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