Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) | Julia Scott

Introducing the SSP

The Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) is an evidence-based listening programme, developed from Dr Stephen Porges’ research on the Polyvagal Theory, which spans four decades.

I am a certified SSP provider, offering the SSP as an optional adjunct to EMDR or other trauma-informed therapy, but not as a standalone intervention. Please note that I only provide the SSP to adults.

What does the SSP involve?

The SSP is a listening programme, in which specially-filtered music progressively trains your auditory system to focus on sound frequencies resembling that of the human voice. By stimulating the facial and vagus nerves via the middle ear, it sends cues of safety to your nervous system, helping you to feel more settled, engaged and balanced.

What to expect from the SSP

The role of the listener

During a listening session, you will listen to the music, whilst engaging in light activity such as breathing exercises, stretches or drawing (if you wish). It is important you let me know of any feelings or sensations that arise, whether emotional or physical, so that your listening plan can be adjusted to suit the needs of your individual nervous system as they evolve over time. Less is more when it comes to the SSP, so listen to the “whispers” of your nervous system before they become “shouts”! You are listening to and honouring your nervous system’s needs, not simply listening to the music.

The role of the provider

As your certified SSP provider, I will be your guide along your SSP journey. I will make sure that you are prepared before you start listening to the music, and will recommend a personalised listening plan for you. I will provide psychoeducation answer any questions you may have, and prepare you for all that you may experience once you begin. During the listening, I will monitor your progress and make sure you are progressing through the programme at a pace which is right for your individual nervous system.

The Science

The Autonomic Nervous System (ANS)

The autonomic nervous system (ANS) plays a vital role in regulating various bodily functions, including heart rate, blood pressure, respiratory rate, digestion, metabolism, and other processes that occur automatically and unconsciously. The ANS consists of two main branches with opposing functions: the sympathetic (“fight or flight”) nervous system and the parasympathetic (“rest and digest”) nervous system. The two branches work together to maintain homeostasis and ensure the body’s survival by responding to different environmental and internal stimuli. The balance between these two branches is crucial for adapting to various situations and promoting overall wellbeing.

The Polyvagal Theory

The Polyvagal Theory, proposed by Dr. Stephen Porges explains the role of the vagus nerve in regulating the autonomic nervous system and its impact on social behaviour and emotional regulation. The theory suggests that the vagus nerve has evolved over time, leading to a hierarchical organisation with three distinct branches, each associated with different adaptive responses. The ventral vagal branch, developed the most recently in our evolution, supports social engagement and connection, promoting feelings of safety and well-being. The sympathetic branch prepares the body for fight or flight responses. The dorsal vagal branch, on the other hand, is linked to immobilisation and shutdown responses, marking a more primitive and defensive reaction to perceived threats. The Polyvagal Theory highlights how the autonomic nervous system influences our physiological and emotional states, impacting our ability to engage with others and navigate social interactions.

Unresolved trauma can cause the autonomic nervous system to become stuck in defensive states, so that it becomes more attuned to cues of danger than to cues of safety. This can result in symptoms such as anxiety, depression, dissociation, an exaggerated startle response, emotional outbursts, and, over time, physical conditions, including chronic pain and digestive problems.

It is worth noting that collective trauma too can cause our nervous systems to become dysregulated; maybe you’ve noticed a difference in your wellbeing since the COVID pandemic or as a consequence of prolonged media exposure to conflict in the world. You may notice more tension or pain in your body, more fatigue or a sense of disconnection or isolation. Individual differences will play a part in how your own nervous system responds to trauma and other stressors.

Because the SSP retunes your nervous system to better respond to cues of safety, it rebalances your nervous system so that it can respond appropriately to cues of safety as well as to cues of danger, so that you can feel calmer, more resilient and more connected.

The SSP is not a panacea, but can support and even accelerate your trauma recovery.

For more information about the SSP and to take a free screening questionnaire, please visit my SSP site.