New at Real World Kids OT: Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP)
A powerful, evidence-based listening therapy to help kids feel calm, connected, and regulated.
Help Your Child Feel More Regulated, Connected, and Calm
At Real World Kids OT, we’re committed to offering innovative, evidence-based interventions to support children’s development. We’re excited to introduce the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP), an evidence – based listening therapy designed to support children who experience sensory sensitivities, anxiety,
difficulty with transitions, emotional regulation, and social engagement challenges.
Developed by Dr. Stephen Porges, SSP is grounded in the Polyvagal Theory and designed to gently retune the nervous system to feel safer and more socially connected. It uses specially filtered music to help regulate the body’s autonomic nervous system through the vagus nerve.
Who is SSP for?
The SSP is beneficial for children (and adults) who:
- Are highly sensitive to sounds, lights, or textures
- Experience anxiety, meltdowns, or emotional outbursts
- Have difficulty with transitions and change
- Struggle with social communication or peer relationships
- Have experienced trauma or early stress
- Are neurodivergent (including children with autism, ADHD, SPD, anxiety disorders)
How It Works
Your child listens through headphones or a speaker in a calm environment while engaging in quiet, regulating activities such as drawing, building, or cuddling with a parent. The SSP program involves 5 hours of listening to specially filtered music delivered over a series of days or weeks. The listening sessions can be:
- In-person
- Remotely, from the comfort of your home
What to Expect
Initial Consultation
We help you get set up
Tailored Plan
Sessions are customized to your child’s regulation needs
Ongoing Support:
I support you throughout the journey
Find out more about the SSP
Why Real World Kids OT?
- Certified SSP Provider
- Experienced with neurodivergent children
- Family-centered and trauma-sensitive approach
- Flexible delivery options (in-person or remote)
- Deep understanding of regulation, sensory processing, and emotional resilience
Watch this 5-minute video to learn how
the Safe & Sound Protocol can help YOUR child
Curious if the SSP is right for your child? Let’s chat!
FAQs about SSP
Is the SSP covered by AFU and my extended medical insurance in BC?
Yes, the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) may be eligible for coverage under the Autism Funding Unit (AFU) in British Columbia, provided it is administered by a qualified professional, such as a Registered Occupational Therapist. To utilize AFU funds for SSP services, you would need to submit a request for approval through the AFU portal, including a detailed service plan and cost estimate. It’s advisable to contact the AFU directly or consult their guidelines to ensure all requirements are met.
Regarding extended medical insurance in BC, coverage for SSP varies depending on your insurance provider and plan. Some extended health plans may reimburse services offered by Registered Occupational Therapists, which could include SSP sessions. It’s important to review your specific policy details or contact your insurance provider to confirm whether SSP services are covered under your plan.
Is SSP safe?
Yes. SSP is a gentle, non-invasive program. It is not music therapy but rather a neural exercise for the nervous system, always delivered under practitioner guidance.
How quickly will we see changes?
Many families notice subtle shifts right away while the child is listening, with more pronounced changes weeks later. Integration is key.
Will it work for my child?
SSP is not a one-size-fits-all. We assess each child’s readiness to ensure it supports—not overwhelms—their system.
Can we do it at home?
Yes! We offer remote SSP delivery with regular check-ins and close monitoring to ensure success.
Once you get access, you simply download the app and start listening!
What is the cost of the SSP?
The cost of the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) varies depending on the delivery method (in session or remote), specific services included in the package as well as the complexity of the case. Please contact us to get your quote today.