Safe and Sound Protocol
At ROOTS, we provide the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP), a listening-based intervention designed to support nervous system regulation and help individuals feel more calm, connected, and engaged in their daily environments.
Learn More About SSP
Developed by Dr. Stephen Porges and based on Polyvagal Theory, the program uses specially filtered music to gently stimulate the auditory system and support the body’s ability to access states of safety.
The program consists of five hours of therapeutic listening that can be completed over a period of days, weeks, or a few months depending on each individual’s needs. Sessions are guided by a trained provider who monitors comfort and helps tailor the pacing of the program.
SSP is often used to support individuals who experience challenges with sensory processing, emotional regulation, attention, anxiety, and social engagement. By supporting the nervous system’s ability to regulate and respond to the environment, SSP can help create a foundation for growth in other areas of development and participation in daily life.
Why Nervous System Regulation Matters
Our nervous system plays an important role in how we experience stress, connection, focus, and emotional regulation. When the nervous system is able to access states of safety and calm, it becomes easier to engage socially, manage emotions, and participate in daily activities.
The Safe and Sound Protocol supports the nervous system’s ability to shift toward regulation and safety. For children, this can support engagement, learning, and social connection. For adults, SSP is often used alongside mental health support to help regulate stress responses and improve the capacity for connection, emotional processing, and well-being.
SSP for Children
For children, the Safe and Sound Protocol supports the nervous system’s ability to access states of safety and regulation. When children feel more regulated, they are often better able to engage, connect, and participate in daily activities.
At ROOTS, SSP is incorporated into a child’s individual occupational therapy treatment plan and paired with therapeutic activities that support regulation, engagement, and development.
SSP for Adults
The Safe and Sound Protocol is also available for adults and can be especially supportive for individuals who are working with a mental health professional. By supporting nervous system regulation, SSP can complement therapeutic work focused on stress, emotional processing, and overall well-being.
Adult SSP programs are often completed through telehealth, allowing individuals to participate from the comfort of their own environment while being supported by a trained provider.
What to Expect
The Safe and Sound Protocol includes five hours of specially filtered music that are listened to using headphones. Listening is typically completed in shorter segments over a period of days or weeks depending on each individual’s needs and responses.
Sessions are guided by a trained provider who monitors comfort, regulation, and pacing throughout the process. As occupational therapists, we may also engage in supportive conversations about sensory preferences, daily routines and environments, and introduce body-based grounding strategies that help support regulation during and between listening sessions.
Because each nervous system responds differently, the program is individualized to support a positive and supportive experience.
For Telehealth participation in the Safe and Sound Protocol, the following equipment is required:
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Over-the-ear headphones (recommended for optimal sound delivery)
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A device capable of downloading the SSP listening app, such as a smartphone or tablet
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A second device for Telehealth sessions, such as a computer or laptop, to connect with your provider via client portal
Your provider will guide you through the setup process before beginning the program.
Interested in Trying SSP?
If you are interested in learning more about the Safe and Sound Protocol or would like to explore whether it may be a good fit, we welcome you to reach out. We are happy to answer questions and discuss how the program may support you or your child.