The SSP uses music that you or your child may already be familiar with. The music is filtered through an algorithm that enhances intonation changes within the frequency range of the human voice, training the auditory processing system to attune to cues of safety. A classical playlist is also available as a non-vocal, trauma-responsive and accessible alternative that maintains the essential elements and original algorithms of the SSP.

The SSP is a powerful therapeutic intervention and is not available for use without the supervision of a trained professional (e.g., occupational therapist, licensed social worker, mental health practitioner, clinician, etc.). Your child's provider may, however, suggest some independent listening as part of your child's SSP experience. All SSP providers are required to complete an extensive training and certification course prior to delivering the SSP to ensure safe and effective delivery.

Listening sessions are designed based on numerous factors, including information gathered during the intake process. Sessions usually include a combination of client education, regulating activities, interoceptive awareness work, and listening to the SSP. We recommend speaking with your provider about SSP delivery to learn more about what your child's listening session could look like within the context of their individual needs.

The music of the SSP is divided into five distinct one-hour-long sections. While you are not required to listen to a full hour each session, the filtration of the main SSP program is dynamic and progressive so it is important to listen in order and not repeat any sections without guidance from your child's SSP provider.

Your child's SSP provider will collaborate with you and your child to determine which activities will be most supportive of your child's listening experience. In many cases, light movement, breathing exercises, and drawing, coloring or puzzle activities are recommended. High-intensity exercise, cognitively demanding tasks, and video games or computer work are generally not recommended.

Our providers implement the SSP utilizing a neurodiversity-affirming, trauma-responsive approach by doing the following: - setting up the environment to ensure sensory safety - ensuring a strong base of connection is established - attuning closely to nervous system cues - collaborating with the child to ensure the experience is meaningful and promotes co-regulation and nervous system safety - respecting a child's autonomy, and - focusing on supporting regulation rather than "fixing" or "normalizing" behavior At its core, the SSP is designed to support the autonomic nervous system by promoting a sense of safety and connection through specially filtered music that engages the vagus nerve. From a neurodiversity-affirming perspective, this can be a valuable tool to help individuals feel more regulated and grounded in their bodies—on their own terms. We empower our clients to opt out of a listening session at any point and for any reason. Rather than aiming to change who someone is, the SSP works closely with a child's individual nervous system, rather than against it, to help reduce the sensory overwhelm, anxiety, or stress responses that can make it harder to engage with the world in a meaningful way. This aligns with our neurodiversity-affirming paradigm, which honors neurological differences as natural variations rather than deficits. Because we offer the SSP with consent, choice, and flexibility—respecting each person's unique sensory profile, pace, and preferences—it can be a supportive and empowering resource. It's not about making neurodivergent individuals conform or appear more "typical," but about enhancing their well-being and access to safety, co-regulation, and connection.