More Than Just a Trim: Why Your Hairdresser Feels Like a Therapist
So I am sat waiting for the ‘dye to take’ at my hairdressers, I come here every 6weeks or so and have had the pleasure of ‘our Janice’ in my life for the last 10yrs or so. We were talking about the types of conversations she must have, and I commented that really, a lot of what she is offering falls under the category of therapy and psychology. I have often wondered if salon schools offer training around developing active listening skills and other therapeutic strategies? Our hairdressers or barbers are a big part of our lives!
Let’s be honest—most of us have said more to our hairdresser than we have to some of our closest mates. You walk in for a quick cut, and before you know it, you’re chatting about work stress, relationship woes, or what’s been keeping you up at night.
So why does this happen? Why does sitting in that salon chair feel almost… therapeutic?
Turns out, there’s actual psychology behind it.
1.
The Power of a Good Chat
You’re in the chair for a good while, and the conversation flows naturally. It might start with “Been up to owt?” and somehow turn into a full-blown heart-to-heart. This kind of open, casual talk gives your brain a break—processing feelings out loud helps reduce stress and clarify what’s been swirling round your head.
In psychology, this kind of release is known as catharsis—letting stuff out emotionally. You feel lighter afterward, even if nothing’s been solved.
2.
The “Liminal Space” Effect
A salon is what’s called a liminal space—a place that sits between your normal routines. You’re not at home, not at work, just… in between. That sense of detachment from everyday pressures can make you feel freer to talk honestly.
You’re away from distractions, just sat in a chair, being looked after. That in-between-ness makes it easier to open up.
3.
Touch That Heals
It might sound daft, but the physical contact—like having your hair washed or brushed—actually has a biological effect. It triggers the release of oxytocin, sometimes called the “bonding hormone.” It helps us feel safe and relaxed, and can reduce levels of cortisol, the stress hormone.
It’s one of the reasons you feel calmer (or even a bit sleepy) after a shampoo at the basin.
4.
A Safe, Familiar Face
If you see the same hairdresser regularly, that relationship builds over time. Like with a good therapist, trust forms slowly and naturally. You’re not being analysed or questioned—you’re just chatting. That relaxed, non-judgemental space can be surprisingly healing.
There’s something comforting about knowing someone remembers how you take your tea and what you were worrying about last time.
5.
Confidence and Control
A fresh haircut might seem superficial, but it can give you back a sense of control—especially when life feels a bit chaotic. Looking in the mirror and feeling “more like yourself” is a real boost to your self-esteem, which ties directly to mental health.
That transformation—even if small—can act as a reset, helping you walk out feeling just that bit stronger.
6.
No Pressure, Just Connection
Unlike therapy, there’s no pressure to “get somewhere” in a salon chat. You can talk deeply or keep it light. Either way, that human connection—just being with someone who listens and engages—is hugely beneficial. Social connection is one of the biggest protective factors against anxiety and depression.
Sometimes it’s just nice to talk. Other times, it’s exactly what you need.
Final Thoughts
So, while your hairdresser might not have letters after their name, they’ve probably helped your mental health more than once. They’re great listeners, calm spaces, and confidence-boosters all rolled into one. For me, Janice is someone who offers much more that a haircut, we share stories, we laugh, I can share a problem and I know that what's said at the hairdressers, stays at the hairdressers! A trim and a therapy session? Sounds like a decent deal.