Book Recommendation: Safe and Sound

March 3, 2025

With a unique application of sound technology to heal trauma and attachment wounds, Paula Scatoloni, LCSW, SEP is one of several therapists offering case studies on their unique approach to using sound technology in the book, Safe and Sound.

Safe and Sound, Published by Sounds True

A groundbreaking protocol from Polyvagal Theory pioneer Dr. Stephen Porges, highlighting real-life stories of transformation and healing.

The nervous system impacts daily well-being, to your benefit or detriment. Understanding how may be the key to better supporting the challenges that have been holding you back. The Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) is a groundbreaking listening therapy based in Polyvagal Theory (PVT), which looks at the role the autonomic nervous system and vagus nerve play in regulating health and behavior. Resetting the nervous system to its homeostatic state with SSP is the lock, waiting to be opened.

Porges and Onderko offer a glimpse into this innovative approach, highlighting not only the origin of SSP and its best practices, but also real-life stories of transformation and healing. The book showcases clinical evidence demonstrating SSP’s impact on emotional dysregulation, social engagement difficulty, and even auditory sensitivity, providing a comprehensive understanding of its therapeutic potential. Case studies and stories cover a range of topics, including depression, perfectionism, addiction, COVID recovery, navigating gender identity, living with Parkinson’s disease, autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and more.

Illustrating the incredible range of application and how autonomic regulation can lead to significant improvements—from stress and anxiety to grief and trauma—Safe and Sound demonstrates how SSP can promote a state of safety and calm, facilitating the foundation for long-awaited healing.

Authors:

Stephen W. Porges, PhD, is author of The Polyvagal Theory and creator of SSP. He is professor of psychiatry at the University of North Carolina and Distinguished University Scientist at Indiana University, where he is founding director of the Traumatic Stress Research Consortium. He lives in Atlantic Beach, Florida. More at stephenporges.com.

Karen Onderko, a cofounder of Polyvagal Institute, helped transition the Safe and Sound Protocol from the research lab to clinical practice, collaborating with Dr. Stephen Porges and providers to evolve its guidelines, training, and resources.

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