What Is the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP)?

FAQ with 3 Rivers Counselling - SSP Providers

If you're exploring ways to support your nervous system, reduce anxiety, or improve emotional regulation, you may have come across something called the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP). At 3 Rivers Counselling, we offer Quiet Mind, our uniquely designed SSP program, to clients across Canada and internationally. Below, we’ve answered the most frequently asked questions to help you decide if SSP is right for you.

Experiencing the supportive effects of the Safe and Sound Protocol guided by trauma-informed therapists, all from the comfort of home.

What is the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP)?

The Safe and Sound Protocol is a five-hour, music-based listening therapy designed to support regulation of the autonomic nervous system. Developed by Dr. Stephen Porges, the SSP uses specially filtered music to stimulate the vagus nerve and gently guide the nervous system out of a fight/flight or freeze state and into a calmer, more socially engaged state.

What is the Quiet Mind program?

Quiet Mind is our in-house SSP delivery program at 3 Rivers Counselling. It includes:

• A customized 12-week access to the SSP playlist

• Two 30-minute therapy sessions with a certified provider

• Optional add-on sessions for additional support

• A trauma-informed, neurodiversity-affirming framework

• Available to clients worldwide, with flexible virtual delivery

This program was thoughtfully developed by our team to offer more than just SSP access—it creates a container for integration, reflection, and nervous system safety.

Who is SSP for?

SSP can support both children and adults. It's often helpful for people who experience:

• Anxiety or chronic stress

• Sensory processing challenges

• ADHD or Autism

• Emotional dysregulation

• Trauma or attachment wounds

• Nervous system sensitivity (shutdown, overwhelm, etc.)

It’s also used to prepare clients for deeper therapy, such as EMDR or parts work, by improving nervous system capacity and emotional regulation.

What does an SSP session feel like?

You’ll listen to music that’s been specifically filtered to stimulate the middle ear muscles and vagus nerve—this may sound simple, but it has a profound effect on your body’s sense of safety. You might notice subtle shifts in mood, energy, sleep, or even digestion as your system begins to regulate.

Our Quiet Mind program ensures you’re supported with a therapist who helps you tune in to these changes and integrate them into your life.

Is SSP safe for everyone?

The SSP is gentle but powerful. Because it works directly with the nervous system, it’s important to work with a trained provider who can pace the listening, track your responses, and offer adjustments based on how your system is reacting. That’s why all SSP programs at 3 Rivers are delivered with individualized support and preparation.

SSP is for the whole family.

Can I do SSP remotely?

Yes! SSP was designed with flexibility in mind. Our team supports clients virtually across Canada and internationally, making it easier than ever to access this powerful intervention from the comfort of your own home. All you need is a pair of over-ear headphones and a quiet space.

Is SSP covered by insurance?

SSP is delivered as part of a therapy program, so sessions with a licensed therapist may be covered under your health benefits plan in Canada. Contact us for more details or to check if your provider qualifies.

How do I get started?

You can book a free consult with one of our therapists to see if SSP is right for you. Our Quiet Mind program was designed to help you feel calm, connected, and in control—without needing to “talk through” everything right away.

Final Thoughts

At 3 Rivers Counselling, we’re proud to be a certified SSP provider offering trauma-informed, neurodiversity-affirming care to clients near and far. Whether you’re dealing with chronic stress, burnout, or just want to feel more grounded, SSP through our Quiet Mind program may be the next step on your healing journey.

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Brittany Rickett - Clinic Director

About the Author

Brittany Rickett, Bachelor of Education, MA in Counselling Psychology, CCC, CCS LCT

Brittany Rickett, MA, LCT, CCS, is a licensed therapist and the Clinic Director of 3 Rivers Counselling in St. Stephen, New Brunswick. With over a decade of experience in education before moving into clinical work, Brittany brings a grounded, compassionate approach to therapy that blends neuroscience with evidence-based modalities. She integrates EMDR, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Somatic work and Polyvagal-informed practices, supporting clients through trauma, stress, and life transitions.