OMAHA, Neb. (WOWT) – The sound of clippers buzzing can make a routine haircut terrifying for some kids, but at one salon, the lights, music, and speed are all in the clients’ control.
Joanay Turner is a hairstylist and ABA therapist for children with autism. Between her two careers, she’s noticed a trend when giving haircuts.
“A lot of times with parents that have kids that have ADHD or Autism, or any sensory aversions, a lot of time there’s a lot of shame and embarrassment when they come in and are having a full-on meltdown,” Turner said.
Those meltdowns often stem from sensory overload. The buzzing clippers, stray hairs on clothes and face, all while bright lights shine from above can overwhelm clients.
That’s why Turner is giving families a new option — combining her therapy and hairstyling skills to start a one-on-one sensory salon.
Rising autism diagnoses create need for specialized services
“You come in and you get comfortable with the environment, get comfortable with the services. So it relieves the stress from the kid and it relieves the stress from the parent,” Turner said.
Dr. Alice Shillingsburg with the Munroe-Meyer Institute says options like this are increasingly valuable as autism diagnoses increase.
“As we’ve learned more and more about Autism we’ve learned more and more about what it can look like and how it can show up in the life of a person. So because of that the diagnostic criteria have changed and broadened. So that naturally leads to more people meeting those criteria,” Shillingsburg said.
Shillingsburg shared that in 2022, one in 31 children were diagnosed with autism. Two decades ago it was one in 110. Adult diagnoses are on the rise too — something Turner is familiar with.
“When I was 35 – so once I got help I talked to the doctors and they diagnosed me with Autism and ADHD,” Turner said.
Personal experience creates connection with clients
Her diagnosis gives her a unique way to connect with neurodivergent clients.
“I had a lot of the sensory aversions, like to sounds and stuff like that when I was a kid, and with working and doing hair I definitely see a lot of that. It’s like a silent relatability with the clients – like, I’ve been there,” Turner said.
Turner will dim the lights, turn down the music and offer fidget toys or frequent breaks. Whatever it takes to make her clients feel comfortable.
Turner requires a consultation ahead of time to get to know her clients. She is taking clients now and is not the only sensory friendly salon in Omaha. Her salon is meant for everyone, not just those with autism. Appointments can be booked online.