The Transformative Potential of the Safe and Sound Protocol for Anxious Attachment

The Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) is a therapeutic intervention designed to regulate the autonomic nervous system, which plays a crucial role in managing emotions and responses, particularly in relation to anxiety and attachment issues. Developed by Dr. Stephen Porges, the SSP is rooted in the Polyvagal Theory, emphasizing the importance of the vagus nerve in regulating emotional states.

Here's how the SSP can help individuals with anxious attachment:

  • Polyvagal Regulation: The SSP aims to enhance polyvagal regulation, promoting the body's ability to shift between states of social engagement, calmness, and mobilization. For someone with anxious attachment, this can lead to more stable emotional states and improved social interactions.

  • Reducing Hypervigilance: Anxious attachment often involves hypervigilance to potential threats in relationships. The SSP helps reset the nervous system, reducing the constant state of alertness and allowing for a more balanced perception of social cues.

  • Improved Social Engagement: By targeting the vagal pathways associated with social engagement, the SSP facilitates better social connection. Individuals with anxious attachment may find it easier to establish and maintain relationships, as the protocol supports a sense of safety and trust in social interactions.

  • Emotional Regulation: The SSP contributes to emotional regulation by fostering a more adaptive response to stressors. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals with anxious attachment, who may experience intense emotional reactions in relationships.

  • Enhanced Self-Awareness: Through the process of engaging with the SSP, individuals may gain a deeper understanding of their bodily responses and emotional states. This increased self-awareness can empower individuals to navigate relationships more effectively.
The effectiveness of the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) varies among individuals, and many have reported significant positive shifts in their emotional regulation and social engagement, nevertheless, these shifts differ from person to person.

Clients engaging in SSP can experience notable improvements, with some achieving substantial changes in their emotional states and attachment patterns. Note however that individual responses can be influenced by various factors, including the severity of anxious attachment and other unique aspects of one's personal history and physiology. It's crucial to approach the SSP with an open mind, recognizing the potential for positive transformations while acknowledging that the nature and pace of these changes may vary. Overall, the goal is to provide a tailored and effective intervention for each individual's specific needs.
The Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) can serve as a valuable supplement when integrated into an existing therapeutic relationship, coaching, or mentoring process. 

Considerations for SSP and Decreasing Anxiety

The Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) stands out as a promising tool in the journey toward easing anxious attachment. By specifically targeting the physiological underpinnings of attachment patterns, it has demonstrated substantial positive shifts for many individuals. Clients engaging in the SSP often experience notable improvements in emotional regulation, social engagement, and overall well-being.

Importantly, the SSP serves as a beacon of hope and a valuable addition to the toolkit for managing anxious attachment. It's designed to complement and enhance ongoing therapeutic or coaching work, providing a unique avenue for change. Clients have reported transformative experiences, with some noticing profound shifts in their emotional states and interpersonal dynamics.

While the SSP is a powerful intervention, it's essential to view it as part of a holistic approach to mental health. Anxious attachment involves intricate psychological and relational aspects, and the SSP addresses a specific facet related to physiological regulation. It's not a "cure" in isolation, but rather a dynamic component that, when integrated into a comprehensive treatment plan, can rapidly promote positive change.

Clients are encouraged to approach the SSP with optimism, recognizing its potential to contribute significantly to their growth and well-being. Individual responses may vary, and the journey is unique for each person. The SSP, combined with ongoing therapeutic or coaching support, offers a promising path toward fostering more secure attachment and improving overall life satisfaction.

Considerations and Precautions for Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) Participation

While I strive to offer the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) to a wide range of individuals seeking positive transformation, it's important to note that certain precautions and contraindications exist.

To ensure the safety and well-being of my clients, I may need to exercise discretion when working with women who have specific medical or psychological conditions. While this doesn't mean we can't work together, it's crucial for us to assess your individual needs comprehensively.

If you have concerns or conditions such as active self-harm, active suicidal ideation, bi-polar disorder, borderline personality disorder (other modulation disorders), psychosis or on anti-psychoptic medications, tinnitus, or seizures, I kindly ask you to reach out for a preliminary consultation. This will allow us to discuss your unique situation, explore potential alternatives, and determine the most suitable path forward for your well-being.

My goal is to provide you with the highest quality care tailored to your needs, and open communication is key in navigating these considerations together. I appreciate your understanding and look forward to the opportunity to support you on your journey to well-being.
Criteria for Effective Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) Engagement
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  • You are already in therapy, or working with a coach or mentor — if you don't have an existing therapist or coach, I can provide you with the necessary support.
  • You can commit to 10 to 20 days of therapeutic listening to the filtered healing music for 15 to 30 minutes per day. 
  • You are not actively engaging in self-harm or suicidal ideation.

Safe & Sound Protocol Listening Therapy
Pricing Packages

By choosing an SSP package, you're not just participating in a proven protocol; you're embarking on a journey toward enhanced emotional well-being and improved interpersonal connections. I am committed to providing you with the tools and support you need to make the most out of your SSP experience.
  • Standard Foundational SSP Package — €460 EUR / ₤400 GBP / $500 USD
    • Two attended sessions (First and Last Sessions; I will be with your during these sessions)
    • Access to email and messaging support for the duration of your session SSP program
    • Pre- and post-assessments
    • Plus everything that is included in the Comprehensive SSP section below

  • Enhanced SSP Package — €700 EUR / ₤600 GBP / $750 USD
    • Three attended sessions (First, Middle, and Last Sessions; I will be with your during these sessions)
    • Access to email and messaging support for the duration of your session SSP program
    • Pre- and post-assessments
    • Plus everything that is included in the Comprehensive SSP section below
 
  • Complete SSP Package — €1150 EUR / ₤1000 GBP / $1250 USD
    • Three attended sessions (First, Middle, and Last Sessions; I will be with your during these sessions)
    • Access to email and messaging support for the duration of your session SSP program
    • Pre- and post-assessments
    • BONUS: an additional 60-minute Session specifically on Navigating Your Emotions
    • EXTENDED access to SSP app and features for an ADDITIONAL TWO MONTHS after the end of core SSP program (three months of program access in total!)
    • Plus everything that is included in the Comprehensive SSP section below

​You are invited to contact me if you have any questions, or if you're ready to start your SSP journey.


This IS a Comprehensive SSP Experience!
Here's What's Included in Every Package Detailed Above.

The Safe and Sound Protocol offering is designed to provide you with a comprehensive and transformative experience. Here's what's included in every SSP package:

Initial Psychoeducation Session
  • A 60 Minute in-depth introductory session to the Safe and Sound Protocol.
    • Understanding the underlying principles and science behind SSP.
    • Personalized discussion addressing your specific concerns and goals.
    • Opportunity for you to ask questions and gain clarity about the process.
 
Full SSP Engagement
  • Customized SSP listening sessions 15 to 30 minutes a day for 10 to 20 days, tailored to your unique needs.
  • Guided support throughout the protocol to ensure a comfortable and effective experience.
  • Email check-ins to monitor your progress and address any emerging questions or insights.

 Final Assessment Session
  • Thorough evaluation of your SSP journey and its impact on your well-being.
  • Reflection on changes observed in emotional regulation and social engagement.
  • Discussion of next steps and potential further strategies for continued growth.
  • You will continue to have access to the SSP listening program for an additional one month post program completion.
Optional Program Additions Available!

I am dedicated to working with you to guarantee that the effects of the protocol are both long-lasting and transformative.  Because I understand that you may want to get the most out of your time with the program, I offer optional additions to enhance and reinforce your Safe & Sound Protocol experience.
  • Co-regulation Package — €1400 EUR / ₤1200 GBP / $1,500 USD
    • I will be there with you for as many of your SSP sessions as you like (up to 10 hours of session time together is included)

  • Two Months of Extended SSP Program Access Add-on — €460 EUR / ₤400 GBP / $500 USD
    • Extended access to SSP app and features for an additional two months after the end of core SSP program (for those in the Standard or Enhanced packages; this is already included in the Complete package)

  • Two Session of One-on-One Personal Program Follow-up — €325 EUR / ₤275 GBP / $350 USD
    • Two 60-minute follow up sessions in the months following the end of the program

  • Per Session Program Support — €185 EUR / ₤160 GBP / $200 USD (per session)
    • Therapy support sessions during the time-during and/or the time after participation in SSP
    • 60 minute sessions

Tana Vanessa Espino, this website, any web links, its contents, and any linked material are presented for informational purposes only and are not a substitute for personal advice, therapy and mental health expertise, the diagnosis, treatment, or prescribing of relationships and mental health issues. Nothing contained in or accessible from this website or blog should be considered to be a diagnosis, treatment, or prescribing, or a promise of benefits, legal warranty, or guarantee of results to be achieved.
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