Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP)
The Safe and Sound Protocol is an evidence-based non-invasive therapeutic tool designed to retune the nervous system and return it to safety using specially filtered music that stimulates the vagus nerve.
Our ability to hear and tune to a full range of frequencies maintains the body’s ability to be on alert or, stay calm and socially engaged in the presence of others. Calm states are required for learning, development, relationships and to maintain mood. By stimulating the vagus nerve via listening we can access a calm and grounded state that promotes safety and is conducive to well-being, positive engagement with others and growth in learning.
The Safe and Sound Protocol is an evidence-based non-invasive therapeutic tool designed to retune the nervous system and return it to safety using specially filtered music that stimulates the vagus nerve.
Our ability to hear and tune to a full range of frequencies maintains the body’s ability to be on alert or, stay calm and socially engaged in the presence of others. Calm states are required for learning, development, relationships and to maintain mood. By stimulating the vagus nerve via listening we can access a calm and grounded state that promotes safety and is conducive to well-being, positive engagement with others and growth in learning.
What is the Safe and Sound Protocol?
The Safe and Sound Protocol is a guided program of specially filtered music that sends cues of safety to retune your nervous system, which can help you feel more settled, engaged and balanced.
You can listen to the music of SSP from the comfort of your own home, allowing for flexibility and ease. We will collaborate with you on a listening plan that works for you.
For more information you can also visit What is the SSP
(external website).
What is the science behind the SSP?
Designed by clinical psychologist Dr Stephen Porges, the Safe and Sound Protocol is based on his work on Polyvagal Theory.
For more information about the research behind the SSP, including case studies, visit Integrated Learning (external website).
What are the benefits of the SSP?
By calming the nervous system, the SSP has shown a significant reduction of symptoms in the following areas:
- Social and emotional difficulties
- Anxiety
- Trauma and related challenges
- Sensory Sensitivities
- Inattention
- Hyperactivity
- Emotional Sensitivity
- Auditory processing difficulties/ sensitivities (including those caused by chronic or severe ear infections)
Following successful completion of the Safe and Sound Protocol, it is reported that individuals experience better focus in school, at work, in therapy, and in everyday life and experience a calmed emotional and physiological state. This is based on studies that suggest that skills such as attention, state regulation and the ability to engage socially will be enhanced. Individuals often see effects immediately and emerging signs of safety can continue to develop for weeks afterwards as individuals readjust to their new ‘safe’ perception of the environment.
For more information you can also visit the What is the SSP (external website).
How does it work?
Our ability to hear and tune to a full range of frequencies maintains the body’s ability to be on alert or, stay calm and socially engaged in the presence of others. Calm states are required for learning, development, relationships and to maintain mood. By stimulating the vagus nerve via listening we can access a calm and grounded state that promotes safety and is conducive to well-being, positive engagement with others and growth in learning.
The music of the SSP is unlike any other. Each track has been filtered through a patented algorithm that highlights specific sound frequencies that are like the human voice. As you listen to the music of the SSP, these highlighted frequencies send cues of safety to retune your nervous system, which can help you feel more settled, engaged and balanced.
Who is it suitable for?
The SSP is suitable for all ages, and has been completed by over 100,000 children, adolescents and adults in more than 70 countries worldwide.
How much does the Safe & Sound Protocol cost?
At Introspect Psychology, the Safe & Sound Protocol is currently facilitated by Dr Jennifer Green, Clinical Psychologist (Adults) and Emma Cameron, Clinical Psychologist (Children). The SSP includes:
- Initial Assessments and Questionnaires
- A 50-minute intake consultation during which you will have further opportunity to participate in assessment and discussion.
- During the intake, the findings from your questionnaires and assessments will be discussed and you will be consulted on the implementation of your customised 5+hour Safe and Sound Protocol listening intervention.
- Access to the 5+hour SSP Listening Intervention for one calendar month via remote delivery. Your listening will be customised and make individualised use of the SSP Connect, Core and Balance Programs.
- Regular monitoring throughout the SSP program delivery.
- Follow up assessments and reflections on your experiences
The SSP package is $500. This includes $250 for initial intake session and $250 subscription cost to access the program for 1 month.
NDIS funding and Medicare rebates may be available.
Have questions? Get in touch!
