Safe and Sound Protocol
The Safe and Sound ProtocolTM (SSP) is a program designed to reduce stress and auditory sensitivity while enhancing social engagement and resilience.
What is the Safe and Sound Protocol and how does it work?
The protocol is made up of a curated, filtered five-hour playlist that an individual listens to over a period of sessions with the support of the therapist.
The songs of the playlist have been altered to a specific frequency that slowly engages and strengthens the inner ear muscles, allowing an individual to hear cues of safety as their nervous system moves into a regulated state.
Most individuals listen to 15-30 minutes of music each day. Depending on frequency and duration, the program could take between 5-20 days either consecutive or spread out. There are separate playlists for children and adults.
Throughout the protocol, the therapist ensures the individual’s system is not overwhelmed and that they are comfortable. The therapist and individual will determine how to best support the individual’s progress which may include listening while moving, creating art or doing another gentle activity.
Doing the SSP can restart the neural network to improve perception of the sounds of human connection. When the tone and prosody of human voice can be better processed, it can provide signals of safety and calm to the nervous system. Once a sense of safety is achieved, emotional resilience and nervous system regulation are possible. This will activate the parasympathetic nervous system and enable not only better communication, but better regulation overall.
The SSP can be completed alongside other therapy and done in-person with the therapist or an at-home plan with support from the therapist may be possible.
A calm, well-regulated nervous system helps behaviour, emotional, and sensory regulation. It also helps us to see things from a bigger picture perspective, make better decisions, and problem solve. A well regulated nervous system also enhances our access to creativity, increases focus, concentration & memory.
The SSP has been shown to be effective for individuals of all ages:
with sensory challenges
who have ADHD
who have ASD
experiencing anxiety and depression
who experience social challenges
who’ve experienced trauma
who desire a greater ability to regulate
… and more!
The Process
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Initial Session (55 min.)
Together we assess and map your nervous system and determine how your specific protocol will look. You will then take part in your first listening session.
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Listening Sessions (5 hours total)
Either with your therapist or on your own, you will listen to 15-60 minute sessions working your way through the 5 hour playlist. This may be completed over the span of 1-8 weeks.
Your therapist will check-in to monitor progress and adjust the protocol and be available as needed. -
Protocol Review Session (55 min.)
Following the completion of your listening sessions, we will meet to discuss the process, evaluate impact and determine next steps if needed.
Please keep in mind that everyone will respond differently to the protocol and as such, the protocol process may look different than what’s described above depending on your needs and your nervous system.
SSP Outcomes May Include:
— Increased communication
-Increased focus
-Decrease in auditory sensitivity
-Decrease in anxiety
-Increased frustration tolerance
-Increased social behaviours
-Stronger emotional regulation skills
-Greater ability to learn
Delivery Options
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In Office
In-person Initial Session (55 minutes)
Ten in-person listening sessions (30-45 minutes) over the span of 4-6 weeks
In-person Final Session (55 minutes)
I am present and will offer co-regulation during in-office sessions.
Investment: $1120.00-$1540.00 -
At Home with Support
In-person Initial Session (55 minutes)
listening sessions done at home.
Ongoing email support & check-ins (90 minutes)
In-person or virtual Final Session (55 minutes)
$45.00 per month for access to protocol portal
Investment: $552.50 -
Blended Approach
In-person initial session (55 minutes)
Five in-person listening sessions (30-45 minutes) over the span of 4-8 weeks
remaining sessions done at home.
In-person or virtual Final Session (55 minutes)
$45.00 per month for access to protocol portal
Investment: $750.00-$965.00 -
Add-on for therapy clients
$45.00 per month for access to protocol portal
email support and check (60 minutes)
SSP incorporated into sessions or done at home .
Investment: $190 (in addition to counselling session fees)
Are you intrigued but not sure you completely understand how the SSP works, or if it could benefit you or your child?
Send us a message with your questions or request a phone call to find out more.