Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP)

Think, feel, and connect better through nervous system regulation.

What is Safe and Sound Protocol?

The Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) is a powerful and innovative listening therapy designed to reduce hearing sensitivity and help regulate the autonomic nervous system.

This process helps build the foundation for awareness, embodiment, and resilience.

Beyond listening, you do not have to “do” anything to experience the benefits of SSP.

Safe and Effective for All Ages and Families

The SSP has helped over 100,000 children, adolescents, and adults in more than 70 countries worldwide.

Uniquely, many families experience the SSP together and in support of one another.

Supports Many Symptoms and Conditions

The SSP may be helpful in reducing symptoms and supporting overall health and resiliency for people seeking support for:

  • Trauma history
  • Depression and anxiety
  • Autism, hyperactivity, and attention
  • Chronic pain
  • Chronic health conditions
  • Sensory and auditory processing
  • And more

Works with Other Therapies

The SSP can be combined with and is supportive of other therapies that you may already be engaged in, such as:

  • Occupational, physical, and speech therapy; play therapy, and sensory integration therapy
  • Mental health and trauma therapies, such as EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, and Internal Family Systems (IFS)
  • Talk therapy (CBT, DBT, MCBT, etc)
  • Bodywork, yoga, and other somatic approaches

Multiple Playlists to Choose From

Genres include popular, classical instrumental, and ambient music, offering both vocal and non-vocal, trauma-sensitive options.

The playlist is suitable for all ages.

Listen from Almost Anywhere

You can listen to the music of SSP either in person with your certified provider or remotely from the comfort of your own home, allowing for flexibility and ease.

Your provider will collaborate with out on a listening plan that meets your needs.

Backed by Decades of Research

The SSP’s effectiveness has been proven in a wide range of clinical studies, including clinical trials involving children and adults with autism.

  • Real-world evidence has shown significant improvement in the following areas after the SSP:
  • 61% of clients have anxiety symptoms moved from clinical to non-clinical level
  • 54% of clients with depression symptoms moved from clinical to non-clinical level
  • 63% of clients with trauma-related symptoms moved from clinical to non-clinical level
  • 47% of clients experiencing psychosocial challenges moved from impaired to not-impaired level

How it Works

The music of the SSP has been specially filtered to highlight frequencies of sound that typically make us feel safe. These types of frequencies can be found in everyday sounds, such as:

  • Talking, laughter
  • Musical instruments
  • Water flowing
  • Wind, leaves, rustling

Some people’s nervous systems have a harder time interpreting safety on their own. This can include (but not limited to) individuals who:

  • Have experienced difficult life events
  • Live with an illness or injury
  • Have sensory, learning, or developmental differences

The SSP helps restore this ability by sending “cues of safety” directly to the nervous system, so you can feel more calm, engaged, and balanced.

Why Nervous System Regulation is Essential for Our Well-Being

The autonomic nervous system regulates essential bodily functions. When we feel in danger, this system kicks in to protect us by engaging in what is commonly known as the “fight/flight” or “freeze” responses.

You may be able to identify when your autonomic nervous system is in a defensive state if you notice difficulties with:

  • Breathing
  • Sleep
  • Mental clarity
  • Digestion
  • Concentration
  • Social connection

Benefits of Nervous System Regulation

Improved response to stress

  • Better respond to difficult situations and move past them instead of reacting and getting “stuck” in them.

Ability to access higher learning and cognition

  • Become attuned to and more in control of emotions, so you can move through temporary setbacks with more flexibility and ease.

More social connections and deeper relationships

  • By activating the part of the brain that allows us to be more social, affectionate, and connected, the SSP can help shift you into a state where you are more comfortable and at ease engaging with others, leading to deeper and more meaningful relationships.

THE SAFE AND SOUND PROTOCOL (SSP) FOR PARENTS AND CAREGIVERS

Your Child’s Role

  • Your child will be listening to filtered music as guided by their SSP Provider. Although they can listen less, it is important to not listen more than the time suggested.

Your Role

  • Create a safe place for your child and engage their social engagement system. Smiling, providing positive feedback, and listening to them are all ways to help support their nervous system throughout the program.

Your Provider’s Role

  • Your SSP Provider will support you and your child throughout their SSP experience. Have a conversation with your Provider prior to starting the SSP to discuss the plan for listening.

THE SAFE AND SOUND PROTOCOL (SSP) FOR CHILDREN

What is the SSP?

  • The SSP is music that will sound different from what you hear on the radio. Music has what’s called frequencies, which can be high, thinking of a bird chirping, or low, think of a drum beating. The music within the SSP focuses on frequencies that can help us feel calm.

Your Role

  • Listen to the music and let me know how you are feeling. Give me signs such as a thumbs down if you’re feeling upset or a thumbs up if you’re feeling calm and happy. You can take the headphones off and take a break anytime.

The Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) for Adults

Your Role

  • Listen to the SSP as guided by your provider. Keep an open mind and honest conversation with your provider regarding your thoughts, feelings, sensations, and overall experience. Notify your provider of any discomfort during or after listening. Surround yourself with a supportive environment, which may include people, pets, or things that provide a sense of safety.

CONSULTATION

Your healing matters—and it starts with one intentional step.

Connect with Debra Wallace, MS, LMFT for a personalized consultation through the Positive Reframe Therapy Portal.

Call (312) 463-9163 or reach out Online to begin creating space for growth and peace.