Humans naturally enter defensive states when their nervous system perceives a threat. This happens frequently, as threats can arise from a variety of sources: internal signals such as issues with airway or oxygen delivery, digestive problems, immune responses, emotional or cognitive patterns, and bodily sensations; external factors like sensory overwhelm, environmental demands, or toxic exposures; and even relational dynamics, such as interactions with caregivers, teachers, partners, or friends. When these threats persist over time or become overwhelmingly acute, defensive patterns can become entrenched, causing people to become “stuck” in a state of chronic stress or dysregulation.

​

The Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) is a powerful tool designed to support the nervous system in feeling safe internally and influences the experience of safety in relationships and in the world. Neurobiology-Informed Parenting and Foundations of Health resources provide a deeper understanding of the stressors that contribute to chronic threat responses. These resources help us address the physical, environmental, and relational factors that keep the nervous system trapped in defensive modes.

​

When used together, the SSP and these complementary resources provide a comprehensive approach to reprogramming the body’s stress response, offering a robust set of safety cues that help individuals break free from harmful feedback loops and begin to thrive.

​

The Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) Core Program doesn’t have a fixed duration. Although it was originally designed as a 5-day program, experienced providers have found that a slower, individualized approach is more effective. At Regulation Station, we start with very short sessions and gradually increase the length as tolerated. Children with mild to moderate challenges complete the program in 4-6 weeks.. Teenagers and children with particular sensitivities, extreme challenging behaviors or flaring symptoms of PANS/PANDAS are more likely to need additional time.

​

Determining the listening plan can seem challenging at first,  but we closely monitor the nervous system through daily text support and adjust the pace as needed based on individual responses. It’s also important to consider the right timing—if caregivers are feeling acute overwhelm or anticipating a stressful event, it may not be the best time to begin. Feel free to reach out if you have any questions about choosing a time that would work best for your family.

After completing the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP), you may notice several positive changes in your child’s symptoms and behavior as their nervous system becomes more balanced and regulated. Here are some potential outcomes:

​

During and After the SSP  (Up to 8 Weeks After Completion):​

• Social and Emotional Changes:
  Your child may show increased affection, a greater desire for social interaction, and more facial expression. They might also be better able to  share their emotions verbally. This usually indicates better emotional regulation.

• Reduction in Behavioral Challenges:
  Many children experience a reduction in challenging behaviors, such as difficulty tolerating change, conflicts, emotional control issues, and symptoms of anxiety, anger, or depression. This can lead to an overall improvement in mood and behavior.

• Sensory System Improvements:
  Sensitivities to light, sound, touch, or smell may reduce. Children may also become less hyperactive or engage in fewer sensory-seeking behaviors.

• Digestive and Immune System Changes:
  Some children may experience improvements in digestion and immune function, such as better gut motility and more typical expression of illness.

• Improvements in Motor Skills:
  You may see better fine and gross motor skills as their nervous system becomes more regulated.

​

What to Expect in Case of Ongoing Challenges:

It’s important to note that some difficult moments or behaviors may persist, and this is normal. When a child’s nervous system experiences a threat signal, they may temporarily enter a defensive state. With enough experiences of safety and co-regulation, over-active defensive patterns reduce over time. 

​

Follow-Up Therapies:

At Regulation Station, we emphasize that continued support can help reinforce and build on the benefits of the SSP:

• Vagal Toning Pathway:
  For children with regulation challenges or those already receiving other therapeutic interventions, the Vagal Toning Pathway provides additional support. This pathway focuses on strengthening the parasympathetic nervous system (vagal tone), continuing to foster a sense of safety.

• Neurological Organization Pathway:
  For children with more significant needs, such as those with Autism, ADHD, Sensory Processing Disorder, Auditory Processing Disorder, or learning challenges, the Neurological Organization Package is a great follow-up. It focuses on optimizing brain and nervous system organization through neuroplasticity, building on the SSP’s effects.

 

While the SSP can lead to positive changes, follow up auditory therapies can help reinforce those changes and ensure continued improvement. The process is unique for every child, with results ranging from subtle shifts to dramatic changes, and ongoing support ensures that progress continues to develop.