Safe & Sound Protocol

The Safe & Sound Protocol (SSP) is an Occupational Therapy based intervention provided at TCTCI. Therapists provide SSP at TCTCI have advanced training in listening therapy programs and have completed the SSP Training program through the Unyte Training Program. The SSP is a 5-hour non-invasive listening therapy program based on Polyvagal Theory by Dr. Stephen Porges neuroscientist. The polyvagal theory helps us understand how our nervous system automatically responds to safety and threat, influencing our behavior and emotional states. It's about how our body and mind work together to help us survive and connect with others.  The theory addresses three states of the autonomic nervous system:

• Ventral Vagal State (Safety and Connection): This is the "Green Light" state where feelings of safety, calm, connection, and social engagement are present. In this state, it is possible to learn, connect with others, and experience well-being.

• Sympathetic State (Mobilization): This is the "Yellow Light" state, also known as the "fight or flight" response to perceived danger or stress. Feelings of anxiety, agitation, and readiness to react or escape might arise

• Dorsal Vagal State (Shutdown): This is the "Red Light" state, where the body shuts down as a protective response if a threat is overwhelming or inescapable. This can manifest as numbness, dissociation, or fatigue.

The program uses specially filtered music designed to stimulate the vagus nerve and regulate the nervous system. The frequencies in the music mimics that of human speech which is why we see an increase in overall communication and social engagement with our clients. The music sends cues of safety to the nervous system, potentially improving: emotional regulation, social engagement, auditory sensitivity, and resilience and reducing stress and anxiety.

At TCTCI, the SSP sessions are completed as a 5-day OT intensive that may be completed in 1-2 weeks. During this time your child will work with a trained OT in a quiet sensory room engaging in various sensory-play based and quiet activities that your child enjoys. The goal of the therapist is to provide co-regulation support and facilitate engagement while monitoring your child’s progression on the protocol. Parents are also encouraged to engage in the session to support the relationship process. If you are interested in having your child complete the SSP Intensive, please talk with your treating therapist or call the office for more information.

**Please make sure you are under the supervision of a qualified trained therapist when using the SSP or other Listening Programs.