion of post-delivery assessments you will receive feedback about your listening journey and its benefits to your nervous system. 
• Access to SSP Balance protocol for 90 days to integrate and extend the benefits gained from completing SSP Core. 

For clients that request the Safe and Sound Protocol without traditional therapy with Caren:

The SSP Program cost for adults is $375. Please see the services above. 

The SSP Program cost for young children is $275. 

Delivery of the program for young children will look different. Children who are more comfortable with their parents or guardians may be best suited by delivery of the music protocol in the safety of their own homes and by their parents. I will educate and guide you all the way through the process through video calls, phone calls, texts, or email.

For more information on the SSP Protocol: https://www.whatisthessp.com/

Research and Case Studies: https://integratedlistening.com/resources/real-world-evidence/