Safe and Sound Protocol
Introducing the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP)
The Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) is a listening-based therapeutic intervention developed by Dr. Stephen Porges, grounded in Polyvagal Theory. It uses specially filtered music to gently stimulate the vagus nerve, helping to regulate the nervous system, reduce stress responses, and increase feelings of safety and connection. SSP can support trauma recovery by improving emotional regulation, social engagement, and resilience.
The Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) can be particularly effective for individuals with Complex PTSD (CPTSD) because it works directly with the body’s autonomic nervous system—the part often dysregulated by chronic trauma. CPTSD commonly leaves the nervous system stuck in states of hypervigilance, shutdown, or emotional numbness. SSP uses specially filtered music to engage the vagus nerve and promote a sense of safety, helping the body shift out of survival states and into calm, social engagement. Over time, this physiological regulation supports deeper emotional processing, connection, and the capacity to benefit from trauma-focused therapies.
How to do the SSP
The SSP typically runs for about 5 hours of listening, divided into short daily sessions (often 15–60 minutes) over a few days or weeks, depending on the person’s sensitivity and needs. It’s usually delivered through headphones under the guidance of a trained practitioner, either in-person or remotely.
SSP helps the body shift from a defensive or shutdown state into a calmer, more socially engaged state. Use the “Contact” button if you have any questions.