Safe and Sound Protocol
What is the SSP?
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 retune 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.
Potential Benefits May Include…
Increased feelings of calmness
Less easily stressed
Reduced anxiety, especially social anxiety
Decreased panic, fears and phobias
Improved assertiveness and self-protectiveness
Increased facial flexibility and expressiveness
Improved comprehension
Improved processing speed
Improved organization
Easier to overcome and tolerate challenges
Increased ability to remain regulated during face to face communication
Improved eye contact
Improved ability to read social cues
Program Highlights…
A 5-hour auditory intervention developed and patented by Dr. Stephen Porges, author of the Polyvagal Theory.
Designed to reduce sound sensitivity, and improve auditory processing and behavioral state regulation.
Activates the client’s social engagement system, helping to accelerate and enhance therapeutic outcomes.
Supports physiological state regulation, allowing for greater resilience.
Polyvagal Theory: The Science of Feeling Safe
Developed by world-renowned researcher and Unyte’s Chief Scientific Advisor, 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