Safe & Sound Protocol (SSP)
A neuroscience-informed listening therapy to support nervous system regulation and emotional resilience.
The Safe & Sound Protocol (SSP) is an evidence-based auditory intervention designed to support nervous system regulation, help reduce stress and emotional reactivity, and improve social engagement and connection. It was developed by Dr. Stephen Porges, the creator of Polyvagal Theory, which explains how our nervous system evaluates safety and threat in the environment and influences how we think, feel, and connect with others.
How SSP Works
SSP uses specially filtered music delivered through headphones in a structured series of listening sessions. This music emphasizes the frequency range of the human voice, which the nervous system naturally interprets as cues of safety. By engaging the auditory system in this way, SSP helps support regulation of the autonomic nervous system — the part of the nervous system responsible for balancing states of activation (like stress or “fight/flight”) and calm/social engagement.
This unique approach gently “retunes” how the nervous system perceives safety and can make it easier for the body and brain to respond with regulation, presence, and connection rather than defense or shutdown.
What to Expect
SSP is typically delivered in multiple listening sessions, totaling approximately five hours of specially filtered music.
Sessions can be completed in person with a trained provider or remotely, with pacing individualized to your needs.
The experience is not “talk therapy” — rather, it’s a nervous system regulation support that prepares the body for deeper engagement in other therapeutic work.
Many people report feeling grounded, calmer, more present, and more able to engage in relationships and life activities after completing the protocol.
Who SSP May Help
SSP has been used with both children and adults and may support people experiencing:
Stress, anxiety, or emotional overwhelm
Trauma or post-traumatic stress patterns
Sensory processing differences or sound sensitivities
Challenges with social engagement or connection
Emotional regulation difficulties
Reactivity to internal or external cues
Researchers and clinicians view SSP as a complementary intervention — meaning it enhances and supports other therapeutic work (such as psychotherapy, somatic therapy, or regulation-focused modalities) rather than replacing them.
Why Nervous System Regulation Matters
Our nervous system continuously scans for safety through cues in our body, environment, and interactions with others. When the nervous system is stuck in states of threat (e.g., fight, flight, freeze), it becomes harder to feel safe, think clearly, or connect meaningfully with others. SSP helps shift the nervous system toward a state where safety and social engagement are more readily accessible — creating a foundation from which deeper emotional and relational work can unfold.
Getting Started with SSP at Meadowlark
If you’re interested in exploring the Safe & Sound Protocol as part of your healing journey or therapeutic process, you’re welcome to reach out to discuss whether SSP is a good fit. Appointments can be scheduled for in-person or remote sessions depending on your location and preference.