About the Safe and Sound Protocol

The Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) is an evidence-informed auditory intervention designed to support nervous system regulation through specially filtered music.

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The Safe and Sound Protocol is a therapeutic listening program developed by Dr. Stephen Porges, creator of polyvagal theory. This non-invasive approach uses specially processed music that has been filtered to emphasize frequencies associated with human speech and social engagement. By listening to this modified music through headphones, individuals may experience shifts in how their autonomic nervous system responds to stress and perceived safety.

SSP is often used alongside other therapeutic approaches and may be helpful for those experiencing anxiety, sensory sensitivities, or difficulty with emotional regulation. The protocol is typically delivered by trained practitioners who guide clients through a structured listening experience over multiple sessions. First Session connects you with a growing network of Canadian therapists who offer the Safe and Sound Protocol as part of their practice.

Rima Sehgal

Registered Psychotherapist
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Offers In-Person (Toronto, ON)
Virtual Sessions in ON, YT, NU, MB, and SK.
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Rima Sehgal

Rima Sehgal

Registered Psychotherapist
She/her
$190/session
Anger, Anxiety, Anxiety and Stress Management Skills, Attachment trauma, Attachment wounds, BIPOC, Blocks in Connecting with Self and Others, Break-up recovery, Building Self-Care Routines, Burnout, Childhood trauma, Coming out and identity, Depression coping skills, Emotional regulation, Familial and social relationships, Life transitions, Low Self-Esteem and Self Worth, Maternal mental health, Men's issues, Parenting, Relationships, School challenges, Trauma, Workplace stress, Grief and Loss
Anger, Anxiety, Anxiety and Stress Management Skills, Attachment trauma, Attachment wounds, BIPOC, Blocks in Connecting with Self and Others, Break-up recovery, Building Self-Care Routines, Burnout, Childhood trauma, Coming out and identity, Depression coping skills, Emotional regulation, Familial and social relationships, Life transitions, Low Self-Esteem and Self Worth, Maternal mental health, Men's issues, Parenting, Relationships, School challenges, Trauma, Workplace stress, Grief and Loss
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Ciara Williams

Registered Social Worker
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Offers In-Person (Greater Sudbury, ON)
Virtual Sessions in ON.
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Ciara Williams

Ciara Williams

Registered Social Worker
she / her
$150/session
Trauma, Relationships, Anxiety, Anxiety and Stress Management Skills, Assertiveness, Boundaries and boundary setting, Burnout, Childhood trauma, Coming out and identity, Dealing with difficult or narcissistic personalities, Connecting with your Inherent Power, Depression, Existential questions, Emotional regulation, Highly Sensitive Person, Intergenerational trauma, Low Self-Esteem and Self Worth, Navigating challenging relationships, Neurodiversity, Oppressive family dynamics, People pleasing, PTSD, Spirituality, Trauma processing
Trauma, Relationships, Anxiety, Anxiety and Stress Management Skills, Assertiveness, Boundaries and boundary setting, Burnout, Childhood trauma, Coming out and identity, Dealing with difficult or narcissistic personalities, Connecting with your Inherent Power, Depression, Existential questions, Emotional regulation, Highly Sensitive Person, Intergenerational trauma, Low Self-Esteem and Self Worth, Navigating challenging relationships, Neurodiversity, Oppressive family dynamics, People pleasing, PTSD, Spirituality, Trauma processing
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What is the Safe and Sound Protocol?

The Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) is a therapeutic listening intervention based on polyvagal theory. Developed by Dr. Stephen Porges, it uses specially filtered music delivered through headphones to help support the regulation of the autonomic nervous system. The protocol aims to promote feelings of safety and calm by stimulating the neural pathways associated with social engagement.

How does the Safe and Sound Protocol work?

SSP works by playing music that has been processed to emphasize specific sound frequencies—particularly those in the range of human speech. These frequencies are thought to engage the middle ear muscles and stimulate the vagus nerve, which plays a key role in regulating our physiological state. Over the course of several listening sessions, this auditory input may help shift the nervous system toward a calmer, more regulated state.

Who might benefit from the Safe and Sound Protocol?

Many people find SSP helpful as part of a broader therapeutic plan. It is often explored by individuals experiencing anxiety, stress-related difficulties, auditory sensitivities, or challenges with emotional regulation. Some parents also seek SSP for children who may struggle with attention, social engagement, or sensory processing. A trained practitioner can help determine whether SSP might be a suitable approach for your specific needs.

What does an SSP session look like?

During an SSP session, you typically listen to the specially filtered music through headphones while in a calm, comfortable environment. Sessions usually last between 30 to 60 minutes and are spread across multiple days or weeks, depending on the practitioner's recommended protocol. Your therapist will monitor your responses and may adjust the pace of the intervention to ensure a supportive experience.

Can SSP be combined with other therapies?

Yes, the Safe and Sound Protocol is often used as a complementary approach alongside other therapeutic modalities. Many practitioners integrate SSP with talk therapy, somatic approaches, or occupational therapy to support overall nervous system regulation. If you're already working with a therapist, you may wish to discuss whether adding SSP could be beneficial for your goals.

How can I find an SSP practitioner in Canada?

First Session's growing network includes Canadian therapists trained in the Safe and Sound Protocol. You can browse practitioner profiles on our platform to find someone who offers SSP and fits your preferences. All therapists on First Session have their credentials verified during onboarding, and many offer introductory videos so you can get a sense of their approach before booking.