Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) for Nervous System Regulation
An evidence-informed listening intervention designed to support nervous system regulation, social engagement, and resilience.
The Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) is an audio-based nervous system intervention developed from Dr. Stephen Porges’ Polyvagal Theory. Through specially filtered music and supportive guidance, SSP works with the auditory system and nervous system to support greater feelings of safety, connection, and regulation.
What Is the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP)?
The Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) is a non-invasive, evidence-informed nervous system regulation intervention that uses specially filtered music to support the autonomic nervous system. Developed from the Polyvagal Theory research of Dr. Stephen Porges, SSP is designed to help the nervous system recognize cues of safety, increase capacity for social engagement, and support emotional regulation.
Through listening to acoustically processed music, SSP may help individuals improve their ability to attune to human voices, interpret the emotional meaning of communication, and feel more at ease during interpersonal interactions. Many clients experience increased self-regulation, greater resilience, improved connection with others, and an enhanced ability to engage in learning, relationships, and everyday activities.
My Approach to the Safe and Sound Protocol
Beginning SSP can be a powerful experience, and my approach centers on creating a safe, supportive, and individualized process. For first-time SSP clients, I provide guidance and co-regulation while clients complete the SSP Core program.
Throughout the SSP process, I integrate complementary trauma-informed approaches, including Somatic Experiencing® (SE), SE Touch (when appropriate), art, movement, and other body-based practices. These approaches help clients stay connected to their internal experience while supporting nervous system regulation and integration.
My goal is to ensure that clients feel supported, grounded, and empowered throughout SSP. Rather than pushing through discomfort, we focus on pacing, safety, and helping the nervous system build greater capacity for connection, regulation, and resilience.
Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) Support for Individuals, Families, and Practitioners
The Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) can be a meaningful opportunity for intentional co-regulation between loved ones, supported by a trained somatic practitioner. Through a paced and relational approach, SSP sessions create space for nervous system support, connection, and greater awareness of each person’s unique responses and needs.
Clients may experience shifts such as increased social engagement, improved connection and communication, greater ease in relationships, reduced overwhelm, and increased capacity for emotional regulation. SSP may also support individuals experiencing anxiety, stress, auditory sensitivities, and challenges related to nervous system dysregulation by helping build resilience and flexibility.
My role during the SSP process is to provide guidance, attunement, and support while helping clients move through the protocol at a pace that feels manageable. Sessions are offered virtually through secure video sessions or in person when available. Each session is approximately one hour, though pacing and listening time may be adjusted based on age, nervous system capacity, and individual needs.
After listening to the SSP music, we use session time for integration and processing through trauma-informed approaches, including Somatic Experiencing®, and, when appropriate, co-regulating touch. This combination allows clients to not only complete the listening protocol but also build awareness, safety, and connection within their own nervous system.
SSP services are available for individuals, families, current therapy clients, and through collaboration with other therapists who would like to offer SSP support to their clients. Fees include my hourly session rate along with an onboarding fee for access to the MyUnyte platform and SSP music.