From Fear to Calm: Sensory-Friendly Barbering with Henry Tribes

On episode #50, Alta talks with master barber, educator, and inventor Henry Tribes about creating sensory-friendly haircuts for autistic and neurodivergent clients.Henry shares how a weighted blanket inspired his weighted haircut cape, why he pursued Sensory Safe certification, and the strategies he uses to reduce overwhelm—questionnaires, gradual desensitization, music, fidgets, flexible pacing, and zero restraint.Hear the story behind his first spectrum clients, how he supports families, and his mission to expand training and build a sensory-first barbershop. Parents and providers will learn practical ways to turn haircut anxiety into trust, confidence, and dignity.9-29-25