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Case StudySSPAnxietyAuditory ProcessingDepression

Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) provides relief from auditory sensitivities and social anxiety

🕑 2 minutes read
Posted June 1, 2023

About the Provider

Name: Stephen Roberts
Discipline/Credentials: 
Mental Health Provider, MPCC
Modalities:
Brain Health Directed Counsellor specializing in depression, anxiety, trauma, addictions and sports performance using Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP), Brainspotting (BSP), CBT, play therapy, body work


Client Background

Name: HM (pseudonym)
Age and Gender: 17-year old girl
Program Delivered:
Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) (Core, Hours 1-5)

HM presents with misophonia and social anxiety with specific sensitivities to loud chewing and noises. She lives with her mom and two sisters in a supportive environment and was very open to trying the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP). She has tried multiple different treatments prior, mainly cognitive therapies. Treatment goals included going to school without the use of headphones, better noise toleration, and sitting through three meals a week with no issues.


Implementation of the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) 

The SSP was delivered in a hybrid model through in-person, in-office, and in-home settings for one hour per day, for five days (before SSP was slowed down). HM listened both independently and with support. HM’s mental health provider, Stephen, reports that “brainspotting was used a couple of times in addition to regulation programs, psychoeducation and brain work.”

Response 

HM went through the SSP three times and was able to exceed her goals. She was able to go to school without headphones and sit through most dinners with no reactions. Client assessments showed improvement in all areas by at least one point, shifting from ‘very frequently’ to ‘frequently’ or ‘always’ to ‘sometimes’. 

The treatment goals were surpassed in more areas than just the initial goals. For example, HM had a reduction in her depressive symptoms and became more emotionally regulated.  

Stephen reports surprise at the response, as he was a new provider. “It was towards the start of using the SSP. It was better than expected. Client was so happy with the results. Mom was ecstatic. Mom wanted to do the training herself as a result. Teachers noticed big changes as did other family members.”

Discussion

Stephen shares that the SSP was “easy to do, accessible and noticeable.” Because HM was noticing changes herself, it helped with her engagement. Stephen reports that he learned that taking the SSP slower can improve results, and that those results may have come more quickly if treatment was delivered in a slower manner.

Discover the Safe and Sound Protocol

Developed by Dr. Stephen Porges, the SSP is a non-invasive acoustic vagus nerve stimulator that helps clients connect with themselves, others, and the world from a foundation of physiological safety.

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