Safe & Sound Protocol (SSP)
A Sound-Based Path to Nervous System Regulation and Relational Healing
“When we are in a defensive state, then we are using metabolic resources to defend. It’s not merely that we can’t be creative or loving when we’re scared; we can’t heal.”
— Dr. Stephen Porges,
The Pocket Guide to the Polyvagal Theory
Safe & Sound Protocol (SSP)
A Sound-Based Path to Nervous System Regulation and Relational Healing
“When we are in a defensive state, then we are using metabolic resources to defend. It’s not merely that we can’t be creative or loving when we’re scared; we can’t heal.”
— Dr. Stephen Porges,
The Pocket Guide to the Polyvagal Theory
What is SSP?
The Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) is a five-hour, evidence-based therapeutic listening intervention developed by Dr. Stephen Porges, grounded in Polyvagal Theory. It uses filtered music to gently stimulate the vagus nerve and help the nervous system shift from defense to safety and connection.
By engaging the inner ear and brainstem, SSP helps improve emotional regulation, resilience, and social engagement. It is especially supportive for those healing from trauma, chronic stress, anxiety, or attachment wounds.
How SSP Works
Filtered Frequencies
Music processed through a patented algorithm designed to promote safety and regulation.
Inner Ear Activation
Stimulates middle ear muscles to help the brain better detect cues of safety in voice and sound.
Nervous System Retuning
Delivered in small, titrated segments to allow for gradual adaptation and integration.
Nervous System Retuning
A provider’s attuned presence enhances the healing potential through embodied resonance.
Read "Safe and Sound: A Polyvagal Approach for Connection, Change, and Healing by Stephen Porges, PhD and Karen Onderko. Paula is a featured practitioner in this book.
You can choose from six curated playlists, depending on your needs and musical preferences:
- Groove / Groove Instrumental – Rhythmic rock & instrumental by Jim Donovan, M.Ed
- Freely – Calming ambient music by AZA Stephen Allsop, M.D., Ph.D
- Classical Flow – Timeless orchestral selections
- Original – Familiar pop and cover songs
- Wonder – Disney and uplifting classics
Preview & Learn More About SSP Playlists
Research Spotlight: Freely Playlist
Rhythmic Regulation with Groove
Contact Us to Begin
Ready to explore how SSP can support your healing and integration journey?
Register here to schedule a free 30-minute consultation.
“Paula’s intuitive, wise, compassionate presence while listening to the SSP transformed life-inhibiting somatic, relational, and emotional narratives held by parts of myself into life-sustaining narratives... I unreservedly recommend that you invite her into your process.”
— Gail E. Gnade, Ph.D., Clinical Psychologist, CCTP-II, EMDR Certified