Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP): A Path to Nervous System Regulation

SSP is especially helpful for individuals dealing with anxiety, trauma, chronic pain, or sensory sensitivities by calming the nervous system and reducing heightened alertness. This helps people feel more grounded, less reactive, and better able to handle everyday challenges.

For those who struggle with emotional regulation, SSP supports managing overwhelming emotions like frustration or sadness, leading to more balanced responses and healthier relationships.

It also benefits individuals, including children and adults, who have difficulty connecting with others due to social anxiety or trauma. By helping the nervous system recognize safety cues, SSP fosters security and makes it easier to engage in meaningful relationships and social situations. For children with sensory sensitivities, it reduces reactivity to stimuli, helping them feel calmer and more focused.

To participate in the Safe and Sound Protocol, you’ll need:

• Non-noise-canceling over-the-ear headphones

• A smartphone or tablet to access the SSP app

• A quiet, safe space where you can fully focus on the music

• Dedicated time for listening to the specially filtered tracks—whether during therapy sessions or on your own

Some potential reactions to the Safe and Sound Protocol include temporary discomfort, such as increased anxiety, restlessness, or emotional sensitivity. You may also notice a heightened awareness of physical sensations or an increase in sensitivity to triggers as your nervous system settles. These responses are usually short-lived and are part of the process of helping your nervous system recalibrate. It’s important to go at a pace that feels right for you, and I’ll be here to support you through any challenges along the way.

SSP is not suitable for individuals with unmanaged psychosis or certain neurological disorders, such as epilepsy. Additionally, while the Safe and Sound Protocol may potentially help with tinnitus, there is a possibility that it could worsen the condition. Because of this, SSP should be approached with caution if tinnitus is present.

SSP follows the principle of "safe before sound," meaning that certain life or health factors may require us to delay or use SSP carefully to ensure the best possible outcome.

Yes, SSP can be integrated with other therapies and is often combined with Somatic Experiencing in my practice. Many clients find that blending SSP with somatic therapy sessions deepens their healing, as Somatic Experiencing helps release stored stress and trauma while SSP works to retune the nervous system. This combination offers a more comprehensive approach, helping clients feel more grounded, connected, and resilient in both their emotional and physical well-being. It can also complement talk therapy by addressing both the body’s responses and the mind’s emotional patterns.

For kids under 13:

• The child is the one listening to SSP, but you, as the parent or caregiver, play a key role as the co-regulator. You’ll sit with your child during sessions to help them feel safe and supported while they listen.

• Sessions can also happen with me online, where your child listens to SSP with you present. I’ll guide both of you throughout the process.

• You’ll be responsible for checking in with me via email and during our monthly phone calls, but I will also need to see your child for at least a few minutes during our monthly video check-ins.

For teens ages 13–17:

• How your teen listens to SSP depends on their individual needs. They may listen with you or with me during sessions, or we may use a combination of both.

• While I’ll still ask you for basic observations (like changes in your teen’s sleep, appetite, or mood), it’s important to respect their privacy. Your teen won’t be listening on their own without supervision.

This process ensures that both you and your child feel supported, with my guidance every step of the way. We’ll work together to find the best approach for your child’s unique needs.