In this episode, therapist and coach Justin Sunseri delves into the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) with Dr. Stephen Porges, the originator of the Polyvagal Theory, and Karen Onderko, co-author of the new book "Safe and Sound." Discover how SSP, a unique therapy using specifically filtered music, can help alleviate anxiety, depression, and sensory sensitivities by enhancing the nervous system's ability to experience safety. The discussion covers the science behind SSP, its clinical evidence, and its benefits for various conditions from autism to trauma. An insightful conversation that explores the potential of SSP as a neural exercise to aid in healing and resilience.
Buy the book now - https://amzn.to/4cJ7f9I (Purchasing through this link will give me a portion of the sale at no extra cost to you)
00:00 Intro to Stuck Not Broken
01:52 What is the Safe and Sound Protocol?
04:29 What is the evidence for SSP?
08:31 What is the music of SSP?
17:10 SSP and neuroplasticity
19:22 Neural exercises, building safety, and SSP
26:50 Trauma narratives and SSP
28:50 Safety can lead to defense
31:35 Who is SSP for?
33:07 Autism and SSP
39:39 SSP and co-regulation
41:38 Skepticism of SSP
47:07 Why not Safe and Sight or Safe and Smell?
52:18 Is SSP a cure-all?
57:44 Final thoughts and kindness
59:12 SSP on the community level
01:01:41 Department of Defense research grant
01:04:05 Outro to Stuck Not Broken
Resources:
🔸 Free resources and course in the Members Center - https://www.justinlmft.com/members
🔸 Join the Unstucking Academy - https://www.justinlmft.com/totalaccess
🔸 Polyvagal Intro webpage - https://www.justinlmft.com/polyvagalintro
About the Host: Justin Sunseri is a therapist and coach committed to helping you live with calm, confidence, and connection—no psychobabble, no woo-woo. Justin is the author of the Stuck Not Broken book series, a member of the Polyvagal Institute's Editorial Board, a father of two, and a husband.
Crisis Resources:
- National Suicide Prevention Hotline - 1 (800) 273-8255
- National Domestic Violence Hotline -1 (800) 799-7233
- LGBT Trevor Project Lifeline - 1 (866) 488-7386
- National Sexual Assault Hotline - 1 (800) 656-4673
- Crisis Text Line - Text “HOME” to 741741
- Call 911 for emergency
Disclaimer: This and other content produced by Justin Sunseri (“JustinLMFT”) (i.e; podcast, YouTube, Instagram, etc.) is not therapy, not intended to be therapy or be a replacement for therapy. Nothing in this creates or indicates a therapeutic relationship. Please consult with your therapist or seek for one in your area if you are experiencing mental health symptoms. Nothing should be construed to be specific life advice; it is for educational and entertainment purposes only.
Justin Sunseri is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist registered in the State of California (99147).
#polyvagaltheory #SSP #safeandsound