The Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) is a listening program from Unyte Health that uses specially filtered music to support nervous system regulation. SSP is based on research related to the Polyvagal Theory, and is based on research designed to help people become more available for connection, learning, and participation in therapy and everyday activities.
Clients listen to specially filtered music through headphones while following an individualized listening plan guided by a trained provider. The program can be completed in the clinic, at home through the Unyte Health app, or through a combination of both, depending on the individual’s needs.
If you’d like to learn more about how the Safe and Sound Protocol may support the client, contact us today to speak with our team.
How Does the Safe and Sound Protocol Work?
Our nervous system is constantly taking in information from the world around us, including sounds, voices, facial expressions, movement, and other sensory experiences.
For some children, the nervous system may respond to everyday experiences as overwhelming or unsafe. This can make it harder to regulate emotions, tolerate sounds, connect with others, or participate in learning and therapy.
SSP uses specially filtered music designed to highlight particular sound frequencies. According to Unyte, the program is intended to support autonomic nervous system regulation and auditory processing, helping the nervous system respond more effectively to cues from the environment.
What Does SSP Look Like at Skills on the Hill?
Every person’s experience is different, so SSP is not a one-size-fits-all program.
Our team begins by learning about the client’s needs and determining whether SSP may be appropriate. Clients receive education about the program and an individualized listening plan. Listening can take place through the Unyte Health app at home or with support in the clinic.
Throughout the program, your SOTH provider monitors responses and adjusts the listening experience as needed.
SSP is designed to complement your child’s existing therapy and supports rather than replace them. At Skills on the Hill, we see it as another tool that may help build a stronger foundation for participation in occupational therapy, physical therapy, speech therapy, and everyday life.
Who May Benefit from SSP?
Some individuals have a harder time filtering sounds, managing sensory input, regulating their emotions, or feeling settled enough to fully participate in everyday activities.
SSP may be considered for people experiencing:
- Auditory or sound sensitivity
- Sensory processing differences
- Challenges with self-regulation or emotional regulation
- Anxiety or frequent fight-or-flight responses
- Auditory processing challenges
- Difficulty with social engagement and connection
- Autism and other neurodevelopmental differences
- Difficulty becoming regulated enough to participate fully in therapy or daily routines
Frequently Asked Questions About SSP
Have questions about the Safe and Sound Protocol? We’ve put together a helpful FAQ guide covering how the program works, who may benefit, pricing, and what families need to get started.
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