Sound Therapy
Sound Therapy for Auditory Hypersensitivity: Unyte iLS "Calming" Program
Description: The Unyte iLS (Integrated Listening Systems) "Calming" program is an evidence-based listening therapy that helps shift the nervous system to be more present and regulated while improving client capacity for connection and receptivity to other therapies. This therapeutic intervention uses specially filtered music to help individuals whose nervous systems are hypervigilant to sound, gradually reducing their sensitivity to background noise and loud sounds.
Mechanism of Action: The program works through nervous system regulation by delivering specially filtered music through over-the-ear headphones via the Unyte Health app. The therapy is based on Dr Stephen Porges' Polyvagal Theory and operates by sending cues of safety through specially filtered music, engaging a system of muscles and nerves that support social engagement, stimulating the vagus nerve.
Clinical Applications: Research indicates that sound-based interventions like the iLS system can be effective for individuals experiencing auditory hypersensitivity. A systematic review of primary research examining sound-based interventions to reduce auditory hypersensitivity and regulate emotion or behaviour found preliminary evidence highlighting improvements in depression and anxiety symptomatology and improved behavioural outcomes including language, listening, and social behaviours.
Treatment Outcomes: According to peer-reviewed research, sound therapy clearly has application as a method of desensitization for hyperacusis. The theoretical basis suggests that certain forms of sound therapy can reduce neural hyperactivity, thereby reducing auditory gain. Clinical reports indicate that individuals using the system experience improved tolerance to everyday environmental sounds.
Program Structure: Typical ILS programs are 20-40 sessions in length, 2-5 times per week. Each session is 30-60 minutes long, and the therapy can be delivered both in clinical settings and at home. The "Calming" component specifically targets nervous system regulation to help individuals become less reactive to auditory stimuli.
Evidence Base: While there is no contemporary evidence for the use of sound therapy in adults with hyperacusis according to some reviews, emerging research supports the neuroplastic changes possible through auditory intervention. Neuroplastic changes associated with prolonged low-level noise show evidence of reversing enhanced neural gain, which should theoretically reduce percepts of tinnitus and/or hyperacusis.
This therapy represents a non-invasive approach to helping individuals develop greater tolerance to environmental sounds by working at the level of nervous system regulation rather than simply masking or avoiding problematic sounds.
£80.00 GBP every month
