Ok, let’s address the big ol’ elephant in the room here – Safe and Sound Protocol criticisms. You’ve no doubt come across many criticisms or outright negativity about the Safe and Sound Protocol. In fact there is, ahem, one particularly prominent article online that gets a lot of attention regarding SSP’s downsides and flaws.
While we don’t wish to personally call anyone out, we do NEED to address the shocking amount of misleading statements and information presented in this particular post – and other unhelpful threads.
SSP is not without its potential faults. In fact – I’ve had bad experiences with SSP. But there were very good reasons for that, and those reasons are very easy to avoid when armed with knowledge and a skilled practitioner.
Here, we’ll factually tackle some common Safe and Sound Protocol criticisms head-on—not to argue, but to clarify – so you better understand what SSP is, how it works, and how to get the best out of the program.
Hint: you just need a good practitioner.
Before We Dive In…
Before we jump into dispelling specific myths from popular blogs, let’s take a moment to run through some other commonly cited SSP criticisms and how we address them.
1. Limited Research and Evidence Base
The Critique: Some critics argue that SSP lacks sufficient rigorous, large-scale studies to validate its effectiveness across diverse populations.
The Reality: While SSP doesn’t yet have the breadth of research that some interventions boast, it is grounded in Dr. Stephen Porges’ Polyvagal Theory, which has been extensively studied in neuroscience and psychology.[*] There is also some very impressive published data on SSP’s effectiveness in supporting:
- Functional neurological disorder[*]
- Autism spectrum disorder [*]
- Digestive and sensory sensitivities [*]
There is also a huge body of clinical evidence and real-world success stories demonstrating SSP’s effectiveness across a range of health concerns.[*]
2. Accessibility and Cost
The Critique: Access to SSP can feel restrictive given the cost some providers charge for the program.
The Reality: We understand that if you are considering SSP, you have likely already poured thousands of dollars into looking for solutions to your health conditions. We’ve been there ourselves. That is why we offer a budget-friendly monthly subscription that includes access to SSP, unlimited support, and video courses to support your journey. This flexible model ensures that SSP is accessible to as many people as possible without compromising on quality.
3. Variability in Results
The Critique: Responses to SSP vary widely, with some individuals experiencing significant benefits and others seeing little to no improvement.
The Reality: Like any therapeutic intervention, SSP isn’t one-size-fits-all. Outcomes depend on factors like individual nervous system sensitivity, pacing, and practitioner guidance. With a skilled practitioner who tailors the protocol to your needs, the likelihood of meaningful results increases significantly. What’s more, we understand that when it comes to your health EVERYTHING matters. SSP is at its most effective when complemented by other healthy lifestyle practices – and we can help guide you on those too.
4. Potential for Overwhelm in Trauma Survivors
The Critique: For individuals with significant trauma histories, SSP can be intense and cause more damage.
The Reality: This concern highlights the importance of microdosing and consistent practitioner care. A good practitioner starts with extremely short listening sessions—sometimes just seconds—and adjusts pacing based on your nervous system’s feedback. Proper pacing ensures that activation feels manageable and supportive, not overwhelming.
In cases when SSP is absolutely not appropriate, a good practitioner will let you know and may redirect you to other modalities that might be a better fit.
5. Critiques of Underlying Polyvagal Theory
The Critique: Some scholars question the scientific validity of Polyvagal Theory, suggesting it may oversimplify the complexities of the autonomic nervous system.[*]
The Reality: Polyvagal Theory has been widely embraced in clinical and therapeutic settings for its ability to explain how the nervous system responds to safety and threat. While no theory is without critique, Polyvagal Theory provides a valuable framework for understanding how SSP works and why it helps regulate the nervous system.[*]
6. Reports of Adverse Effects with Improper Pacing
The Critique: Increased instances of anxiety, emotional flooding, or sensory sensitivities have been reported when SSP is not properly tailored to an individual’s needs.
The Reality: These issues underscore the importance of working with a skilled practitioner. Proper pacing—starting small and adjusting as needed—minimizes adverse effects and ensures the process remains safe and effective.
And as above, if SSP is not for you, then your practitioner should let you know.
If there’s one takeaway from these criticisms, it’s this: SSP isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution, and the success of your experience depends heavily on the quality of your practitioner, and your suitability for the program.
Now let’s take a look at busting some myths you may have read in those top SSP Google searches.
The Music
Ok, before we get all serious let’s address what can be the most fun part of the SSP – the music!
The Myths:
My meanderings online have so far turned up that people believe the SSP music to be:
“Just pop songs”
“Songs from the 70’s and 80’s”
“Like horror movie music” – please don’t let this one deter you – we will explain this below.
The Facts:
Let’s set the record straight (pun totally intended).
The SSP features six playlists, offering something for everyone. From classical pieces and groovy instrumentals to easy-listening pop and Disney favorites for kids (or nostalgic adults, like myself).
So let’s clear up the 70’s and 80’s pop myth. The SSP “Original” playlist contains easy listening pop and classic rock tunes. Everything from The Eagles to Taylor Swift and Ed Sheeran. Sure there’s some 70’s and 80’s tunes on there, but it’s not short of current covers either.
As for the “horror movie music” claim? Let’s clear that up too. The SSP playlists are a mix of original pieces and covers of well-known songs, all specially filtered to deliver specific frequencies that engage the middle ear muscles and ultimately help reset the nervous system.
This filtration can give the music a unique quality—it might sound tinny or as if it’s playing through an old, crackly record player or a vintage 1950s radio. How this is perceived varies widely depending on an individual’s nervous system sensitivity. While the vast majority of listeners find the music enjoyable, relaxing, and even fun, a small minority may be more sensitive to the filtering. And that’s okay—it’s just another sign of a highly sensitive nervous system.
If the music feels uncomfortable, a skilled practitioner can help make adjustments to ensure you still reap the benefits of SSP. Here are some ways they might support you:
- Microdosing your program: Starting with shorter listening sessions.
- Using speakers instead of headphones: This can soften the sound and reduce sensitivity.
- Switching playlists: Trying a different style of music may feel more comfortable.
- Incorporating adjunct therapies: Additional supports can help regulate your nervous system throughout the program.
- And much more
Don’t let concerns about the music deter you from your SSP journey. Your practitioner is there to ensure you have the most comfortable and enjoyable listening experience possible—whether that means adjusting the program or finding the playlist that feels just right for you.
Too Much Safety
Myth:
SSP can deliver “too much safety,” leading to emotional overwhelm or discomfort.
Facts:
What’s happening here isn’t “too much safety”; it’s a nervous system that hasn’t yet learned to recognize and trust safety cues. For individuals who’ve spent years in survival states—like fight, flight, or freeze—even gentle signals of safety can feel foreign or threatening at first.[*]
SSP is designed to stretch your nervous system’s capacity for safety gradually, building resilience over time. When someone feels overwhelmed, it’s often due to pacing that’s too fast for their current readiness. This is why working with a skilled practitioner is essential—they can guide you through microdosing SSP at a pace that meets you where you are. Even if this just means listening for seconds at a time.
Think of SSP like physical therapy for your nervous system: gentle stretches, not sudden sprints. With the right approach, your system learns to trust those cues of safety, reducing overwhelm and cultivating regulation.[*]
SSP Pacing: Trial and Error or Expert Guidance?
Myth:
Figuring out the right pace for SSP is a frustrating and stressful trial-and-error process.
Facts:
While we respect this experience, it highlights why SSP isn’t meant to be self-guided.
When you work with a knowledgeable practitioner, pacing isn’t guesswork—it’s a collaborative process tailored to your unique nervous system needs. A skilled practitioner will start with manageable time limits, which can be as short as 1–5 seconds per session. Yes, really!
You won’t have to decide mid-session when to stop or wait for signs that your nervous system is struggling. Instead, your practitioner sets a starting point and adjusts as needed.
For most of our clients, we begin with a 1-minute listening session. For those who are extremely sensitive or navigating complex conditions, we may start with just seconds. From there, we adapt based on your levels of “activation”.
What Is Activation?
Activation is the body’s way of signaling that it’s engaging with the SSP. This might look like old symptoms or anxieties resurfacing, or positive shifts like improved sleep or digestion. When SSP is microdosed and delivered in small, manageable increments, activation should always feel comfortable and never overwhelming.
If reactions like strong emotions or intense physical sensations do arise, (it’s rare when microdosing), but it is a sign to slow down, not push through. A skilled practitioner will dynamically adjust your sessions to keep the process supportive and safe.
The Bottom Line: When SSP pacing is managed collaboratively, the process becomes smooth, predictable, and far less stressful than self-directed trial and error.
Misconception of Physical Reactions
Myth:
SSP causes involuntary muscle movements, like a “dancing psoas.”
The Facts:
Let’s clear this up: SSP doesn’t target muscles directly—except for the middle ear muscles, which play a role in auditory processing. While some people might feel tension release or relaxation during or after SSP, dramatic physical responses like “dancing muscles” are incredibly rare and far from typical.
This may have been a very real experience for one individual, but it’s not something most people will encounter. The vast majority of SSP listeners experience subtle nervous system shifts—like feeling calmer, less sensory overwhelm, or a softening of stress.
So, if you’re worried about unexpected bodily reactions, you can rest easy. SSP is about gentle, manageable changes, not dramatic physical responses. There’s nothing to fear here!
Is SSP Ethical?
Another concern we’ve seen raised is whether SSP’s monetization and practitioner involvement make it unethical. Let’s unpack this thoughtfully.
Why Practitioners Are Needed
SSP is a powerful tool, but it’s not a DIY project. Proper pacing, monitoring, and support are critical for success, especially for highly sensitive individuals or those with trauma histories or complex health needs. Reactions can arise, and without proper guidance, they might feel uncomfortable or overwhelming.
Practitioners aren’t gatekeepers—they’re guides. They provide expertise, co-regulation, and tailored support to ensure SSP is delivered safely and effectively. A skilled practitioner is your partner in navigating this journey, helping you feel safe, supported, and empowered every step of the way.
The Cost of Delivering Professional Care
Let’s talk about the practical side of things. Most good practitioners invest significant time, resources, and expertise into supporting clients through SSP. They also pay upfront fees for access to the SSP playlists—for every single client they work with.
Suggesting practitioners shouldn’t charge for their services is, frankly, unrealistic. Compensation isn’t just fair; it’s what allows practitioners to keep providing the high-quality support their clients deserve.
A Solution to Disconnection
Now, here’s the critique that really misses the mark: that SSP is somehow part of “the system” that creates disconnection to sell the solution.
Let’s be clear: SSP wasn’t created by the “system” causing the problem—it’s a response to it. We live in a world where chronic stress, trauma, and disconnection are rampant. Tools like SSP exist to address these issues by providing safe, effective ways to reconnect with ourselves and others.
Developing, delivering, and supporting these tools requires time, research, and resources. Practitioners are not part of the problem—they’re part of the solution.
A Note on Social Media
Let’s face it—we’ve all seen it. Social media is a magnet for complaints and negative experiences. It’s human nature; our brains are wired to focus on the negative, so those are the stories that get amplified.
Yes, you might stumble across Reddit threads or social media posts about intense emotional flooding or heightened sensory sensitivity during SSP. But here’s the thing: these reactions almost always result from pacing that’s too fast—not from the protocol itself.
When SSP is microdosed correctly, activation (those emotional or sensory shifts) is a natural and important part of the process—it’s how we know the program is working. That said, activation should always be minimal and manageable. If it’s not, it’s a clear sign the pace needs to be adjusted.
For our clients, if symptoms ever begin to feel uncomfortable, we have straightforward ways to bring them back to a place of safety. These symptoms subside quickly when addressed, and the process remains smooth and supportive.
In fact, prolonged or unmanageable levels of activation simply don’t happen with our microdosing approach. By starting small—sometimes just seconds at a time—and carefully monitoring progress, we ensure every client’s SSP journey feels safe, comfortable, and effective.
Negative stories might grab attention online, but with proper guidance, SSP can be a gentle, transformative tool—not the overwhelming experience you’ve read about.
What to Look for in an SSP Practitioner—And What to Avoid
If you’ve made it this far, you’ve probably noticed a recurring theme: the right SSP practitioner can make or break your experience.
SSP is a powerful tool, but its effectiveness hinges on having a practitioner who truly understands how to tailor the program to your unique nervous system. So, how do you find the perfect match? Let’s dive into what to look for—and what to avoid like the plague.
What to Look for
Expertise in Pacing and Microdosing
- A good practitioner understands that SSP is not a “one-size-fits-all” protocol. They should start with short listening sessions (sometimes as little as a few seconds) and adjust the pace based on your nervous system’s feedback.
- They’ll know how to recognize and respond to signs of activation, ensuring the process feels manageable and safe for you.
Focus on Collaboration
- The best practitioners work with you as a team. They’ll take time to explain what’s happening, listen to your concerns, and make adjustments based on your feedback.
- They prioritize ongoing communication, asking questions like, “How did you feel this week?” and “Has your activation felt comfortable and manageable?”
Support Beyond Listening Sessions
- Look for a practitioner who provides resources and tools to help you regulate your nervous system outside of SSP sessions. This could include self-regulation techniques, co-regulation practices, or complementary therapies. Our subscription comes with a membership area complete with videos and resources to support your SSP experience.
Accessibility and Responsiveness
- Your practitioner should be available to answer questions and provide support between sessions. Whether it’s through email, messaging, or scheduled check-ins, consistent communication is vital.
A Clear Intake and Assessment Process
- Before starting SSP, a skilled practitioner will conduct a thorough intake to understand your history, current challenges, and nervous system capacity. This step ensures the program is tailored to your specific needs.
Experience with Complex Cases
- If you have a history of trauma, complex chronic conditions, sensory sensitivities, or neurodivergent behaviours, choose a practitioner with experience in handling these nervous system presentations. They’ll have the expertise to navigate the nuances of your situation.
What to Avoid
“Cookie-Cutter” Approaches
- Be wary of practitioners who stick to a set formula for everyone, such as the outdated recommendation of one hour per day for five days. SSP needs to be flexible and personalized to be safe.
Pushing You Too Fast
- If a practitioner insists you “push through” difficult reactions or stick to a pace that feels overwhelming, that’s a red flag. A skilled practitioner knows that slower is always better.
Lack of Communication
- Avoid practitioners who don’t check in regularly, don’t respond to your messages, or dismiss your concerns. SSP MUST be a collaborative process, and your comfort throughout is non-negotiable.
Additional Training or Certifications
- SSP requires specific training and certification through Unyte Health. Most SSP practitioners will also be well versed in other therapies and modalities. Look for a practitioner that understands the nervous system and has an understanding of trauma and high sensitivity.
Overpromising Results
Be cautious of practitioners who claim SSP is a miracle cure or promise immediate results. While SSP can be transformative, it’s not magic, and progress often unfolds gradually over time.
Questions to Ask When Choosing a Practitioner
If you are ready to get started with SSP, we recommend directing these questions at your potential practitioner:
- What is your approach to pacing SSP?
- How do you handle activation or strong reactions during the protocol?
- What kind of support do you offer between sessions?
- Do you have experience working with [specific challenges, e.g., trauma, neurodivergence, chronic conditions]?
- How do you ensure SSP is tailored to my needs?
The Bottom Line
Misunderstandings about SSP often stem from insufficient practitioner support, improper pacing, or unrealistic expectations.
Under the right guidance, SSP has helped thousands of people feel calmer, healthier, more connected, and more resilient. It’s not perfect for everyone, but dismissing it based on anecdotal critiques or misconceptions does a disservice to the individuals it has profoundly supported.
If you’re considering SSP, look for someone who prioritizes collaboration, understands the nuances of pacing, and offers consistent support. Avoid rigid, dismissive, or poorly trained providers who may jeopardize your experience.