Lonely Mountain Therapy
Explore with courage, curiosity, and compassion
What is the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP)?
The Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) is an evidence-based listening therapy designed to reduce sound sensitivities, improve auditory processing, and enhance social engagement. It uses specially filtered music to help regulate the nervous system and promote a sense of safety and connection.
Developed by Dr. Stephen Porges, author of Polyvagal Theory, the SSP is a non-invasive, acoustic vagus nerve stimulator that helps “retune” the nervous system, allowing individuals to better handle life’s challenges and improve their capacity for collaboration and resilience.
Cost Information for SSP Integration
At Lonely Mountain Therapy I offer the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) as part of an integrated approach to healing and nervous system regulation. SSP uses specially filtered music delivered through the Unyte Health mobile app to help calm the nervous system and support emotional resilience.
Private-Pay SSP Packages
For clients paying privately, pricing is based on the time spent in therapy using or integrating SSP plus 12 months of app access. In most cases the access fee is equal to your therapy fee.
Sample Package Estimate (based on my $130 per hour rate):
- 5 hours of therapy/integration: $650
- App access for 12 months: $130
Flexible payment options are available and a discount may be offered for those paying ahead. I also offer family and household packages. I currently use SimplePractice for all private-pay billing and Zoom for telehealth sessions. Please contact me to discuss a custom plan.
For Clients Using Insurance or EAP Through Headway
If you are receiving therapy through insurance or an EAP via Headway, SSP may be used briefly during your covered therapy sessions (typically 5 to 15 minutes) at no additional charge. If you desire full remote access to SSP outside of your insured sessions, this service must be arranged as a separate private‐pay plan using the same pricing model.
For Clients Using BetterHelp
SSP is not integrated with the BetterHelp platform. If you are working with me through BetterHelp and are interested in SSP, we can discuss private‐pay options separately.
OpenPath and Sliding Scale Options
I also offer SSP through OpenPath and provide sliding scale pricing for qualifying clients. In these cases, the pricing formula remains similar with the access fee generally equal to your therapy fee, and the overall package is adjusted to ensure affordability. Please contact me for more details if you are interested.
Technology and Licensing
I maintain an active Unyte subscription that includes 25 client licenses per year, with each license providing 12 months of app access. If additional licenses are needed, there is a $25 fee per extra client. I reserve the right to adjust SSP offerings based on licensing and business needs.
For more details or to schedule a consultation to explore how SSP can support your healing journey, please contact me.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the SSP customizable?
Yes. Program delivery can be customized, and not all clients need to follow the exact listening order. The pathways and playlists allow for an individualized treatment plan.
What is the duration of each listening session?
Clients can listen at their own pace. Sessions can be as short as one minute, depending on autonomic response. Guidance is provided in SSP training.
Can the SSP be repeated?
Yes, but it should not be used continuously over time. Some providers report benefits in repeating the program under safe guidelines.
Is vocal music more impactful than non-vocal music?
No, both types of music are filtered with the same evidence-based algorithm and are equally effective.
Will there be more playlists?
Yes, Unyte plans to release additional SSP playlists this year.
Can clients switch playlists during SSP?
Yes. The filtration is the same across all playlists within a given pathway, allowing for flexibility in selection.
How do I choose the right playlist for me?
Your therapist will help determine the most suitable playlist based on your listening preferences and therapeutic needs.
What should I do if I experience discomfort during SSP?
If you feel uncomfortable at any point, inform your therapist immediately. Adjustments to volume or playlist may be made to enhance your comfort.
Headphones
The SSP is primarily designed to be delivered through over-the-ear headphones. These maximize vagus nerve stimulation and provide an immersive listening experience.
Recommendations
- Over-ear headphones for optimal results.
- Unyte’s headphone recommendations are available and recommended.
- Bluetooth headphones may be used with minimal distance from the device.
What to Avoid
- Noise-canceling headphones unless the feature is turned off.
- On-ear headphones and earbuds, which provide limited vagus nerve input.
Precautions
While the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) can be highly effective, it’s not suitable for every circumstance. In alignment with Unyte’s guidelines and trauma-informed practice, the following factors may indicate that SSP should be postponed or avoided. Your safety and emotional well-being are our highest priority.
When SSP May Not Be Advisable
-
Pending Medical or Dental Procedures:
Wait until after procedures are finished so you can focus on SSP without interruption. -
Unstable or Unsafe Living Environment:
A secure, stable setting is essential. If your environment is currently unsafe, addressing that comes first. -
Unresolved Significant Trauma:
It’s vital to have proper trauma support. Without a qualified therapist, SSP can bring up emotions that are difficult to manage alone. -
Lack of Day-to-Day Stability:
SSP requires a consistent routine for best results. If your schedule or living situation is unpredictable, consider waiting until it stabilizes. -
Recent Major Life Stressors:
Events like bereavement, divorce, or job loss can heavily impact emotional capacity. Processing these first may be more beneficial. -
Insufficient Support System:
Emotional and physiological shifts can occur during SSP. Having friends, family, or other supports in place helps you manage these changes.
If you’re unsure about whether SSP is right for your current situation, we’re here to help. Please reach out to our team at Lonely Mountain Therapy to discuss any questions or concerns.
SSP Pathways
The Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) consists of three pathways designed to help regulate the autonomic nervous system through specifically filtered music.
SSP Connect
SSP Connect provides full-spectrum, unfiltered music to gently introduce clients to the SSP. It is often used to assess listening sensitivity and create a sense of familiarity.
SSP Core
SSP Core is the most therapeutically impactful pathway, using progressively filtered music to shift the nervous system from a defensive state to a place of safety.
SSP Balance
SSP Balance extends and maintains the benefits of SSP Core with lighter filtration, allowing clients to continue their nervous system regulation.
SSP Pathways Infographics
SSP Playlists
The SSP offers multiple curated playlists to support a variety of listening preferences and client needs.
Original
A collection of contemporary songs from the 1970s to present, offering familiar, engaging music.
Wonder
Playful, familiar vocal and non-vocal songs designed to appeal to younger listeners but enjoyable for all ages.
Groove
A diverse mix of instrumental and vocal pop/rock songs with relaxing percussive beats, curated by Jim Donovan, M.Ed.
Groove (Instrumental)
An instrumental-only version of Groove, featuring relaxing beats without lyrics.
Freely
Original instrumental, ambient fusion music composed by neuroscientist Dr. AZA Stephen Allsop, MD, Ph.D.
Classical Flow
A non-vocal playlist featuring curated classical music selections, primarily Mozart, for their calming and fluid qualities.
SSP Playlists Infographics
Explore the Official SSP Music Playlists
For official details and full access to SSP music samples, visit the Unyte website: SSP Music Page.
SSP Resources
We’ve curated resources to help you explore and get started with the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP). These tools provide in-depth insights into how SSP works, who it’s for, and how it can help you or your loved ones.
For more Unyte videos, please visit Unyte’s YouTube channel.
Ways to Listen to the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP)
The SSP offers flexible listening options to accommodate different client needs.
1. In-Person Sessions
SSP can be administered in a clinic or office setting, allowing real-time adjustments and co-regulation support.
2. Remote Delivery
Clients can access SSP remotely through video calls, enabling them to experience the benefits from home.
3. Outdoor Sessions
Some providers integrate SSP into outdoor therapy, combining listening with movement and nature-based interventions.
4. Incorporating Gentle Activities
4. Incorporating Gentle Activities Pairing SSP with calming activities like puzzles, painting, or relaxing with a pet enhances regulation and engagement. In person at Lonely Mountain Therapy, we have coloring books, drawing materials, fidgets, puzzles, and more for gentle activities. While video games are not recommended during SSP, some individuals may find that gentle, cozy games help with focus and engagement if needed. If using a game, it should be played with the sound off to ensure SSP remains the primary auditory focus. Games like Stardew Valley, Journey, Abzû, and A Short Hike provide low-stress, visually soothing experiences that can complement the regulation process. However, non-screen activities remain the most effective choice for pairing with SSP. .
For more details, visit: Ways to Listen to SSP
Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) Certified 🌟
Let’s embark on a journey to inner peace and resilience using the power of sound. ‘Until we reach our destination, upward over the mountain.’ -Iron & Wine
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