Safe and Sound Protocol in Vancouver, WA
Calming the Mind, Connecting the Heart
At Wonder Tree Developmental Psychology, we help children, teens, and adults find calm and connection through evidence-based, brain-focused therapies. One of our most gentle yet powerful tools is the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP), a listening-based therapy that helps regulate the nervous system and improve emotional resilience. Our SSP therapy in Vancouver, WA, is guided by Dr. Ashley Taylor, a Licensed Clinical Psychologist in both Washington and California. Her clinical and developmental expertise allows her to integrate the SSP with other supportive therapies. It helps clients who struggle with stress, sensory sensitivity, trauma, or emotional regulation.
Who Can Benefit from Our Safe and Sound Protocol
When our nervous system is overwhelmed, even small challenges can feel too big. The Safe and Sound Protocol uses specially filtered music to gently train the brain and body to feel safe in everyday life.
You might consider SSP therapy near Vancouver, WA, if you or your child experiences:
Chronic stress, anxiety, or emotional overwhelm
Sensory sensitivities to sound, touch, or movement
Difficulty focusing or staying calm in busy environments
Social withdrawal or challenges connecting with others
Emotional outbursts or shutdowns
Challenges related to trauma or nervous system dysregulation
The SSP is not a "quick fix." It's a process of retraining the nervous system to feel safe and balanced, the foundation for learning, social connection, and emotional health.
Our Approach to SSP Therapy in Vancouver, WA
At Wonder Tree, we combine science and compassion. We understand that no two nervous systems are alike, which is why every SSP journey is personalized. Our therapists take time to understand your history, sensitivities, and goals before beginning the protocol.
Here's how our approach is different:
Individualized Support
We customize each SSP plan to the client's age, goals, and nervous system readiness. Some children start slowly with short sessions, while others progress more quickly.
Therapist-Guided & Trauma-Informed
We never rush the process. A trained clinician monitors your or your child's progress throughout, ensuring the experience remains safe and soothing.
Integrative & Evidence-Based
We often pair SSP therapy with other services, such as child therapy in Vancouver, WA, or trauma therapy for adults in Vancouver, WA, for a complete healing approach.
Family Collaboration
Parents and caregivers are included every step of the way. We provide resources to help you understand what your child is experiencing and how to support regulation at home.
Comfortable, Calming Environment
Our clinic offers a quiet, welcoming space where clients can relax, listen, and reconnect with themselves, without pressure or judgment.
What Happens During a Safe and Sound Protocol Session
The Safe and Sound Protocol for children is gentle, accessible, and non-invasive. Here's what you can expect when starting SSP therapy at Wonder Tree:
1. Initial Consultation & Readiness Assessment
We begin with a conversation about your needs and experiences. We'll explain how the SSP works, review health and emotional history, and determine the best pace for the program.
2. Personalized Listening Plan
The SSP involves listening to specifically filtered music through headphones. This music stimulates the middle ear muscles and vagus nerve, supporting the body's ability to self-regulate.
3. Guided Listening Sessions
Listening sessions are brief, typically 15–30 minutes. You or your child may draw, play quietly, or rest during the session while the therapist observes for signs of comfort or stress.
4. Integration & Reflection
After each session, we discuss how you or your child felt, emotionally and physically. Small shifts, like easier transitions, calmer mornings, or better sleep, are signs the nervous system is learning new patterns.
5. Continued Support
We offer follow-up sessions and coaching to maintain progress. Some clients choose to repeat the SSP periodically for continued benefit.
Healing happens at your own pace. Our role is to walk alongside you, providing gentle structure and steady guidance.
Why Families Choose Wonder Tree for SSP Therapy
Here is why families choose us:
Expert-Led Care
Dr. Ashley Taylor's background in developmental and clinical psychology ensures that every SSP plan is grounded in research and clinical understanding.
Integrated with Broader Therapy Options
We combine SSP with relational and trauma-informed therapies, addressing the root causes of dysregulation instead of treating symptoms in isolation.
Personalized & Compassionate
Each client receives individualized attention. We understand that every nervous system and every story is unique.
Safe Environment for Sensitive Clients
Our clinic is intentionally calm and sensory-friendly, making it ideal for children and adults who experience overwhelm in typical environments.
Flexible Options
We offer both in-person sessions and remote SSP listening under clinical guidance, providing flexibility for families across Vancouver and surrounding areas.
Families consistently share that they notice more peace at home, calmer mornings, smoother school days, and easier emotional moments.
How SSP Therapy Helps
The Safe and Sound Protocol supports core areas that impact daily functioning, relationships, and learning. Over time, clients often notice:
Improved emotional regulation
Greater sense of calm and safety
Better focus and attention
Increased social engagement
Reduced anxiety and sensory reactivity
Stronger connection with family and peers
When the body feels safe, the mind can finally learn, connect, and grow. SSP helps rebuild that sense of safety from the inside out.
Begin Your Safe and Sound Protocol Journey Today
Every person deserves to feel safe in their own body. The Safe and Sound Protocol helps make that possible. Wonder Tree's clinicians are here to help you reconnect with calm and confidence. If you're ready to explore the Safe and Sound Protocol in Vancouver, WA, reach out today to schedule your consultation. Together, we'll help you rediscover balance and connection.
Frequently Asked Questions
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The SSP is a sound-based therapy that uses filtered music to help the nervous system regulate and feel safe. It's designed to reduce stress and support connection.
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Children, teens, and adults experiencing stress, trauma, anxiety, or sensory sensitivities can benefit. It's often used to support those with autism, ADHD, or emotional dysregulation.
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Yes. The program is non-invasive and gentle. Our clinicians adjust session length and pacing to fit each child's comfort level.
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Most programs include five core hours of listening, spread over several sessions. The pace is individualized; we focus on comfort and readiness, not speed.
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Absolutely. Many clients integrate SSP with talk therapy, occupational therapy, or trauma therapy. It often enhances the effectiveness of other interventions.