The information presented in this case study was submitted by the identified provider and reviewed by the Unyte Clinical Team. Modifications to the text have been made solely for the purpose of enhancing comprehension and clarity for the reader’s benefit, and were carefully applied while ensuring the accuracy and integrity of the original submission. Unyte Health makes every effort to use updated terms and inclusive language, this case study retains the author’s original descriptions to be most sensitive to the client’s identity and preferences.
About the Provider
Name: Gazit Chaya Nkosi
Disciplines/credentials: Speech-language pathologist (SLP)
Modalities: Rest and Restore Protocol (RRP), Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP), Wayfinder Life Coaching Certified, dialectical behavioral therapy, Internal Family Systems
Client Background
Name: Mary (pseudonym)
Age and Gender: 62-year-old woman
Program Delivered: Rest and Restore Protocol (RRP) Levels 1-3, Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) Core (Hours 1-5)
When Mary sought out provider Gazit Chaya Nkosi, she hoped to address several mental and physical symptoms. She felt that her nervous system was overactive, reacting disproportionately to what she perceived as minor issues; for example, the actions of those around her caused distress, even when the actions were insignificant. This resulted in several issues, such as an increasing lack of professional confidence in her collegiate position. She limited herself from potential growth opportunities due to a “fear of being seen.”
Physically, she exhibited abdominal issues. She struggled with long-term constipation, taking numerous medications and herbal supplements to alleviate this issue, which often caused diarrhea and put more strain on her digestive tract. Her digestive issues decreased her motivation to exercise, making it a struggle to stay active, and she craved sweet foods more than she wanted. Additionally, she experienced sinus pressure from allergies.
Implementation of the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) and Rest and Restore Protocol (RRP)
Both programs were delivered remotely, with provider Gazit Chaya observing and supporting. Mary began with the SSP, participating in drawing activities while listening. She would pause when dysregulation arose, stopping to perform nervous system exercises and self-inquiry.
At Hour 3 of the SSP, Gazit Chaya introduced RRP. Mary listened independently at bedtime, completing 5-to-30-minute sessions every other day over the span of two months.
Response
Mary’s improvements were both quantifiable and qualifiable. Prior to the treatments, Mary scored a 17 on the GAD-7, indicating the presence of severe anxiety symptoms. Afterwards, her score was reduced to a 4, indicating minimal to no anxiety symptoms.
Before RRP, Mary also completed the BPQ with an initial score of 122. Midway through the treatment, the score rose to 139. Upon completing RRP, her final total was 158.
In her own observations, Mary noticed and understood her physiological responses to various stimuli, both external and internal. This change encouraged Mary to reach out to others for co-regulation when she felt overwhelmed, a change that her provider referred to as “just beautiful.”
Professionally, Mary felt more assured and confident in her work, enabling her to create new educational materials without fear or hesitation.
For the first time in years, her sleep quality improved, with Mary getting a full, restful night more often. Her sugar cravings also reduced while her desire to exercise increased, allowing her to feel more fit and comfortable in her body. Most significantly, her bowel movements became more regular, occurring daily without the need for supplements and medication.
Discussion
After observing the results of Mary’s treatment, provider Gazit Chaya perceived the changes in Mary’s digestive system as the most significant. Prior to seeing shifts in many of her clients, she attributed positive changes to the coaching that accompanied the SSP. However, witnessing the digestive tracts of many clients improving was “astonishing,” indicating that the listening therapies encouraged improvements even without the supplementary coaching.
Gazit Chaya shared that she is “so grateful to be able to share these modalities with my clients,” demonstrating the value of both the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) and Rest and Restore Protocol (RRP).
