The Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP)
The Origin of SSP
The Safe and Sound Protocol® (SSP) was developed by Dr Stephen Porges and training in its application as well as the tools needed to administer the protocol are available through Integrated Listening Systems (ILS). Dr. Porges is a Distinguished University Scientist, professor at Indiana University, a renowned author, and the founding director of the Traumatic Stress Research Consortium. The SSP is the clinical application of Dr. Porges’ Polyvagal Theory.
The Polyvagal Theory
The Polyvagal Theory describes the evolutionary hierarchy of both adaptive, and maladaptive, nervous system responses, central to which is the vagus nerve. The Social Engagement System (SES) is our highest level and the newest (in evolutionary terms) strategy for self-regulation. It is triggered by signals of safety and puts the brakes on defensive strategies (fight/flight, or freeze), allowing us to rest and digest (our parasympathetic system).
If we sense danger, however, the SES will release the brakes to engage a more primitive response: that of fight or flight (our sympathetic system). And if we detect life threat, our response may devolve even further to immobilization, or freezing behavior (like a deer in the headlights). None of these responses can be reasoned; they all occur unconsciously via neuroception—the body’s ability to perceive threat outside of our awareness.
The Neurology of Safety and the Human Voice
The SSP is a five-session auditory intervention designed to reduce stress and auditory sensitivity while enhancing social engagement and resilience. It calms the physiological and emotional state and, in five sequential sessions, has shown significant results in:
Dysregulation Defined
Dysregulation is a deviation from, or some impairment in, the regulation of a physiological or psychological process.
How SSP Employs the “Frequency of Safety”
In the protocol, the music " ...provides a key that can unlock the numbed, deeply embedded ancient brain, allowing an individual to engage and interact with people, experiencing results that can be breathtaking." "When we feel totally safe... the nervous system optimizes the neural pathways necessary for health, growth, and physical and mental healing."
- S. Porges, Q&A About Freezing, Fainting, and the ‘Safe’ Sounds of Music Therapy
The Safe and Sound Protocol® (SSP) was developed by Dr Stephen Porges and training in its application as well as the tools needed to administer the protocol are available through Integrated Listening Systems (ILS). Dr. Porges is a Distinguished University Scientist, professor at Indiana University, a renowned author, and the founding director of the Traumatic Stress Research Consortium. The SSP is the clinical application of Dr. Porges’ Polyvagal Theory.
The Polyvagal Theory
The Polyvagal Theory describes the evolutionary hierarchy of both adaptive, and maladaptive, nervous system responses, central to which is the vagus nerve. The Social Engagement System (SES) is our highest level and the newest (in evolutionary terms) strategy for self-regulation. It is triggered by signals of safety and puts the brakes on defensive strategies (fight/flight, or freeze), allowing us to rest and digest (our parasympathetic system).
If we sense danger, however, the SES will release the brakes to engage a more primitive response: that of fight or flight (our sympathetic system). And if we detect life threat, our response may devolve even further to immobilization, or freezing behavior (like a deer in the headlights). None of these responses can be reasoned; they all occur unconsciously via neuroception—the body’s ability to perceive threat outside of our awareness.
The Neurology of Safety and the Human Voice
The SSP is a five-session auditory intervention designed to reduce stress and auditory sensitivity while enhancing social engagement and resilience. It calms the physiological and emotional state and, in five sequential sessions, has shown significant results in:
- Social and emotional difficulties
- Auditory sensitivities
- Anxiety and trauma-related challenges
- Inattention
- Stressors impacting social engagement
Dysregulation Defined
Dysregulation is a deviation from, or some impairment in, the regulation of a physiological or psychological process.
How SSP Employs the “Frequency of Safety”
In the protocol, the music " ...provides a key that can unlock the numbed, deeply embedded ancient brain, allowing an individual to engage and interact with people, experiencing results that can be breathtaking." "When we feel totally safe... the nervous system optimizes the neural pathways necessary for health, growth, and physical and mental healing."
- S. Porges, Q&A About Freezing, Fainting, and the ‘Safe’ Sounds of Music Therapy
The Origin of SSP
The Neurology of Safety and the Human Voice
Dysregulation Defined - abnormality or impairment in the regulation of a metabolic, physiological, or psychological process.
How SSP Employs the “Frequency of Safety”
The Neurology of Safety and the Human Voice
Dysregulation Defined - abnormality or impairment in the regulation of a metabolic, physiological, or psychological process.
How SSP Employs the “Frequency of Safety”