Safe & Sound Protocol
The Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) is an evidence-based listening therapy designed to reduce sound sensitivities and improve auditory processing, behavioral state regulation, and social engagement behaviors through filtered music.
As a practical application of Polyvagal Theory, the SSP acts as a non-invasive, acoustic vagal nerve stimulator, helping to re-tune the nervous system to better support connection, collaboration and resilience.
The SSP involves listening to specially filtered music through headphones alongside a provider, in-person or remotely. Suitable for children and adults, the SSP has demonstrated benefits for individuals with trauma, anxiety, sensory processing differences and more.
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The Safe & Sound Protocol (SSP) is the only practical application of Polyvagal Theory, and is designed to improve sound sensitivities and auditory processing, behavioral state regulation, and social engagement behaviors through specially-filtered music.
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The SSP allows for the repatterning of neural networks and improved regulation of the autonomic nervous system (ANS) for lasting change.
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Based on hierarchical recruitment of the ANS, the SSP trains the middle ear muscles to tune-in to cues of safety signaled by the frequencies of human voice, which stimulates the social engagement system through the neural network associated with listening.
How it Works
Who can benefit from SSP?
The SSP is suitable for children and adults, and has been designed to work with a diverse variety of therapeutic approaches and modalities. Its effectiveness has been proven in a wide range of studies including clinical trials involving children with Autism Spectrum Disorder, along with numerous case studies demonstrating effectiveness with emotional regulation, trauma, anxiety and more.
What should you expect when doing SSP?
Individuals who are interested in the SSP program must first meet with one of our providers to determine if SSP is appropriate based on your needs. At this meeting your provider will help you determine which setting (at home or in session) and which playlist are the most appropriate for your needs. Your provider will also discuss all of the risk and benefits, potential side effects, and instructions for completing the program.
How much does the SSP program cost?
SSP at Home: $300 for 3 months of access to the SSP playlist. This cost does not include the initial assessment meeting that is required. The cost of the initial assessment meeting varies based on the individual’s insurance coverage.
SSP In Session: Varies. Clients who would benefit from completing SSP in session, may be able to utilize their insurance coverage. This will be discussed during your initial assessment meeting.
Do I have to be an active client at Abegglen Counseling?
How do I get started?
No, you do not have to be an active client in order to do SSP. However, depending on your needs, we may suggest completing SSP in session with a provider, versus at home, which may mean you will need to be placed on our waitlist. This will be discussed at your initial assessment meeting.
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To get started, feel out the contact form below and indicate in the message section that you are interested in SSP.