A sound-based nervous system intervention for deeper regulation
SSP uses filtered music to shift the autonomic nervous system toward safety and connection. This evidence-based protocol supports emotional resilience, sensory integration, and healing from chronic stress or trauma.
What is SSP?
The Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) is a nervous system listening therapy designed to help regulate your body’s stress response, increase feelings of safety, and support emotional healing. Developed by Dr. Stephen Porges, creator of Polyvagal Theory, SSP uses specially filtered music to stimulate the vagus nerve and calm the autonomic nervous system.
This isn’t talk therapy—it's a somatic, bottom-up intervention that works by improving the body’s ability to feel safe and connected.
Who is it for?
SSP is a gentle and powerful support for individuals experiencing:
Chronic anxiety or stress
Emotional dysregulation
Sensory sensitivities
Trauma responses
ADHD or attention issues
Shutdown, numbness, or overwhelm
It’s also helpful for those who’ve plateaued in talk therapy or want to deepen their connection to body-based healing.
How does it work?
SSP involves listening to custom-designed music through over-ear headphones in a quiet, calm environment. This can be done in-person or remotely, and is often paired with supportive check-ins and co-regulation with your provider.
The program unfolds over several phases:
Connect: Intake, education, and preparation
Core: Listening to the main protocol (5 hours total), spread out over multiple sessions or weeks
Integrate: Supporting your system’s adjustment after the core protocol with continued check-ins, integration tools, and optional follow-up listening
The pacing is highly individualized—some complete the core protocol in two weeks, others take a few months. Slowness and safety are prioritized.
What to Expect
Sessions may be in person or virtual, depending on what works for your needs.
You’ll receive guidance on how to prepare your space, what to expect during and after listening, and how to track your system’s responses.
We’ll work together to ensure the protocol feels supportive, not overwhelming, and adapt the process based on your nervous system's cues.
FAQs
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The base price is $400, which can be paid up front or over time with an agreed-upon payment plan.
This rate is chosen based on all that is included in your experience through the protocol:
Sessions for program introduction, Polyvagal Theory education, and tech preparation/set-up
My supervision and presence to support the tracking of your nervous system without any pressure around timing or frequency of sessions for the first hour of listening (in-person or virtual)
Protocol planning and 15 minute check-ins bi-weekly until your 5 hours are completed
Access to the proprietary technology even after you are done with your protocol for up to 6 months for maintenance and continued use
I will be more involved at the beginning, and your work will become progressively independent over time, usually by the time you're at hour 2 of 5 hours of listening. I will still be available for check-ins and reflections, and planning your future listening session schedule.
If you would like more extensive integration sessions, discussions, or support from me, I am always happy to schedule a 1-hour coaching call at any time at a discounted rate of $100/hour.
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No. SSP is a therapeutic tool that can complement other forms of therapy or stand alone as a nervous system support. It is not intended to replace ongoing mental health treatment for complex trauma or psychiatric conditions.
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Yes. SSP can be delivered remotely, as long as you have over-ear headphones and a quiet, safe space. We’ll stay in close contact throughout the process.
We can discuss details in your intake session.
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Experiences vary—some people feel relaxed, others notice emotions, memories, or fatigue arise. All responses are welcomed and tracked with curiosity. I provide guidance and support throughout.
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If you’re currently in a highly unstable or unsafe environment, actively in crisis, or experiencing untreated psychosis, we may need to pause or adapt the approach.
Also, if you have a history of tinnitus, I will use discretion based on your medical details, and we may test with a short session. We do not want to aggravate or trigger your tinnitus, so this may be contraindicated for you.
