Services · Listening therapy
Safe and Sound Protocol
An evidence-based intervention developed by Dr. Stephen Porges and rooted in polyvagal theory. Specially filtered music helps the nervous system settle, reduce stress and engage socially.
The Safe and Sound Protocol at Touchstone in Vernon Hills, IL is a listening therapy based on polyvagal theory that calms the nervous system.
Who it’s for
Children, teens and adults
Focus
Regulation and connection
Format
Guided listening sessions
First step
A readiness assessment
What it is
A listening therapy that calms the nervous system
SSP is designed to calm the nervous system and improve the body’s ability to connect and communicate. Specially engineered music stimulates the vagus nerve to promote a state of safety and relaxation.
Principles and process
How it works
Key principles
- Polyvagal theory: the link between the autonomic nervous system and emotional regulation
- Auditory stimulation: calibrated music filters target frequencies that calm the nervous system
- Incremental progress: structured sessions for gradual, lasting benefit
What happens in sessions
- Participants listen to the music through headphones in a quiet, comfortable setting
- Delivered in stages, each session tailored to readiness and response
- Therapists guide and monitor progress for safety and effectiveness
Benefits
What SSP supports
Emotional regulation
Less anxiety and stress, and faster recovery from emotional upsets.
Social engagement
Connecting with others with less defensiveness, and better communication.
Focus and resilience
Better attention, less sensory overwhelm, more capacity for transitions.
Trauma recovery
A sense of safety that prepares the nervous system for deeper therapeutic work.
Who it helps
Who can benefit from SSP?
The Safe and Sound Protocol suits children, adolescents and adults who experience:
- Anxiety or stress-related challenges
- Trauma or PTSD
- Sensory processing difficulties
- Emotional dysregulation
- Social or communication challenges
- Attention or focus issues
Why Touchstone
Why choose Touchstone for SSP?
We are dedicated to innovative, effective therapies like SSP. Our trained therapists:
- Assess readiness thoroughly
- Deliver the protocol in a supportive, individualized way
- Integrate SSP into broader therapeutic goals
Your care team
Clinicians who specialize in the Safe and Sound Protocol
Get started
Ready to get started?
Touchstone Therapy Center is here to help. Fill out this form to schedule an appointment, or call (847) 996-6666 and our care coordinator will call you back.
Call (847) 996-6666
Hours Mon–Thu 8:30–7 · Fri 8:30–5 · Sat 9–1
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