Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP)
Do you feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or stuck in survival mode—even when you’re trying your best?
If your nervous system is always on high alert, if sounds or sensations feel too intense, or if you struggle to stay calm, focused, or present in your body—you are not alone.
Many of us, especially those navigating neurodivergence, trauma, chronic pain, anxiety, or sensory issues, have nervous systems that are doing their best to protect us… but often stay stuck in fight, flight, or freeze.
That’s where the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) can help.
What Is the Safe and Sound Protocol?
The Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) is a research-based listening therapy developed by Dr. Stephen Porges, the creator of Polyvagal Theory. It uses specially filtered music to calm the nervous system and support better emotional regulation, sensory processing, and internal awareness.
The music is designed to activate the vagal nerve—a key part of the body’s regulation system—helping you move out of survival mode and into a place of safety, presence, and connection. SSP is not a talk-based approach. It works by delivering specially filtered music designed to stimulate the vagus nerve and shift the body out of fight, flight, or freeze—supporting deeper regulation and resilience from the bottom up.
SSP is a gentle, non-invasive approach that works from the bottom up.
Who Is SSP For?
The Safe and Sound Protocol is especially helpful for:
Neurodivergent individuals (ADHD, autism, OCD, sensory processing sensitivity)
Those experiencing chronic anxiety or emotional dysregulation
People with sensory sensitivities or sensory overload
Those recovering from trauma or early attachment wounds
Individuals living with chronic pain or chronic illness
Anyone who feels disconnected from their body or struggles with interoception (knowing how you feel inside)
How SSP Helps
SSP can gently support:
A more regulated nervous system
Increased tolerance to sensory input like sound, light, or touch
Better body awareness (so you can notice hunger, fatigue, stress, etc.)
Improved emotional insight and self-regulation
Greater resilience to stress
A stronger sense of connection to yourself and others
Reduction in chronic pain flare-ups by shifting the body out of high alert
Questions? Complete the form below to contact us!
Meet Your SSP Provider
Cammie Terry, LPC, NCC, ADHD-CCSP, is a licensed psychotherapist who specializes in supporting teens and adults with ADHD, trauma, depression, and anxiety. Her work integrates nervous system education and somatic techniques to help clients feel more connected to themselves and their bodies. As a trained SSP provider, Cammie offers a calm, attuned, and individualized approach to SSP delivery.
Ready to Begin?
If you're ready to explore a body-based approach to healing—whether you're navigating trauma, chronic stress, sensory overload, or neurodivergence—the Safe and Sound Protocol can offer a powerful reset for your nervous system.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP)
1. What does a typical SSP session look like?
During a session, you'll listen to specially filtered music through headphones while we create a safe, supportive space for your nervous system to respond and settle. Each session is gentle and tailored to your needs—there's no pressure to talk or do anything specific. You’ll be guided through before and after the listening to help you stay grounded and regulated.
2. How many sessions will I need?
Everyone’s nervous system is different. Some people notice shifts after just a few sessions, while others benefit from a slower, more gradual process. Most clients start with a 5-hour listening protocol that’s broken up into short sessions over several weeks. We’ll work together to find a pace that feels safe and sustainable for you.
3. Is SSP only for neurodivergent individuals?
Not at all. While SSP is especially supportive for ADHD, autism, sensory sensitivities, and emotional regulation challenges, it’s also incredibly helpful for people healing from trauma, living with chronic anxiety, or managing chronic pain or illness. SSP supports the nervous system—so anyone feeling stuck in fight, flight, freeze, or shutdown may benefit.
4. Can SSP be done virtually?
Yes! SSP can absolutely be done virtually. You’ll need over the ear headphones (not earbuds), a quiet space, and a willingness to pause and check in with yourself. I’ll guide you through the process via video, just like I would in person, and we’ll move at a pace that works for you.
Getting Started
All clients begin with a 60-minute SSP intake session ($200). During this appointment, the provider will:
Review nervous system history and goals
Introduce the SSP protocol and pacing options
Begin a few minutes of listening, if appropriate
Collaborate with the client on a personalized SSP plan
SSP Access Fee
In addition to the intake session, there is a one-time SSP access fee of $350, which includes:
Access to the SSP music platform for up to 5 months
A customized pacing and session plan
Integration tools and nervous system support
Between-session check-ins via email, if needed
If the client wishes to continue with SSP after 5 months, a new intake session and access fee will be required to reassess progress, update the pacing plan, and renew access.
Safe & Sound Protocol in Ashburn, VA
44075 Pipeline Plaza, #300
Ashburn, VA 20147