Safe and Sound Protocol
Helping the nervous system feel safe, calm, and ready to heal.
What Is the Safe and Sound Protocol?
At The Meadows, we offer the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) as part of our comprehensive residential treatment. Developed by Dr. Stephen Porges and grounded in Polyvagal Theory, the SSP is a gentle listening therapy that uses specially filtered music to support nervous system regulation.
What Does the Safe and Sound Protocol Do?
By sending signals of safety to the body, the SSP helps individuals move out of chronic defense states, such as anxiety, hypervigilance, or shutdown, and into a place where connection and healing become possible. This creates a stronger foundation for both therapeutic work and daily life.
Benefits may include:
- Reduced anxiety, stress, and sound sensitivity
- Improved emotional balance and regulation
- Increased GI function, greater sense of safety, and decreased pain
- Enhanced ability to connect with others and engage in therapy
Who It Helps
The Safe and Sound Protocol can be effective for children, adolescents, and adults. It may support those living with trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism, or sensory processing challenges.
Supporting Recovery at the Meadows
Delivered by trained providers, the SSP is a flexible, evidence-based intervention that integrates seamlessly with our programs. Many providers and families find that SSP accelerates progress by helping patients feel calmer, safer, and more ready to participate fully in treatment.