Safe Sound Protocol
The SSP, formerly known as “The Listening Project Protocol” is based on more than 40 years of research investigating relationships between the autonomic nervous system and social-emotional processes.
Developed by Dr. Stephen Porges, the originator of The Polyvagal Theory (1995, 1997, 1998, 2001, 2003, 2007), SSP is an auditory intervention designed to reduce stress and auditory sensitivity while enhancing social engagement and resilience.
Based on Dr. Porges’ Polyvagal Theory, the program is derived from nearly four decades of research on the relationship between the autonomic nervous system and social- emotional processes. It is designed to stimulate nervous system regulation by exercising systematically challenging the auditory system with specifically processed music.
The music used in SSP trains the auditory pathways by focusing on the frequency envelope of human speech. As your ANS learns to process these speech-related frequencies, it improves the functioning of cranial nerves that are important for promoting overall social behavior.
Cranial Nerve VII (Facial Nerve) helps clients focus on human voice and tune out irrelevant frequencies.
Cranial Nerve X (Vagus Nerve) enables self-soothing and autonomic regulation.
The SSP is a research-based therapy showing significant results in the following areas:
- Social and emotional difficulties
- Auditory sensitivities
- Anxiety and trauma related challenge
- Depression and sense of disconnection
- Inattention
- Stressors that impact social engagement
- Improvement with functional medical issues such as IBS
SSP is not a stand alone therapy but is a platform for other types of treatment.
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