Safe Sound Protocol (SSP)

Safe Sound Protocol (SSP)

The Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) is a therapeutic intervention developed by Dr. Stephen Porges, a neuroscientist known for his work on Polyvagal Theory. SSP is a listening programme designed to help individuals regulate their autonomic nervous system, reduce stress/anxiety, and improve social engagement. It focuses on strengthening the body’s ability to tolerate stress and connect with others in a safe and comfortable manner.

Key Concepts of the Safe and Sound Protocol:

1. Polyvagal Theory: This protocol is grounded in Dr. Porges’ Polyvagal Theory, which explains how the autonomic nervous system (ANS) regulates our physiological states. The theory highlights the role of the vagus nerve in social behaviour, stress responses, and relaxation.
2. Auditory Stimulation: SSP involves listening to specially filtered music. This music is designed to activate the vagus nerve and improve the functioning of the social engagement system, which is responsible for facial expression, vocalisation, and other forms of communication that help us connect with others. The music is often soothing and aims to engage the ear’s ability to pick up frequencies associated with human speech.
3. Regulation of the Nervous System: By listening to this carefully structured sound, SSP is intended to help individuals down-regulate their nervous systems, reducing feelings of anxiety, hyperarousal, or dissociation. This can promote a sense of safety and calmness.
4. Target Audience: The protocol is particularly helpful for individuals with challenges related to trauma, anxiety, autism, ADHD, and other conditions that impact social communication and emotional regulation. It is often used in clinical settings by trained therapists and health professionals or can be completed online either self-directed or guided by your therapist. The 5 hours are split into listening times that best suit the person and their Autonomic Nervous System.
5. Results and Benefits: Many users report improvements in their ability to focus, process emotions, and engage with others in a calm and regulated manner after going through the protocol. It’s also used to help people feel more grounded and reduce stress responses in situations where they might otherwise feel overwhelmed.

In essence, the Safe and Sound Protocol aims to create a sense of safety in the body, enhancing the individual’s capacity for social engagement, reducing anxiety, and promoting overall well-being.

For more information about SSP (Safe Sound Protocol) visit https://integratedlistening.com/products/ssp-safe-sound-protocol/

Or, if you’d like to book a consultation to see if SSP is something that can help you or your child, then please contact Orla on orla@healthbyorla.ie and we can get started.