Safe and Sound Protocol
Polyvagal theory; the science of feeling safe
What is the Safe and Sound Protocol? The Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) is an evidence-based listening therapy designed to reduce sound sensitivities and improve auditory processing, emotional regulation, and social engagement behaviors through filtered music.
Developed by world-renowned researcher and Unyte’s Chief Scientific Advisor, Dr. Stephen Porges, Polyvagal Theory focuses on what is happening in the body and the nervous system, and explains how our sense of safety, danger or life-threat can impact our behavior. Understanding Polyvagal Theory gives us a scientific framework that can be applied through physiological, or “bottom-up” therapies, to help change and improve how we feel, think and connect with others.
SSP acts as a non-invasive, acoustic vagal nerve stimulator, helping to re-tune the nervous system to better support connection, collaboration and resilience. SSP has demonstrated benefits for individuals with trauma, anxiety, sensory processing differences and more.
Safe and Sound listening therapy can help to accelerate your healing when combined with talk therapy and/ or other modalities, such as brainspotting. As safe and sounds brings your ventral vagal nervous state more online, you become more open to connection, healing and change. Safe and sound can also be used as a supplement to regulate you between sessions, or as a self care tool on going.
Benefits of using Safe and Sound: The time it takes to see results from the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) varies from person to person, and can range from immediately to several weeks after the program ends.
Reduced anxiety and depression: By calming the body's "fight or flight" response, SSP can lessen feelings of anxiety, worry, and depression.
Improved sleep: Adults often report improved sleep quality and duration after using SSP.
Increased social engagement: Some adults note feeling more interested in social interaction, better able to pick up social cues, and more comfortable making eye contact after SSP sessions.
Support for sensory processing: For adults with sensory processing challenges, SSP can help better integrate sensory input and reduce sensitivities to certain sounds making it easier to focus.
Boosted immunity: Early research suggests SSP may support immune function by reducing inflammation.
Enhanced learning: By calming the body and promoting focus, SSP creates better conditions for adults to learn and acquire new skills more easily.
Increased self-regulation: Adults may find it easier to self-soothe, moderate emotional reactions, and make thoughtful choices after using SSP.
Improved relationships: With increased social engagement, self-regulation, and empathy, SSP can help improve relationship skills for adults.
What To Expect
The SSP is typically administered over a series of listening sessions. These sessions can be done with a provider present either in person or remote, or independently. You and your provider will determine what might be the best fit for you. Supported sessions are 1 hour or 30 minutes and independent sessions are up to 30 minutes. Supported sessions include autonomic mapping and check in, psycho-education, technical set up, listening with co regulation and grounding at the end. Every client is required to do at least 1 in person listening session to begin. You and your provider will determine the frequency and duration of the listening that is best for you. It is recommended to complete the full 5 hour program to maximize its benefits, and the program can be repeated multiple times if desired. SSP requires use of over-the-ear headphones that do not have active noise-cancelling or enhanced bass features.
Listening to music: The SSP involves listening to specially filtered music through headphones. The full protocol includes 5 hours of music. Everyone progresses through the protocol in their own timeframe as each nervous system is different. The music is generally relaxing and follows a specific pattern to activate the vagus nerve. You will get to chose your music preference as part of your program set up.
Regulating Activities: Clients will be invited in regulating activities while they are engaged in their listening session. These activities may include, mindful breathing, guided visualization, or gentle movement just to name a few. Co-regulation with your provider is an important part of the delivery of SSP and supports optimal results.
Notice Changes: Clients are asked to notice emotional and physiological changes during the listening session as well as in between sessions. This changes are evidence that the nervous system is changing how it functions.
Monitoring: Your provider will monitor and make changes to your program with supported or independent listening and check in with you via email about what you notice.
Possible Challenges: Some clients report mild headaches, tinnitus, and increased irritability/emotionality. If these things occur, they are mild, temporary and manageable.
Katie Dolinsky, LMFT is a certified Unyte Safe and Sound protocol provider.
Listening Options and Cost Safe and Sound Supportive Listening Sessions
Initial intake and supportive listening session- $160 ( Required to begin)
Supportive listening sessions - 1 hour- $160
Supportive listening sessions- 30 min. - $80
These sessions can be billed to OON benefits for potential reimbursement.
Access to Safe and Sound listening platform
Access to Safe and Sound listening platform for 1 year - $350
Access to Safe and Sound listening platform for 6 months - $175
With this access you will be able to listen both in a supported session or independently. You can repeat the program as often as you want within that years time.
You may be able to use your HSA or FSA card to pay for this platform.
On going monitoring and tailoring of listening program
Whether you choose in person, remote or independent listening, your provider will monitor your progress, send weekly emails to check in and make adjustments to your program as needed. This cost is included with access to the platform.