Safe & Sound Protocol Coaching & Consultations
Turn to the provider that providers turn to...
About
NEW!! Online Somatic Experiencing Skills Groups & Neurodivergent Women's Group. Looking to access my expertise with SSP while bypassing my waiting list? I now have SSP Yoda Informed Associates you can learn about on my Team page. Are you a provider looking to expand your skill set? Please see my Training page to learn about my upcoming two day training for SSP providers.
Welcome to my website. I am so glad you have found me.
I am Carol Ann Brayley, MSW, RSW, SEP. I am a neurodivergent psychotherapist and somatic experiencing practitioner with over 28 years of clinical experience. I am especially passionate about helping neurodiverse families become better regulated so that they can feel safer in the world and fully embrace their gifts, with fewer meltdowns.
Whether you are someone who is looking for an SSP provider, or you are someone who is already working with an SSP provider but are looking for additional help and resources, I'd love to help!
If you are a SSP provider looking for assistance, please click here and click on "Services for SSP Providers".
With Safe & Sound Protocol (SSP) who you choose to be your provider is extremely important and you have many options.
Why limit yourself to working with a provider who just has experience working with kids? Or just with adults? Or providers who are only comfortable working with those who are on the spectrum? Or only those with trauma? Or those who are “straightforward”?
SSP is an approach that for many providers has a wide learning curve. Regardless of anyone’s age, background or diagnosis, every brain and nervous system is different.
SSP can be an extremely life changing transformative approach. However, when it is listened to at a pace that is too fast for that person, it is possible that some things may get worse before they get better. When delivery of SSP is carefully titrated to the nervous system of the specific individual when needed, it allows the process to be much more gentle with the maximum likelihood of effectiveness, in even the most complex situations.
I made my own mistakes when I was first learning how to offer SSP back in May 2019. Many providers out there - even some who have been offering SSP for a long time but with a much lower volume of clients - are still trying to figure it out.
When Unyte-iLs receives enquiries that they consider too complex for their in house providers - or from SSP providers who need help after having difficult experiences either in their own process or with clients - they very often refer them to me. In November 2022, I was featured on a Unyte-iLs webinar for SSP providers, sharing my knowledge and expertise on how to offer this protocol to even the most complex clients.
If you or your child’s background includes trauma, chronic health concerns, being neurodivergent or having other special needs, you will especially benefit from choosing me to be your provider..
I myself am a highly sensitive neurodivergent person who has complex health concerns and also have raised my two wonderful children to adulthood. Even within just my immediate family alone, collectively our concerns have included: misophonia, anxiety, brain injuries, autism, ADHD, fibromyalgia, complex developmental trauma, selective mutism, Tourettes syndrome, auditory processing disorder, tinnitus, depression, social anxiety, sensory sensitivities, cognitive difficulties, chronic insomnia, MTHFR genetic mutations, autoimmune disorders, MAST cell activation syndrome, chronic pain, digestive issues, and more.
Imagine the relief of dealing with a provider who quickly and intuitively “gets” what is happening without you having to work so hard to explain.
Picture the joy of working with someone who recognizes there are many different types of beautiful brains rather seeing SSP as a way to “cure” neurodivergence or push someone to conform. Instead SSP is offered as a wonderful approach that may help virtually anyone feel safer in the world and more confident in fully embracing all of who they are, without feeling "less than".
Experience the ease of working with a provider who respects your needs and communication style and is happy to creatively come up with solutions when needed. If some aspect of doing SSP is challenging, we will figure it out together.
Enjoy the benefit of being guided by someone who is highly intuitive and can sense and help in the earliest stages of dysregulation rather one who may at times be stumbling around in the dark and not notice something has started to go astray until something dramatic occurs - and then leave you waiting while they seek advice.
When you choose me as your SSP provider, you will experience the luxury of my ability to quickly see the bigger picture so that you can relax into the process, without ever needing to worry or figure things out on your own.
Furthermore, I offer much more than one stop shopping. SSP is meant to be the beginning rather than the end of treatment and is meant to be followed by something else, for maximum effectiveness. Should you choose to pursue either NeurOptimal Neurofeedback or iLs Focus after SSP - or in between rounds of SSP - you will enter the next phase of your journey already comfortable and familiar with the high level of service you can expect from me.
Starting this fall, I will also be offering somatic experiencing skills groups, at firs online and eventually in person, in Brantford, Ontario. While they will be open to any interested adults, my hope is that these will be especially useful for SSP providers so that they can expand their skills set as well as those going through the SSP process themselves or for parents supporting their child's use of SSP - whether I am their SSP provider or not.
I am Carol Ann Brayley, MSW, RSW, SEP. I am a neurodivergent psychotherapist and somatic experiencing practitioner with over 28 years of clinical experience. I am especially passionate about helping neurodiverse families become better regulated so that they can feel safer in the world and fully embrace their gifts, with fewer meltdowns.
Whether you are someone who is looking for an SSP provider, or you are someone who is already working with an SSP provider but are looking for additional help and resources, I'd love to help!
If you are a SSP provider looking for assistance, please click here and click on "Services for SSP Providers".
With Safe & Sound Protocol (SSP) who you choose to be your provider is extremely important and you have many options.
Why limit yourself to working with a provider who just has experience working with kids? Or just with adults? Or providers who are only comfortable working with those who are on the spectrum? Or only those with trauma? Or those who are “straightforward”?
SSP is an approach that for many providers has a wide learning curve. Regardless of anyone’s age, background or diagnosis, every brain and nervous system is different.
SSP can be an extremely life changing transformative approach. However, when it is listened to at a pace that is too fast for that person, it is possible that some things may get worse before they get better. When delivery of SSP is carefully titrated to the nervous system of the specific individual when needed, it allows the process to be much more gentle with the maximum likelihood of effectiveness, in even the most complex situations.
I made my own mistakes when I was first learning how to offer SSP back in May 2019. Many providers out there - even some who have been offering SSP for a long time but with a much lower volume of clients - are still trying to figure it out.
When Unyte-iLs receives enquiries that they consider too complex for their in house providers - or from SSP providers who need help after having difficult experiences either in their own process or with clients - they very often refer them to me. In November 2022, I was featured on a Unyte-iLs webinar for SSP providers, sharing my knowledge and expertise on how to offer this protocol to even the most complex clients.
If you or your child’s background includes trauma, chronic health concerns, being neurodivergent or having other special needs, you will especially benefit from choosing me to be your provider..
I myself am a highly sensitive neurodivergent person who has complex health concerns and also have raised my two wonderful children to adulthood. Even within just my immediate family alone, collectively our concerns have included: misophonia, anxiety, brain injuries, autism, ADHD, fibromyalgia, complex developmental trauma, selective mutism, Tourettes syndrome, auditory processing disorder, tinnitus, depression, social anxiety, sensory sensitivities, cognitive difficulties, chronic insomnia, MTHFR genetic mutations, autoimmune disorders, MAST cell activation syndrome, chronic pain, digestive issues, and more.
Imagine the relief of dealing with a provider who quickly and intuitively “gets” what is happening without you having to work so hard to explain.
Picture the joy of working with someone who recognizes there are many different types of beautiful brains rather seeing SSP as a way to “cure” neurodivergence or push someone to conform. Instead SSP is offered as a wonderful approach that may help virtually anyone feel safer in the world and more confident in fully embracing all of who they are, without feeling "less than".
Experience the ease of working with a provider who respects your needs and communication style and is happy to creatively come up with solutions when needed. If some aspect of doing SSP is challenging, we will figure it out together.
Enjoy the benefit of being guided by someone who is highly intuitive and can sense and help in the earliest stages of dysregulation rather one who may at times be stumbling around in the dark and not notice something has started to go astray until something dramatic occurs - and then leave you waiting while they seek advice.
When you choose me as your SSP provider, you will experience the luxury of my ability to quickly see the bigger picture so that you can relax into the process, without ever needing to worry or figure things out on your own.
Furthermore, I offer much more than one stop shopping. SSP is meant to be the beginning rather than the end of treatment and is meant to be followed by something else, for maximum effectiveness. Should you choose to pursue either NeurOptimal Neurofeedback or iLs Focus after SSP - or in between rounds of SSP - you will enter the next phase of your journey already comfortable and familiar with the high level of service you can expect from me.
Starting this fall, I will also be offering somatic experiencing skills groups, at firs online and eventually in person, in Brantford, Ontario. While they will be open to any interested adults, my hope is that these will be especially useful for SSP providers so that they can expand their skills set as well as those going through the SSP process themselves or for parents supporting their child's use of SSP - whether I am their SSP provider or not.
SSP
I have offered SSP to a few hundred people from ages 2 - 78 years old, from all over the world. I have provided safe, gentle and effective outcomes for those dealing with misophonia, anxiety, depression, sensory sensitivities, auditory processing disorder, social difficulties, ADHD, selective mutism, Tourette's syndrome, brain injuries, digestive issues, long covid, trauma, PTSD, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, POTS, tinnitus, mold exposure & more.
The Safe & Sound Protocol is a 5 hour auditory intervention, created by Stephen Porges, the founder of polyvagal theory.
SSP music has been specially filtered in a way that causes the vagus nerve to become stimulated during listening. SSP music is basically delivering "cues of safety" to the nervous system.
As long as this listening occurs in the context of someone feeling safe and supported, this introduces a calmer, parasympathetic state, and allows someone whose brain may have been constantly scanning for danger to no longer enhance and hyper focus upon lower frequency sounds - the sounds of danger - but instead to shift focus to higher frequency sounds - the sounds of human speech.
SSP listening also helps to improve the functioning of the middle ear muscles which ideally then become better able to filter out background noise to hear the sound of speech, and others sounds of safety.
This changes all come together for example to allow someone to be able to more easily - and often effortlessly, without "trying" or even being aware that they are doing so - to filter out sounds that they previously would have been distressed by.
Areas of Improvement Potentially Arising 2-7 weeks after completion of SSP Core
Reduced anxiety, especially social anxiety
Improved assertiveness and self protectiveness
Increased displays of affection-seeking affection-expressive contact
Increased facial flexibility and expressiveness
Increased body flexibility
Reduced chronic pain
Change in throat tension/sound of voice
Improved eye contact
Reduced repetitive motions and restlessness
Increased feelings of calmness
Hearing changes/reductions in sensory hypersensitivities
Finding transitions much easier
Speech and language improvements
Reduced sensitivity to food tastes and textures/less "picky eating"
Improved reciprocal communication
Thoughts and behavior have more purposeful flow
Improved comprehension
Easier to follow directions
Improved processing speed
Improved organization
Improved dexterity
More active participant in classroom, able to tolerate and overcome challenges
Improved visual focus/tracking
More able to put words to feeling
Able to remain regulated during face to face communication
Improved self-awareness (particularly of emotions),
Improved communication about self (again particularly about emotions),
Decreased panic, fears and phobias
Improved cardiac function
Improvement in breathing patterns.
Able to tolerate busy environments
Increased sense of humor
Improved ability to read social cues
Less easily stressed
Improved digestion
Improved bladder control
Hormonal shifts for women
Concerns related to long covid.
Click here to learn more about what the SSP process with me looks like
Click here to view SSP pricing package options
Click here to book in to start SSP with an SSP Yoda Informed associate.
Process
Important Information
With SSP there is the potential for some things to get worse initially before they get better. We do our best to avoid this by paying close attention to how the nervous system is responding and pausing or going as slowly as needed, to keep the process gentle.
However, ideally we try to choose timing carefully. If anyone is feeling at the absolute limit of what they can cope with, or if there are upcoming events that may be quite stressful, it's not always the best time to begin SSP. Some exceptions do exist, please discuss this with me if you aren't sure of the best possible timing for you.
It's most ideal to choose a time when you may be able to slow down a little, to allow yourself to process should anything get bumpy.
It is also important to avoid doing SSP shortly before having any signficant dental work done. SSP is contraindicated for anyone with a recent head injury and/or a seizure disorder unless someone has been seizure free for at least one year prior to SSP.
If someone has any significant medical issues and/or bipolar depression, it is important to let me know that so that I can do a medical consult ahead of time, if needed.
It is also important that, when you listen to SSP that your (or your child) have someone that feels safe and comfortable present during listening. The support person's job is to notice if the listener looks at them and meet them with soft eyes, a smile, etc..
Part of how SSP works is by activating the social engagement systems and, while those systems might not come on board in a different way for some people until a few to several weeks after the process has been completed, for others, they may start to come on board immediately, and that process is supported best if someone is present that they feel safe and comfortable with.
If you do not have someone to be present with you during listening, it may still be possible to do SSP effectively. Please discuss this with me.
If more than one person in the home is doing SSP I prefer to run people sequentially rather than simultaneously as family life can get difficult if more than one person becomes dysregulated at the same time.
SSP Monitoring
During the SSP process I require that people stay in touch with me over email, checking in ideally every day or few days to let me know anything different they are noticing in areas such as sleep, mood, focus, energy levels, digestion, sound sensitivities, and chronic pain levels, for example. This helps me to be understand how the nervous system is responding and to let you know when to slow down or to take days off from listening so that the process stays as gentle as possible, while allowing for the best possible improvements.
Devices
SSP is currently being offered through an app. You will need either a smart phone or a tablet. Newer MacBooks that have the M1 chip, or Chromebook can also be used. A "regular" laptop or desktop can not play SSP music.
If we are beginning listening with an online listening session, you will need to use a different device for the online session than the one you are using for the SSP app. Your headphones will need to be able to connect with the device the app is on. Some devices will require a connector.
Please download the app and test that your headphones can connect with the device, prior to our online session. If you have not received your invitation to the app by the day before we meet, please message me.
If a child aged 12 or under is doing SSP I don't typically observe the beginning of listening but instead meet with their parent to hear what more about their child and to make a plan together, of how to begin.
Headphones
For SSP listening, you will need a suitable set of headphones. Earbuds can NOT be used.
Headphones need to be over the ear ones with the big padded ear cups that completely surround the ears rather than just sitting on them, and they need to not have noise cancelling, unless that feature can be turned off, and not bass enhanced.
The headphones if they are not bluetooth, also will need to connect to the smartphone or tablet that the SSP app is on, and some may require an adapter depending upon your device.
If you don't already have a set of suitable headphones, ones that the Unyte-iLs company specifically recommends are OneOdio A70 or A71
If you or your child have difficulty with headphones please discuss this with me as we do have other options.
Click here to view SSP package pricing options
I currently have a waiting list to start new people with SSP, but you can access online scheduling here, to book yourself or your child in, to start SSP with an SSP Yoda Informed Associate who may be available sooner
With SSP there is the potential for some things to get worse initially before they get better. We do our best to avoid this by paying close attention to how the nervous system is responding and pausing or going as slowly as needed, to keep the process gentle.
However, ideally we try to choose timing carefully. If anyone is feeling at the absolute limit of what they can cope with, or if there are upcoming events that may be quite stressful, it's not always the best time to begin SSP. Some exceptions do exist, please discuss this with me if you aren't sure of the best possible timing for you.
It's most ideal to choose a time when you may be able to slow down a little, to allow yourself to process should anything get bumpy.
It is also important to avoid doing SSP shortly before having any signficant dental work done. SSP is contraindicated for anyone with a recent head injury and/or a seizure disorder unless someone has been seizure free for at least one year prior to SSP.
If someone has any significant medical issues and/or bipolar depression, it is important to let me know that so that I can do a medical consult ahead of time, if needed.
It is also important that, when you listen to SSP that your (or your child) have someone that feels safe and comfortable present during listening. The support person's job is to notice if the listener looks at them and meet them with soft eyes, a smile, etc..
Part of how SSP works is by activating the social engagement systems and, while those systems might not come on board in a different way for some people until a few to several weeks after the process has been completed, for others, they may start to come on board immediately, and that process is supported best if someone is present that they feel safe and comfortable with.
If you do not have someone to be present with you during listening, it may still be possible to do SSP effectively. Please discuss this with me.
If more than one person in the home is doing SSP I prefer to run people sequentially rather than simultaneously as family life can get difficult if more than one person becomes dysregulated at the same time.
SSP Monitoring
During the SSP process I require that people stay in touch with me over email, checking in ideally every day or few days to let me know anything different they are noticing in areas such as sleep, mood, focus, energy levels, digestion, sound sensitivities, and chronic pain levels, for example. This helps me to be understand how the nervous system is responding and to let you know when to slow down or to take days off from listening so that the process stays as gentle as possible, while allowing for the best possible improvements.
Devices
SSP is currently being offered through an app. You will need either a smart phone or a tablet. Newer MacBooks that have the M1 chip, or Chromebook can also be used. A "regular" laptop or desktop can not play SSP music.
If we are beginning listening with an online listening session, you will need to use a different device for the online session than the one you are using for the SSP app. Your headphones will need to be able to connect with the device the app is on. Some devices will require a connector.
Please download the app and test that your headphones can connect with the device, prior to our online session. If you have not received your invitation to the app by the day before we meet, please message me.
If a child aged 12 or under is doing SSP I don't typically observe the beginning of listening but instead meet with their parent to hear what more about their child and to make a plan together, of how to begin.
Headphones
For SSP listening, you will need a suitable set of headphones. Earbuds can NOT be used.
Headphones need to be over the ear ones with the big padded ear cups that completely surround the ears rather than just sitting on them, and they need to not have noise cancelling, unless that feature can be turned off, and not bass enhanced.
The headphones if they are not bluetooth, also will need to connect to the smartphone or tablet that the SSP app is on, and some may require an adapter depending upon your device.
If you don't already have a set of suitable headphones, ones that the Unyte-iLs company specifically recommends are OneOdio A70 or A71
If you or your child have difficulty with headphones please discuss this with me as we do have other options.
Click here to view SSP package pricing options
I currently have a waiting list to start new people with SSP, but you can access online scheduling here, to book yourself or your child in, to start SSP with an SSP Yoda Informed Associate who may be available sooner
Associate Pricing
Access the benefits of Carol Ann Brayley, MSW, RSW, SEP's expertise while working with an SSP Yoda Informed Associate. Working directly with Carol Ann Brayley, MSW, RSW, SEP is also possible but there is a waiting list and an additional $100 fee for individual SSP plus an additional $50 per additional family member applies. Payment plans available upon request.
C$795
Individual SSP
- (Approx $575 US)
- One online session at the start of the SSP process
- Email check-ins, Monday - Friday
- Access to the SSP app for up to 6 months
- Additional months, if needed are $100 per month
- Additional online sessions are $180 for 60 mins, $90 for 30 mins
- Additional sessions can be used for check ins, provider supported listening, or additional relevant services and modalities.
- Fee applies to working with Raizy Yormark, MSW, LSW, CCC-SLP; Lara Wrigley, Psy D; or Jeffi Farquharson, RP.
- When working with Carol Ann Brayley, MSW, RSW, SEP pricing is $895 CDN/approx $665 US for Individual SSP
C$1295
Parent & Child SSP
MOST POPULAR
- (Approximately $900 US)
- We see the best SSP results in children when a parent does SSP first, or together with their child.
- One online session for each family member
- Email check ins, Monday - Friday
- Access to the SSP app for up to 6 months
- Additional months, if needed are $125 per month
- Additional online sessions can be added, $180 per hour, $90 for 30 mins
- Fee applies to working with Raizy Yormark, MSW, LSW, CCC-SLP; Lara Wrigley, Psy D; or Jeffi Farquharson, RP.
- When working with Carol Ann Brayley, MSW, RSW, SEP pricing is $1445 CDN/approx $1070 US for Parent & Child SSP
C$1695
Parent & Two Other Family Members SSP
- (Approximately $1255 US)
- Help each person and the family as a whole by stimulating social engagement systems together!
- One online session per family member
- Email check ins, Monday - Friday
- Access to the SSP app for up to 6 months
- Additional family members are $400 each
- Additional time on the app, if needed is $100 plus an extra $25 each for each additional family member still on the app
- Additional online sessions are $180 per hour, $90 for 30 mins
- Fee applies to working with Raizy Yormark, MSW, LSW, CCC-SLP; Lara Wrigley, Psy D; or Jeffi Farquharson, RP.
- When working with Carol Ann Brayley, MSW, RSW, SEP pricing is $1895 CDN/approx $1400 US for Parent & Two Additional Family Members SSP. Additional family members with Carol Ann are $450 CDN/approx $335 US
Book Now
Ready to start SSP?
If working with Raizy Yormark, MSW, LSW, CCC-SLP; Lara Wrigley, Psy D; or Jeffi Farquharson, RP, please feel free to book yourself in.
If you would like to work with Carol Ann Brayley, MSW, RSW, SEP, please contact her to be added to her waiting list. Please note that an additional $100 CDN for individual SSP plus an additional $50 CDN per additional family member, compared to SSP Yoda Associate Pricing.
If working with Raizy Yormark, MSW, LSW, CCC-SLP; Lara Wrigley, Psy D; or Jeffi Farquharson, RP, please feel free to book yourself in.
If you would like to work with Carol Ann Brayley, MSW, RSW, SEP, please contact her to be added to her waiting list. Please note that an additional $100 CDN for individual SSP plus an additional $50 CDN per additional family member, compared to SSP Yoda Associate Pricing.
Team
New! I have added SSP Yoda Informed SSP providers as associates to my practice as I am simply unable to keep up with demand. Associates listed here have the benefit of direct and easy access to my expertise - and I, to theirs - through regular case consultations together. We all provide SSP internationally and charge equivalent rates. Jeffi and I are based in Ontario Canada and charge in CDN currency. Raizy and Lara are based in the US and charges in the equivalent US currency.
Carol Ann Brayley, MSW, RSW, SEP
SSP Yoda
From the moment I first encountered SSP I became very passionate about it. I learned with SSP very rapidly and lately I feel like I am coming to new understandings about SSP on an almost daily basis, that I believe may at times help to increase its effectiveness.
Jeffi Farquharson, RP
SSP Yoda Associate
I am very happy to welome Jeffi Farquharson as an associate to my practice. In addition to being a fantastic SSP provider and a Registered Psychotherapist, Jeffi and I have been close personal friends for 20 years. Jeffi is one of the warmest, caring and most compassionate people I have ever met. She is also smart, funny, and incredibly intuitive and attuned.
Raizy Yormark, MSW, LSW, CCC-SLP
SSP Yoda Associate
Raizy is a very welcome addition to the SSP Yoda team. Raizy brings a wealth of experience and unique skill set as someone who is trained as both a trauma therapist and as a speech and language pathologist.
Lara Wrigley, Psy D
SSP Yoda Associate
Dr. Lara Wrigley is a licensed clinical psychologist with over 30 years of clinical experience working with a broad range of clients at all phases of the life span. She utilizes an integrative model in her approach that includes a focus on relational health, trauma and nervous system regulation. As a member of PSYPACT, she is able to offer insurance reimbursable psychotherapy in most states within the U.S.
What to Expect
NeurOptimal
NeurOptimal neurofeedback rental systems available for home use. One of many fantastic options to follow SSP with, to allow further nervous system settling and integration. Accessing NeurOptimal at home is just as beneficial while being more convenient and more cost effective.
With NeurOptimal neurofeedback, our focus is upon restoring brain resilience and flexibility.
NeurOptimal is easy to use, safe and gentle. It does not require first having any kind of assessment, or complicated and expensive brain mapping as, with NeurOptimal, the brain is in charge.
During NeurOptimal sessions, no frequencies are sent to the brain. The system is on a tablet, and five sensors are attached to the scalp and ears.
The sensors monitor brain functioning. During sessions, music - or children's TV shows or movies, if desired - are playing through the tablet. When the sensors detect that the brain is about to shift from one state to another, there will be a little crackle or gap in the audio - kind of like a record "skip".
Because this pattern keeps happening over and over again, the brain begins to recognize it is being given feedback about itself.
It's kind of like if we had been doing yoga our whole life but we had never had a mirror in front us. Then one day a mirror appears and all at once we can see that our downward dog has been a bit "off".
By increasing the brain's awareness of what it has been doing, it gives the brain a chance to course correct. The brain itself decides what it does with that information and how it wants to proceed.
Because the brain is in charge with this system, there does not tend to be any risk of side effects as the brain does not tend to push itself faster than it is ready to go.
Neurofeedback is not considered either a treatment or a therapy but rather a form of brain training - basically it is like "going to the gym" for the brain. However, when we optimize brain functioning an extremely wide range of areas have the potential for improvement as the brain helps to mediate every other system of the body. Areas such as mood, sleep, nervous system, memory, cognition, immune system, energy levels, digestion, allergies, focus, emotional regulation, headaches including migraines, and more are all areas where improvements may occur.
Although there has not yet been time for adequate research to be done, there have been many anecdotal reports in relation to long covid.
During sessions, you can simply relax. Taking naps, reading, answering emails, playing games on a phone or tablet are all completely fine during NeurOptimal sessions. This system has been used on patients in comas with positive results. Sometimes parents of small children on the spectrum may run sessions on their children during sleep. Kids who struggle with homework, often find their homework much easier when they do it while having a NeurOptimal session.
NeurOptimal Pricing
Those accessing NeurOptimal with me who are based in Ontario and have extended health plans that cover social workers, may be reimbursed for their sessions, within the limits of their plan.
NeurOptimal Rental System Packages
Discounts and free local delivery within Ontario are often available, please enquire for details.
Up to 20 sessions, over 4 weeks......$800 ($40 per session)
Up to 50 sessions, over 4 weeks......$1000 ($20 per session)
Up to 100 sessions, over 4 weeks.....$1200 ($12 per session)
Feel free to share your sessions with friends and family. If a child is doing brain training it is ideal if at least one parent is also having sessions.
When people do brain training together they tend to "synch up" better and feel more connected. As we begin to improve we are able to support the improvements of others.
Neurofeedback units are also available for purchase. Should you choose to purchase your own unit after renting one from me, I will rebate up to $100 of your rental fee. Please enquire for details prior to purchasing.
VR
Koji's Quest (VR) Program is a fun and engaging gamified approach to neurological and cognitive rehabilitation. When approaches are fun they are easier to stick with! Great for kids and adults alike. So far I am seeing wonderful improvements with my own executive functioning and noticeable improvement with post concussion syndrome.
Koji's Quest Virtual Reality (VR) Program For Cognitive Rehabilitation
Claiming neurplasticity - permanent change - with neurological rehabilitation requires repetition. Although many approaches to neurological transformation are not necessarily difficult, they are frequently not terribly engaging.
The Netherlands based Neuro-Reality company has gamified cognitive rehabilitation with their VR game Koji's Quest.
Click here to watch a video about Koji's Quest
Click here to explore the different Koji's Quest worlds
Koji's Quest Pricing:
Please note: You will need to purchase your own Meta Quest headset - "renewed"/reconditioned systems are often available on Amazon at a discount
Monthly fee (pay as you go): $160 CDN (approx $120 US)
3 Month access: $400 CDN (approx $295 US)
6 Month access: $720 CDN (approx $530 US)
Family Discounts:
Additional family members accessing Koji's Quest in the same time period are 50% off.
Koji's Quest Worlds
About Koji's Quest
iLs
iLs Focus is another wonderful offering from Unyte-iLs, the SSP company. iLs Focus is wonderful for kids and adults alike. Helpful for those who are neurodivergent, those with auditory processing disorders, a history of trauma, acquired brain injury and more. Another wonderful option to either follow SSP with, or prepare for SSP.
With Focus we combine specially-treated music, bone conduction headphones, and air conduction technology together with physical movement.
This allows Focus to support brain integration and skill-building for anyone. It is wonderful for those with sensory-motor and neurodevelopmental challenges.
Those with concerns such as autism, ADHD, learning difficulties, auditory & sensory processing disorders, brain injury, trauma, sensory sensitivities, sound sensitivities, and more.
Ideal for both children and adults, the Focus System is easily integrated together with other modalities that may be being accessed.
Focus is also easily integrated into daily life.
Ideally iLs Focus is listened to for approximately 3-5 hours per week. Sessions can be done in either 30 minute or one hour increments.
For each full hour of listening, ideally about 15 minutes of special Focus "activities" will be done. These are things such as standing on one leg, tossing a bean bag, playing with a ball, using a balance board, and more.
Over the course of the listening program(s), as brain functioning is improved, the activities will become easier. As this happen the level of challenging with each activity is raised slightly and, as the higher levels are fully mastered, we then move on to new activities.
For the remainder of each hour of listening, both. kids and adults move on to doing other things. For adults this could involve tidying the house, doing yard work, cooking, getting ready for work, going for walks, etc...
For kids this may be different forms of playing. Using fine motor and gross motor skills by doing things such as playing with toys, drawing or colouring, gently bouncing on a mini trampoline, going for a walk, riding a bike, climbing, and more.
iLs Focus includes:
Calming Program
Sensory & Motor Program
Concentration & Attention Program
Reading & Auditory Processing Program
Two Optimal Performance Programs
A Playbook and Integration Kit for movement activities
The process begins with a brief written assessment to determine which of the included Focus programs may be relevant for you or your child.
Programs can be combined and condensed in order to shorten overall timeline.
Pricing
NEW!! Focus has moved to a digital delivery format which now allows me to supervise remote use of Unyte-iLs Focus to people located virtually anywhere.
For those local to Brantford, Ontario, I do have a few physical iLs Focus systems on hand so those could be used instead of the app, and no purchase of the activity pack mentioned below, would be necessary.
To receive Focus through the new app - accessible from almost any location - you will also need to purchase an "activity" pack from the Unyte-iLs company for $299 US.
The activity pack includes: an amplifier, bone-conducting headphones, waist pack, balance board, 2 bean bags, 1 racket ball, 1 tethered tennis ball, headband, Playbook, manual and carry bag. You then own the activity pack and, if at some point you no longer have use for it, it can be resold - I will be interested in purchasing some activity packs back from clients myself.
You will use the activity pack together with your own device onto which the Focus app has been downloaded.
Monthly fee (pay as you go): $240 CDN (approx $177 US)
6 month access: $960 (approx $710 US)
12 month access: $1620 (approx $1225 US)
Six and 12 month plans can be broken down into monthly instalments.
Family Discounts:
Additional family members accessing iLs Focus within the same time period are 50% off.
Training
Elevate Your SSP Practice to the Next Level - Two Day Online Event January 25th & January 26th, 2024
Join SSP Yoda for an online two day deep dive that may turn upside down some of what you thought you knew about offering the Safe & Sound Protocol (SSP).
- Date: 25/01/2024 10:00 AM - 26/01/2024 06:00 PM
- Location Online Event
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Register
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Elevate Your SSP Practice January 25th & 26th, 2024. Early Bird Rate till January 10th, 2024
C$495.00
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Pricing is in Canadian currency (approx $365 US) Admits one attendee to attend live. Recording available after training for those unable to attend live.
Elevate Your SSP Practice to the Next Level - January 25th & 26th, 2024. Regular Rate
C$595.00
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Pricing in Canadian Currency (approx $440 US). For one person, attending live. A recording will be available for those unable to attend live.
Total
C$0.00
Groups
Group programs now available. Wonderful at any time including before, during or after Safe & Sound Protocol (SSP) and other services. Covered under extended health plans that cover social workers in Ontario.
Online ADHD & Neurodivergent Women's Group
Are you Interested in connecting with other women with ADHD, ASD, giftedness or other types of neurodivergence? Whether you have been recently diagnosed, have been living with a diagnosis for a while or strongly recognize yourself as neurodivergent, please join us.
Learn MoreOnline Somatic Experiencing (SE) Skills Group
Meet online and connect as we learn and practice somatic experiencing skills to increase nervous system resilience, regulation and flexibility. When our nervous system regulation improves a whole other host of physical, emotional, mental health and trauma related concerns tend to improve as well. Whether you are interested in your own healing, in learning skills that you can teach to your child or to use with clients - please join us.
Learn MoreOnline Group SSP Practitioner Consultations
Are you interested in connecting with other likeminded SSP providers? Do you have cases you want to consult about or questions you'd like to ask but prefer a group format? Please join us! TBA If you would like to arrange SSP practitioner consultations for your agency or other group of providers, please contact info@SspYoda.com
For Providers
Two Day Online SSP Training: Elevate your SSP Practice to the Next Level - January 25th & 26th, 2024
Join SSP Yoda for an online two day deep dive that will greatly expand and may even turn upside down what you thought you knew about offering the Safe & Sound Protocol (SSP).
Learn MoreIndividual Consultations for Safe & Sound Protocol (SSP) Providers
Individualized one on one attention. Focus upon case consultation, expand your confidence and knowledge base with SSP, ideas for how to integrate SSP into your practice, and more.
Learn MoreOnline Somatic Experiencing (SE) Skills Group
Meet online and connect with like minded others as we learn and practice somatic experiencing skills to increase nervous system resilience, regulation and flexibility. Somatic experiencing skills are wonderful for everyone - this group is open to all. Whether you are interested in your own healing, learning skills that you can teach to your child, or expanding your skill set as a practitioner who works with others - or all of the above! - please join us.
Learn MoreOnline Group SSP Practitioner Consultations
Are you interested in connecting with other likeminded SSP providers? Do you have cases you want to consult about or questions you'd like to ask but prefer a group format? Please join us! TBA If you would like to arrange SSP practitioner consultations for your agency or other group of providers, please contact info@SspYoda.com
Learn MoreF.A.Q
Answers to frequently asked questions about SSP. If you have a question that is not answered here, please get in touch!
Blog
Read the long list of areas that can potentially improve with SSP
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An update on Amy and Jasper's latest response to SSP. Jasper has suddenly had a huge burst of affection - his response on previous rounds of SSP were milder. This has really taught me the benefits of repeating SSP.
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Read how Amy, a 5 month old puppy with anxious aggressive barking and sound sensitivity, is responding to her first round of SSP.
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Watch as I am being interviewed by the parent of a little boy on the spectrum that I did SSP with. Related topics covered are using SSP with those with trauma, and neurofeedback and the similarities and differences between them.
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Jasper, my rescue dog's response to a second round of SSP. He is no longer afraid of fireworks, thunderstorms, or even loud crashing and banging right at his own home.
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My own journey, so far over the course of three rounds of SSP
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Jasper - a 5 year old rescue dog - and his response to the Safe & Sound Protocol (SSP), a 5 hour auditory intervention
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In addition to her previously noted gains, five weeks post SSP, Maggie is no longer showing territorial behaviours nor aggression towards other dogs
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A couple of weeks post SSP, my dog has dramatically less pain, improved assertiveness, better ability to read social cues, and is barking less. :)
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The SSP uses the auditory system as a portal to the vagus complex, which controls our physiological state. Once physiological state is regulated, we feel calmer, happier, more confident, and more able to engage with others. The SSP boosts the effectiveness of other approaches and therapies being accessed.
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An easy way to boost happiness
Read MoreContact
- info@sspyoda.com
- Monday - Thursday 10am - 5pm ET
Please message here to contact any of our therapists. Please note that it may take up to 48 business hours (Mon-Thurs) to receive a reply, due to a high volume of enquiries.