The Safe and Sound Protocol
Does your child (or nervous system) seem constantly overwhelmed, reactive, anxious, shut down, or stuck in survival mode?
The Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) is an evidence-based listening therapy designed to reduce sound sensitivities and improve auditory processing, behavioral state regulation, and social engagement behaviors through filtered music.
"We live on the leash of our senses. There is no way to understand the world without first detecting it though the radar-net of our senses." - Diane Ackerman
Support for nervous system regulation, sensory overwhelm, and emotional connection
The Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) is a listening-based program designed to gently support the nervous system through specially filtered music.
SSP is often used to support individuals experiencing:
-
sensory overwhelm
-
emotional dysregulation
-
anxiety or hypervigilance
-
shutdown or freeze responses
-
difficulty feeling calm or connected
-
stress and nervous system overwhelm
-
challenges with social engagement and connection
The program is designed to help the nervous system experience greater safety, regulation, flexibility, and resilience over time.
How SSP Works
SSP uses specially designed music intended to support the nervous system and the body’s ability to shift toward states of regulation and connection.
Listening sessions are personalized and paced carefully based on each individual’s nervous system responses and capacity. Support is provided throughout the process to help the experience feel manageable, supportive, and individualized.
Who May SSP Support?
SSP may benefit:
-
neurodivergent children and adults
-
highly sensitive individuals
-
individuals experiencing sensory processing differences
-
those navigating chronic stress or burnout
-
children with emotional regulation challenges
-
individuals experiencing anxiety, shutdown, or overwhelm
-
people seeking additional nervous system support alongside therapy or wellness practices
What Support Looks Like
Support is personalized to your unique nervous system needs and may include virtual consultations, individualized listening recommendations, pacing guidance, and ongoing check-ins throughout the program. The process is designed to feel supportive, flexible, and manageable from home, with adjustments made based on your responses and goals.
Support offerings may include:
-
Initial consultation and nervous system support planning
-
Personalized listening schedules and pacing recommendations
-
Weekly or biweekly virtual check-ins
-
Guidance around sensory regulation and nervous system support
-
Education about regulation, stress responses, and nervous system states
-
Adjustments to listening plans as needed
-
Messaging or email support between sessions
-
Caregiver support when appropriate
Common Questions
What does SSP feel like?
Each person’s experience with SSP is unique. Some individuals notice feelings of calm, connection, improved regulation, or increased awareness, while others may experience periods of fatigue, emotional processing, or nervous system activation as the body adjusts. Listening is always individualized and paced based on your nervous system’s responses.
Is SSP completed from home?
Yes. SSP is completed remotely from the comfort of your home using headphones and a listening device, with ongoing guidance and support provided throughout the process.
How long does SSP take?
The listening portion of SSP includes approximately five hours of specially filtered music, but the overall timeline varies from person to person. Many individuals move through the program gradually with personalized pacing and support.
Can SSP be paused or adjusted?
Absolutely. SSP is designed to be flexible and responsive to your nervous system’s needs. Listening schedules can be slowed down, paused, or adjusted at any time to help the process feel supportive and manageable.
Is support individualized?
Yes. Support is personalized based on your goals, nervous system responses, sensory experiences, and overall capacity. Guidance and pacing are tailored to help create a gentle and supportive experience.
I'm always looking forward to meeting new faces and families.
If you’re curious whether my approach may be a good fit, I’d love to connect and answer any questions.