Autism, Trauma, and Nervous System Healing with the Safe and Sound Protocol | Ep. 14

In this episode, Brooke discusses the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) with Laurie Belanger, a licensed social worker and trauma therapist. Laurie delves into the benefits of SSP, an evidence-based therapeutic tool designed to reset the nervous system and enhance safety, particularly for neurodiverse individuals with trauma histories and sensory issues. She explains how SSP works with filtered music to help the nervous system feel safer, thus expanding the 'window of tolerance' for stress. Laurie also touches upon the polyvagal theory, the importance of bottom-up approaches in trauma therapy, and the utility of EMDR in her practice. Additionally, she provides insights on how to find and choose the right SSP provider and the impacts of SSP for neurodiverse individuals, including non-speaking autistic children. The conversation highlights the importance of a thorough assessment, self-awareness, and individualized treatment plans to effectively support trauma processing.00:00 Introduction to Trauma Therapy02:26 Guest Introduction: Laurie Belanger05:04 Understanding the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP)06:20 The Science Behind SSP and Polyvagal Theory09:35 Practical Applications and Benefits of SSP15:23 Exploring Polyvagal Theory in Depth27:18 Understanding Trauma and Sensory Processing28:38 The Importance of Proper Resourcing in Trauma Therapy30:35 Introduction to EMDR Therapy34:20 Special Considerations for Neurodiverse Children42:56 The Evolution of the Safe and Sound Protocol47:55 Finding the Right Practitioner50:27 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsConnect with Finding Hope on the Spectrum:Email: [email protected]: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61574918739411Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brooke-wagner-4819233a/Instagram: @findinghopeonthespectrumTikTok: FindinghopeonthespectrumGuest Contact: lauriebelanger.comhttps://integratedlistening.com/