How the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) Supports Children with Autism

A New Tool to Help Kids Feel Safer, Calmer, and More Connected

For many children on the autism spectrum, the world can feel overwhelming—loud sounds, bright lights, unexpected changes, and even social interaction can trigger distress. While therapies like ABA, OT, and speech are often part of a child’s care plan, many parents still notice something missing: a sense of inner safety and calm.

This is where the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) can help.

What Is the Safe and Sound Protocol?

The Safe and Sound Protocol is a science-backed listening program designed to help regulate the nervous system—especially for those who experience the world as unsafe or overstimulating.

Developed by Dr. Stephen Porges (the scientist behind Polyvagal Theory), SSP uses specially filtered music to gently stimulate the vagus nerve, helping the body shift from “fight or flight” into a state of calm and connection.

How SSP Helps Children with Autism

Children with autism often experience sensory sensitivities, anxiety, and difficulty with emotional regulation. These challenges are not just behavioral—they’re often rooted in how the nervous system perceives and responds to the environment.

Here’s how SSP can make a difference:

• Improved Emotional Regulation

  Many parents report fewer meltdowns and more flexibility after SSP sessions.

• Increased Social Engagement

  Children may show more eye contact, interest in others, or willingness to engage.

• Reduced Sensory Overload

  SSP can help reduce reactivity to sound, light, and touch.

• Enhanced Communication

  Some children experience improved speech clarity or spontaneous language.

• Better Sleep and Transitions

  A calmer nervous system often means smoother mornings, bedtimes, and routines.

What Does a Session Look Like?

SSP is delivered through headphones in a quiet, safe space—either in person or at home under the guidance of a trained provider.

Children listen to about 5–30 minutes of specially modified music per session. The experience is always adapted to the child’s comfort level and can include drawing, playing quietly, or sitting with a parent.

It’s not about performing or “doing it right”—it’s about allowing the nervous system to gently experience safety.

Real-Life Outcomes

Parents often notice subtle shifts that grow over time:

“After SSP, my son started coming to sit with us more. He used to avoid touch, but now he asks for hugs.”

“Transitions to school used to be a nightmare—now they’re so much smoother. It’s like he feels safer in his body.”

Every child responds differently, but the goal is always the same: to support the foundation for growth, connection, and self-regulation.

Is SSP a Replacement for Other Therapies?

No—and that’s what makes it so powerful. SSP is designed to complement other therapies by creating a more regulated, receptive state. When the nervous system feels safe, everything else becomes more effective—whether it’s speech therapy, OT, or even daily routines.

Want to Learn If SSP Is Right for Your Child?

If you’re curious whether SSP could support your child with autism, I’m here to help! Reach out to schedule a free consultation or learn more about how SSP can help your child feel calmer, safer, and more connected.

Schedule a free consultation at 808-889-0777

Or purchase a package now

What is the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP)

A New Approach to Healing from the Inside Out

If you’ve ever felt like your body is stuck in “survival mode”—constantly anxious, reactive, or overwhelmed—you’re not imagining it. For many people living with trauma, anxiety, sensory sensitivities, or chronic stress, the nervous system can stay on high alert even when the danger has passed.

That’s where the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) comes in.

What Is SSP?

The Safe and Sound Protocol is a non-invasive, evidence-based listening therapy developed by Dr. Stephen Porges, the neuroscientist behind Polyvagal Theory. It’s designed to calm the nervous system, improve emotional regulation, and help you feel safer in your body and relationships.

At its core, SSP uses specially filtered music to stimulate the vagus nerve, which plays a key role in regulating your sense of safety, stress response, digestion, and connection to others.

Who Is SSP For?

SSP can be used with both children and adults, and it supports a wide range of challenges, including:

• Anxiety and chronic stress

• Trauma and PTSD

• Autism spectrum disorders

• ADHD

• Sensory processing difficulties

• Emotional regulation issues

It’s especially helpful for people who haven’t found full relief through talk therapy alone or need a body-first approach to healing.

How Does It Work?

SSP is delivered through specially processed music, listened to via over-ear headphones in a calm, safe environment—either at home or with a trained provider.

The music isn’t just soothing—it’s scientifically engineered to activate the social engagement system of the brain and body and to stimulate the vagus nerve. Over time, this helps shift the nervous system out of “fight or flight” and into a state of safety, rest, and connection.

Sessions are short (typically 5–30 minutes) and can be customized based on your needs and sensitivity level.

What Are the Benefits?

Many people report:

• Feeling calmer and more grounded

• Improved sleep

• Less emotional reactivity

• Greater tolerance for stress

• Enhanced focus and social connection

These benefits often continue to build in the weeks following the protocol, as your nervous system becomes more flexible and regulated.

Why SSP Is Different

SSP isn’t a quick fix—but it is a powerful foundation for healing. Whether you’re in therapy, recovering from trauma, or simply looking to feel safer and more connected, SSP can help you shift from survival mode to thriving.

Ready to Learn More?

To learn more check out www.whatisthessp.com

If you’re curious about how SSP might support your healing journey, I’d love to talk with you.

Schedule a free consult to get started. 808-889-0777