SSP stands for Safe and Sound Protocol. The Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) is a powerful listening therapy designed to help regulate the nervous system, so you can better connect with yourself, others and the world around you. You can read more at https://www.whatisthessp.com/

Through the specially filtered music, the SSP sends cues of safety to your nervous system, building the foundation for awareness, embodiment and resilience. To learn more, go to https://www.whatisthessp.com/

The music of the SSP is unlike any other. Each track has been filtered through a patented algorithm that highlights specific sound frequencies that are similar to the human voice. You can read more at: https://www.whatisthessp.com/

As you listen to the music of the SSP, the highlighted frequencies send cues of safety to retune your nervous system, which can help you feel more settled, engaged and balanced. You can read more at: https://www.whatisthessp.com/

Dr. Stephen Porges, a neuroscientist and trauma researcher, created the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP). The SSP is a five-hour auditory intervention that uses filtered music to help people regulate their nervous systems and improve social engagement. It's based on Porges' Polyvagal Theory, which he first proposed in 1995, and is designed to reduce stress and auditory sensitivity while increasing resilience. The SSP is often used by therapists and mental health professionals. You can read more at: https://www.whatisthessp.com/

Your Role As the listener, all that is required of you during a session is to simply listen to the music and to let your provider know of feelings or sensations, whether emotional or physical, that may arise. ​ Your provider may also have you engage in light activity during your listening sessions, such as stretches, breathing exercises, or drawing. Be sure to stay in close communication with your provider, so they can adjust your listening plan to suit your needs. Your Provider's Role Your certified provider will be your guide along your SSP journey. They are trained to make sure that you are ready even before you start listening to the music, and will recommend an individualized listening plan for you. They will provide education, answer all your questions and prepare you for all that you may experience once you begin. ​ During the listening, they will monitor your progress and make sure you are not completing the program too quickly or too slowly. They will support and work with you to find the right pace and conditions for the optimal listening experience for you. ​ If you are a parent or caregiver, you may be the primary listening partner for your child. Follow your provider’s instructions for what activities to do and how to guide your child.

The SSP uses music that you may already be familiar with. The music is filtered through an algorithm that enhances intonation changes within the frequency range of the human voice, training the auditory processing system to attune to cues of safety. There are several playlists available to accommodate different musical style preferences. You will have an opportunity to test them and find the style of music that you like.

You will need: 1) A device to access the SSP app. Devices that can access the app include: Smartphones (either iPhone or Android); Tablets (either Apple or Android); newer Macbooks that have the M1 Chip; or Chromebooks. ​ 2) Headphones. The headphones should be over the ear, that is, have the big padded ear cups that completely surround the ears rather than sit on top. We do not recommend noise canceling headphones (or that feature can be turned off and without bass enhancement). Bluetooth or wireless are fine; but earbuds cannot be used for SSP. An example of an inexpensive pair of headphones is: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N6ZJH96?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details

The SSP may be helpful in reducing symptoms and supporting overall health and resiliency for people seeking support for: Depression and anxiety Neurodevelopmental differences, such as autism, hyperactivity and attention Learning difficulties Sensory processing differences Trauma history Relationship difficulties And more

Yes. Research showing the positive impact of the Safe and Sound Protocol has been published in peer-reviewed academic journals including the Harvard Review of Psychiatry, Frontiers, and more.

Yes. SSP is suitable for children, adults and families, with multiple playlist options to choose from, including classical and popular music

Over 100,000 people have been Helped with SSP. SSP has been used in 70+ countries. Those who've gone through the SSP report improvement and support with anxiety, autism, and more.

Yes. All SSP providers are required to complete an extensive training and certification course prior to delivering the SSP to ensure safe and effective delivery.