TK Therapy Solutions PLLC is now offering the Safe and Sound Protocol
What is SSP?
Developed by Dr. Stephen Porges, known for his groundbreaking Polyvagal Theory, the Safe and Sound Protocol is an evidence based acoustic intervention designed to help regulate the autonomic nervous system by activating the vagus nerve via the middle ear muscles.
Regulating the vagus nerve has been scientifically proven to help
Shift our system into "rest and digest"
Improve relationships
Access feelings of safety and connection
Reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety, and chronic symptoms
Feel less stressed
And more . . .
SSP helps with many symptoms and conditions
The SSP can be helpful in reducing symptoms and supporting overall health and resiliency for people seeking support for:
Depression and anxiety
Neurodevelopmental differences, such as autism, hyperactivity and attention
Learning difficulties
Sensory processing differences
Trauma history
And much more!
Reduce stress
Improve mood
Find pleasure in living
Reduce unwanted symptoms
Release muscle tension
Live healthier (with nervous system regulation, comes better immune modulation)
Repair and strengthen relationships
Engage in more satisfying social interactions
Begin your trauma healing journey
Build resilience
Improve communication skills
Enhance the work of other therapy modalities
Focus and learn
. . . just to name a few
There is no hard and fast set time for completing the SSP. It is better to take your time through the process than to rush through it, as getting to the end sooner rather than later will not ensure quicker gains or a different outcome. Better results will come from taking your time and being tuned in. You do not want to "push through" any discomfort just to get to the end. Some people may listen for 10 minutes every day; Some may listen for 15 or 20 minutes daily. Some people need a more titrated approach with a couple of minutes per listening session. The average time from start to finish is 4-6 weeks.
You purchase your own over-the-ear headphones (as seen in the images on this page). You may use headphones that you already have, as long as they are not noise-canceling (or if they are, the noise canceling feature can be turned off).
Download the app on your device (phone or tablet).
The chosen music of the Safe and Sound Protocol will be downloaded through the app.
I guide you through the journey. You will listen to a total of 5 hours of music (not all at one time!) that is specifically filtered to stimulate the middle ear muscles. We can discuss how to split up your listening sessions so that it is comfortable for you.
You can complete the intervention in the comfort of your own home, or in my office, or a combination of both!
Some people may be appropriate for independent listening, depending on their presenting problems, coping skills, and their available support system. Regular check in with the therapist will still be required.
SSP is not recommended for the following:
People with active psychosis
Active or uncontrolled seizures
Active tinnitus
People who intentionally self-harm or actively report suicidal ideation
Individuals living in an unsafe environment
Individuals lacking a healthy support system
SSP should be used with caution in the following cases:
Conditions related to the structures of the ear
Bipolar, Borderline Personality Disorder, Dissociative Disorders and developmental trauma
Complex medical issues such as autoimmune, neurological, and chronic issues
*Clients may require medical clearance before proceeding with SSP
SSP Pricing
Pricing varies depending on client needs. Factors to consider include client complexity, symptom severity, and clinically appropriate delivery of the SSP to ensure that the therapy is delivered safely and effectively. Since SSP is not psychotherapy, it is generally not reimbursed by insurance.
The base price of SSP is $350, which covers the intake assessment (required), access to the program for 12 months, educational materials, email check-ins Monday through Friday, and therapist's monitoring time. Additional fees may apply if the client requires one-on-one listening time supported by the therapist. This will be discussed in advance and you will not be charged without notice.
*The therapist reserves the right to suspend access to SSP if the client is not following clinical instructions for use. This is for the client's safety and well-being.
* Fees are non-refundable
*Pathways:
SSP Connect: Unfiltered music, allowing the listener to acclimate to the listening process. This is considered a "warm-up" phase to assess the individual's tolerance.
SSP Core: Most significant level of sound filtration, designed to actively stimulate the vagus nerve. This is considered the "workout" phase with the most therapeutic impact.
SSP Balance: Lighter filtration than Core, intended to maintain the calming effects achieved during the Core phase. This is used to extend the benefits of the SSP program with a less intense listening experience.