In this powerful and deeply personal conversation, Ben Reiman sits down with Indigenous educator, consultant, speaker, and entrepreneur Len Pierre. Grounding the discussion in his Coast Salish identity and his roots in Katzie First Nation, Len shares his journey of cultural reclamation, receiving his ancestral name, and learning to navigate both Indigenous and colonial worlds. Len explores the history and teachings of Katzie territory, the importance of language revitalization, and the role of community in identity, healing, and belonging. He discusses how Indigenous worldviews challenge Western assumptions about individualism, perfectionism, privilege, trauma, and leadership.  The conversation also examines reconciliation in contemporary Canada, the distinction between reconciliation and conventional DEI initiatives, and why meaningful change must move at the speed of trust rather than the speed of institutions. Len shares lessons from building Len Pierre Consulting, supporting organizations on their reconciliation journeys, and helping people understand that Indigenous peoples are not defined by trauma but by generations of strength, resilience, and wisdom. Whether you work in education, healthcare, social services, leadership, or want to deepen your understanding of Indigenous perspectives, this episode offers a thought-provoking and hopeful exploration of how relationships, culture, and community can help us all navigate today's challenges. Learn More About Len Pierrehttps://lenpierreconsulting.com   Follow Len Pierre https://www.linkedin.com/in/len-pierre/ https://www.instagram.com/lenjpierre/https://www.youtube.com/@lenpierreconsulting https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575539922006   Nut'semot (One Heart, One Mind) - LPC Podcast https://open.spotify.com/show/58QRdHYguAqUS6wl7oiljk?si=ef9400843e5347da     If this conversation with Len Pierre resonated with you, we encourage you to explore more Indigenous voices featured on Behaviour Speak. These episodes offer diverse perspectives on reconciliation, Indigenous rights, leadership, disability, community wellness, allyship, and social justice. Together, they provide a deeper understanding of the lived experiences, strengths, knowledge systems, and leadership of Indigenous peoples across Canada.  Featured Episodes Dr. Tibetha KembleWhat Are You Willing to Lose? Settler Colonialism and ReconciliationA thought-provoking conversation examining settler colonialism, power, privilege, and the uncomfortable realities of reconciliation. Dr. Kemble challenges listeners to consider what meaningful reconciliation requires of individuals, organizations, and systems, and why transformational change often demands more than symbolic gestures. 🔗 https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/what-are-you-willing-to-lose-settler-colonialism-and-reconciliation-with-dr-tibetha-kemble/ Katisha PaulKatisha Paul brings powerful perspectives on Indigenous advocacy, leadership, representation, and community empowerment. This conversation explores the importance of Indigenous leadership in decision-making spaces and highlights pathways toward creating systems that better serve Indigenous communities while honouring Indigenous ways of knowing and being. 🔗 https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/one-heart-one-mind-indigenous-sovereignty-climate-leadership-and-the-future/ Raven LacerteEnding Gender-Based Violence One Conversation at a TimeFounder of the Moose Hide Campaign, Raven Lacerte discusses the movement to end gender-based violence and the collective responsibility we all share in creating safer communities. This episode explores allyship, accountability, healing, and how difficult conversations can become catalysts for meaningful change. 🔗 https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/raven-lacerte-ending-gender-based-violence-one-conversation-at-a-time/ Grant BrunoThe Realities of Autism in First Nations Communities in CanadaGrant Bruno shares important insights into the intersection of autism, disabili

What happens when community, culture, behavioural science, and public health intersect? In this inspiring conversation, Ben Reiman sits down with sisters Ruaa Hassaballa and Ithar Hassaballa, two behavioural scientists whose journey began in Sudan and evolved into careers dedicated to health equity, systems change, community engagement, and global health. The sisters share how their upbringing in Sudan, immigration to the United States, and the influence of parents rooted in teaching, anthropology, and service shaped their understanding of humanity, resilience, and collective care. They discuss the values that continue to guide their work, including curiosity, integrity, community, and cultural humility. The conversation explores how behavioural science extends far beyond individual behaviour change and can be applied to entire communities and systems. Through stories from diabetes prevention, Ebola response efforts, COVID-19 equity initiatives, global health leadership, and maternal health work, Ruaa and Ithar illustrate why trust, relationships, and lived experience are essential ingredients for meaningful change. Listeners will also discover how community members serve as experts in their own lives, why cultural humility may be more powerful than cultural competence, and what it takes to create conditions where individuals and communities can truly thrive. This episode is a masterclass in systems thinking, health equity, behavioural science, and the power of listening. Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/0Gc0T_tU6Pw Follow us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/behaviourspeak/ LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/behaviourspeak TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@behaviorspeak   Links Ithar Hassaballa https://www.linkedin.com/in/ithar-hassaballa/ https://communityhealth.ku.edu/people/ithar-hassaballa-mph-phd-who-fellow https://common-ground-advisors.com/ Ruaa Hassaballa https://www.linkedin.com/in/ruaa-hassaballa/ KU Center for Community Health and Development https://communityhealth.ku.edu/ Dr. Stephen Fawcett https://communityhealth.ku.edu/people/stephen-b-fawcett-phd Hzssaballa Omar Hassabala https://www.interurbanarthouse.org/tangled-roots-exhibition-2020 https://youtu.be/O4mVCfPfVDQ?si=U4t_jdwxH-QrY53y   Research Discussed Phori PM, Fawcett S, Nidjergou NN, Silouakadila C, Hassaballa R, Siku DK. Participatory Monitoring and Evaluation of the COVID-19 Response in the Africa Region. Health Promotion Practice. 2023;24(3):432-443. doi:10.1177/15248399221095524   Munodawafa, D., Moeti, M.R., Phori, P.M. et al. Monitoring and Evaluating the Ebola Response Effort in Two Liberian Communities. J Community Health 43, 321–327 (2018). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10900-017-0425-5 Fawcett S, Holt C, Solar-Hormazabal O, et al. Equity Lens Protocol: Reflecting on Harms From the COVID-19 Response and Mitigation Strategies Implemented in a Local Public Health System. Health Promotion Practice. 2024;25(4):526-530. doi:10.1177/15248399231173702   Watson-Thompson, J., Hassaballa, R.H., Valentini, S.H. et al. Actively Addressing Systemic Racism Using a Behavioral Community Approach. Behav. Soc. Iss. 31, 297–326 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1007/s42822-022-00101-6

In this conversation, Dr. Amy Pearson shares her personal and professional journey in autism research, discussing her experiences as a late-diagnosed autistic individual and the impact of her lived experience on her research. She explores the challenges of navigating the academic landscape as an autistic researcher, the importance of neurodiversity affirming practices, and the need for a shift from deficit-based models to a more inclusive understanding of autism. The discussion highlights the ethical considerations in autism research and the significance of aligning research with the values of the autistic community. This conversation delves into the perceptions of autistic individuals, particularly focusing on the experiences of non-speaking individuals and the biases that exist within neurotypical perspectives. It explores the complexities of family dynamics, the importance of support for individuals with high needs, and the reflections on ABA tutoring experiences. The discussion also addresses the concept of masking in autism, its implications, and the challenges of navigating social expectations while striving for authenticity. In this conversation, Amy Pearson and Ben Reiman explore the evolving understanding of authenticity, the significance of stimming in autistic identity, and the complexities of relationships within the autistic community. They discuss misconceptions surrounding autistic intimacy, the portrayal of neurodivergent relationships in media, and the critical issue of intimate partner violence faced by autistic individuals. The conversation emphasizes the need for a deeper understanding of autistic experiences and the importance of fostering acceptance and support in relationships. In this conversation, Amy Pearson discusses the complexities of autistic experiences, particularly in relation to interpersonal violence, emotional well-being, and the importance of support systems in research. She highlights the need for awareness of red flags in relationships, the intersection of autism with menopause, and the influence of key figures in autism research. The discussion emphasizes the importance of understanding and validating autistic experiences while advocating for systemic changes to improve the lives of autistic individuals Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/h9UUG0zr1f4 Follow us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/behaviourspeak/ LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/behaviourspeak TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@behaviorspeak   Links Amy Pearson  https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-pearson-359b83303/ https://www.durham.ac.uk/staff/amy-pearson/ Links and Resources Authoring Autism by M. Remi Yergeau  https://www.dukeupress.edu/authoring-autism Dr. Pearson's Amazing Colleagues Mentioned Kieron Rose https://theautisticadvocate.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/kieran-rose-38574b55/ Felicity Sedgewick https://www.linkedin.com/in/felicity-sedgewick-32a55015b/ Sarah Douglas https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-douglas-9a57951b6/ Nicole Renehan https://www.durham.ac.uk/staff/nicole-renehan/ Sarah Cassidy https://www.nottingham.ac.uk/psychology/people/sarah.cassidy Damien Milton https://www.kent.ac.uk/school-of-psychology/tizard/people/1419/milton-damian Sarah King https://www.saraking.online/research Krysia Waldock https://www.linkedin.com/in/krysia-waldock/ Liz Pellicano https://profiles.ucl.ac.uk/47716-elizabeth-pellicano Research Discussed Pearson A, Rose K, Mitchell A, et al. “It’s Not a Physical Prison but You Can’t Get Out.” How Autistic Adults Make Sense of the Experience of Intimate Violence and Abuse. Autism in Adulthood. 2026;8(3):360-372. doi:10.1089/aut.2024.0145

What if the most important skill in behaviour analysis isn't a technical skill at all? In this episode of Behaviour Speak, Ben Reiman sits down with BCBA and PhD candidate Preeti Vogel to discuss compassionate care, cultural responsiveness, and the crucial role these skills play in effective behaviour support. Drawing on over a decade of experience working across India and Australia, Preeti shares how her professional journey shaped her understanding of behaviour analysis and ultimately influenced her research agenda. The conversation explores the Multi-Element Behaviour Support (MEBS) framework and its constructional approach to improving quality of life through meaningful skill development rather than focusing solely on behaviour reduction. Preeti explains how MEBS incorporates comprehensive assessment, proactive supports, reactive strategies, mediation, implementation planning, and social validity into a cohesive framework. Ben and Preeti also dive into Preeti's published research examining the effects of remote training on functional assessment interviewing skills, cultural responsiveness, and compassionate care. The discussion highlights practical strategies practitioners can use immediately, including active listening, empathy-based responding, collaborative goal selection, and culturally responsive assessment practices. The episode concludes with a discussion about cultural humility, practitioner self-reflection, and Preeti's ongoing doctoral research examining self-monitoring tools to improve compassionate and culturally responsive practice across multiple service-delivery contexts   Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/sefnUA2DVdk Continuing Education Credits (https://www.cbiconsultants.com/shop) BACB: 1.0 EthicsIBAO:  1.0 CulturalQABA: 1.0 EthicsCBA/CPD: 1.0 Cultural Diversity Follow us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/behaviourspeak/ LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/behaviourspeak TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@behaviorspeak   Links Preeti Vogel on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/preeti-vogel-2a3a3588/ Centre For Positive Behaviour Support https://cpbs.com.au/ Multi Element Behaviour Support (MEBS) https://iaba.foundation/ppbs Preeti's Article Vogel, P., Kurumiya, Y., Mahoney, A. et al. Teaching Practitioners in Australia Culturally Responsive and Compassion-Based Functional Assessment Interviewing Skills. Behav Analysis Practice (2025). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40617-025-01121-5 Behaviour Speak Series On Constructional Approaches In Behaviour Support https://www.behaviourspeak.com/category/constructional-behaviour-analysis

In this episode, Ben sits down with behaviour analyst and entrepreneur Sara Silsilah to discuss her remarkable journey from Saudi Arabia to Columbia University and back again. Sara shares how a chance encounter during a university fire drill led her into the field of autism and behaviour analysis, and how her grandmother's lifelong commitment to supporting children with disabilities shaped her values and career path. The conversation explores the evolution of ABA practice, the importance of autistic voices, assent-based treatment, relationship-building, family systems, supervision, and professional humility. Sara challenges clinicians to move beyond rigid protocols and embrace a more collaborative, compassionate, and individualized approach to care. She also shares lessons learned from launching Seeds of Knowledge, her vision for improving autism services in Saudi Arabia, and why quality treatment requires rigorous standards, meaningful supervision, and strong therapeutic relationships. Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/sefnUA2DVdk Continuing Education Credits (https://www.cbiconsultants.com/shop) BACB: 1.5 EthicsIBAO:  1.5 CulturalQABA: 1.5 EthicsCBA/CPD: 1.5 Cultural Diversity Follow us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/behaviourspeak/ LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/behaviourspeak TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@behaviorspeak   Links Sara Silsilah on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/sara-silsilah-phd-bcba-d-4820051bb/ Seeds of Knowledge https://theseedsofknowledge.com/ ABAI Saudi Arabia Chapter https://iba.abainternational.org/2025/11/18/aba-saudi-arabia-2025-annual-report/ Behaviour Analysis in Saudi Arabia with Dr. Shahad Alsharif https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-149-behaviouranalysis-in-saudi-arabia-with-dr-shahad-alsharif/

In this episode, Ben Reiman speaks with Pragya Shrestha Pradhan, a parent, founder, advocate, and behaviour analyst working to expand autism and ABA services in Nepal. Pragya describes how her daughter Avaani’s autism diagnosis introduced her to a world of limited services, long waitlists, and cultural stigma around disability. That experience eventually led her to training in India, involvement in parent education, the founding of Avaani Foundation, and later her certification as a behaviour analyst.  The conversation covers autism awareness in Nepal, the challenges of developing ABA services where trained professionals are scarce, the importance of parent training, and the difficulty of implementing intervention within extended family systems. Pragya also discusses collaboration with other professionals, concerns about ABA being offered without proper training or supervision, and her vision for university-level behaviour analysis education and future service development in Nepal.  In This Episode Pragya Shrestha Pradhan’s journey from parent to professional Avaani’s diagnosis and early intervention experience Autism awareness and stigma in Nepal The founding and growth of Avaani Foundation Cultural considerations in ABA and parent training Challenges with limited professionals and access to services Collaboration with schools, families, therapists, doctors, and universities The need for culturally responsive ABA models in Nepal Building local capacity through education, supervision, and training Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/iD5UjGWmrOE Continuing Education Credits (https://www.cbiconsultants.com/shop) BACB: 1.0 EthicsIBAO:  1.0 CulturalQABA: 1.0 EthicsCBA/CPD: 1.0 Cultural Diversity Follow us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/behaviourspeak/ LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/behaviourspeak TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@behaviorspeak   Links Pragya Pradhan on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/pragya-shrestha-pradhan-003406181/ Avaani Foundation https://www.avaanifoundation.org/ Autism Care Nepal Society https://autismnepal.org/ Related Episodes: Autism Advocacy in Pakistan with Dr. Shumyla Noreen https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-204-autism-advocacy-in-pakistan-with-shumyla-noreen-bcaba-iba/

In this episode of Behaviour Speak, Ben welcomes Mei-Hua Li, BCBA-D and speech-language pathology clinical fellow, for a discussion that sits at the intersection of behaviour analysis, communication, and cultural responsiveness. Drawing from her unique dual training in applied behaviour analysis and speech-language pathology, Mei-Hua explores how collaboration between BCBAs and SLPs can improve outcomes for autistic individuals and others with communication needs. The conversation examines AAC and speech-generating devices, language development, aphasia, apraxia, and verbal behaviour, and highlights the importance of interdisciplinary practice. Mei-Hua shares practical examples of how behavioural assessment and intervention can complement speech and language expertise to create more effective, individualized support plans. A major focus of the episode is culturally responsive care. Mei-Hua discusses her work with Chinese and Chinese-American families, the influence of Confucian values such as filial piety, and the importance of cultural humility when delivering services. She offers concrete strategies for working effectively with interpreters, understanding family perspectives, addressing stigma surrounding autism, and building trust through meaningful collaboration.  The episode concludes with a look at Mei-Hua's work with Chinatown Child Respite Care, a nonprofit supporting Chinese-speaking immigrant families of neurodivergent children through respite services, community building, education, and advocacy. Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/msdfio-VbuA Continuing Education Credits (https://www.cbiconsultants.com/shop) BACB: 1.0 EthicsIBAO:  1.0 CulturalQABA: 1.0 EthicsCBA/CPD: 1.0 Cultural Diversity Follow us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/behaviourspeak/ LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/behaviourspeak TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@behaviorspeak Links Chinatown Respite Care https://www.chinatownrespite.com/ https://www.instagram.com/chinatown.respite/ Articles Referenced Masters, C., Robinson, D., Faulkner, S., Patterson, E., McIlraith, T., & Ansari, A. (2019). Addressing Biases in Patient Care with The 5Rs of Cultural Humility, a Clinician Coaching Tool. Journal of General Internal Medicine, 34(4), 627–630. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11606-018-4814-y Moreno, G., Wong-Lo, M., Short, M., & Bullock, L. M. (2014). Implementing a culturally attuned functional behavioural assessment to understand and address challenging behaviours demonstrated by students from diverse backgrounds. Emotional & Behavioural Difficulties, 19(4), 343–355. https://doi.org/10.1080/13632752.2013.860682 Related Episodes: Culturally Responsive Family-Centred PBS for Chinese Immigrant Famiies with Chloe Wang https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/building-culturally-responsive-family-centred-pbs-for-chinese-immigrant-families-chloe-wang/ Supporting Children Across Cultures with ABA and PBS with Dianna Yip https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-270-beyond-compliance-supporting-children-across-cultures-with-aba-and-pbs-with-dianna-yip-med-bcba/   Empowering The Chinese Autism Community with Hazel Lim https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-212-empowering-the-chinese-autism-community-with-hazel-lim/   Collaboration and Mentorship with Landria Seals-Green https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-57-huddle-up-collaboration-and-mentorship-with-landria-seals-green-ccc-slp-bcba/

In this episode of Behaviour Speak, Dr. Olivia Hird-Partlow offers a thoughtful and deeply practical conversation about ABA across the lifespan. Originally from Canada and now based in Maryland, Olivia Hird-Partlow describes her path into ABA through early training at Kennedy Krieger, her work across clinics, homes, schools, and residential settings, and her current teaching role at McDaniel College, where she teaches ABA courses within a master’s program in human services.  A major focus of the episode is the gap in ABA training and services for adults with autism, intellectual disabilities, dementia, and other age-related needs. Dr. Hird-Partlow explains how many ABA programs and funding structures continue to emphasize children, while adults and aging populations often require thoughtful behavioural support, interdisciplinary collaboration, and a strong commitment to quality of life. The conversation explores what it means to support adults in ways that preserve autonomy, consent, dignity, and independence. Olivia Hird-Partlow discusses the importance of recognizing behavioural changes as possible indicators of pain, memory loss, grief, changes in routine, medical concerns, or communication needs. She also emphasizes that intervention plans should not simply be implemented mechanically, but should be adjusted based on the person’s changing abilities, preferences, and lived experience.  Listeners will also hear a rich discussion of aging in place, caregiver stress, family communication, and the emotional realities of supporting aging parents, grandparents, and relatives. Olivia shares personal examples from her own family, including the importance of maintaining familiar routines, environments, smells, furniture, and family connections when possible.  The episode also highlights Dr. Hird-Partlow’s work through Relentless Alliance, where she provides consultation, coaching, training, and support for adults with disabilities and adults experiencing dementia or aging-related changes. She also discusses her dissertation work on the practical functional assessment with adults and in schools, as well as her interest in building more research and training around ABA with adults. This conversation is essential listening for behaviour analysts, caregivers, educators, residential support staff, clinicians, students, and anyone interested in compassionate behavioural support across the lifespan. Watch the video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/P-K_8gIxLpA Continuing Education Credits (https://www.cbiconsultants.com/shop) BACB: 1.0 LearningIBAO:  1.0 ABA TopicsQABA: 1.0 GeneralCBA/CPD: 1.0 Learning Follow us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/behaviourspeak/ LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/behaviourspeak TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@behaviorspeak Connect with Olivia Relentless Alliance https://relentlessalliance.app/ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/olivia-hird/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/olivia_hird_partlow/ Links Sisters On Da Mic Podcast https://sistersondamic.buzzsprout.com/ DMV ABBA https://www.dmvabba.org/ Related Episodes: Episode 236, "The Intersection of Aging and Behaviour Analysis," with Dr. Jacqueline Pachis and Nehal Siam https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-236-the-intersection-of-aging-and-behaviour-analysis-with-jacqueline-pachis-ma-ms-bcba-and-nehal-siam-mped-bcba-rba-ont/ Episode 20, "Consulting in Group Homes Using ACT," with Monica Peters. https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-20-consulting-in-group-homes-using-act-with-monica-peters-mads-bcba/

In this powerful conversation, Meena Richardson, an Assistant Scientist at the Center for Indigenous Health at Johns Hopkins University, shares her work supporting urban Indigenous communities through community-based participatory research, cultural connectedness, and Indigenous-led approaches to healing.    Drawing from her experiences as a citizen of the Haliwa-Saponi Tribe and her Indo-Fijian heritage, Meena explores how identity, kinship, and relationships serve as mechanisms for wellness and resilience. She discusses the realities facing urban Indigenous communities, the impact of historical policies such as relocation programs, and the importance of honouring Indigenous ways of knowing in research and practice.  The conversation highlights Meena's dissertation research on caregiving, belonging, and cultural connectedness in urban Indigenous communities. Listeners will learn how multigenerational relationships, place-based practices, water ceremonies, traditional plant knowledge, and community-centred caregiving support both healing and prevention across generations.  Throughout the discussion, Meena offers a strengths-based perspective that challenges common misconceptions about urban Indigenous people while emphasizing the power of community, culture, identity, and Indigenous leadership in creating healthier futures.   Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Sbx4x0-aD3A   Check out Meena's latest paper! Richardson, M., Darrow, H., Trujillo, N., & Waters, S. F. (2026). "…what it all comes down to is being a good relative": urban indigenous perspectives on caregiving, community, and culture to inform trauma transmission prevention and generational healing. Journal of behavioral medicine, 10.1007/s10865-026-00685-z. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10865-026-00685-z     Contact Dr. Richardson   https://cih.jhu.edu/team/meenakshi-richardson/ https://publichealth.jhu.edu/faculty/4949/meenakshi-richardson     If you enjoyed this conversation with Meena Richardson, be sure to explore other Behaviour Speak episodes that deepen the discussion around Indigenous health, cultural connectedness, identity, and community wellbeing. Check out our conversations with Haley Shea, who shares insights on Indigenous mental health and systems transformation; Jessica Saniguq Ullrich, whose work on the Indigenous Connectedness Framework helped inform many of the concepts discussed in this episode; and Katisha Paul, who explores Indigenous perspectives on healing, community, and cultural resurgence. Together, these conversations offer a broader understanding of Indigenous ways of knowing, relationship-based approaches to wellbeing, and the importance of centering Indigenous voices in research, practice, and community care. Visit BehaviourSpeak.com and search for Haley Shea, Jessica Ullrich, and Katisha Paul to continue your learning journey.

What does behaviour analysis look like in Russia today? In this episode of Behaviour Speak, Ben welcomes Natalia Polikarpova, behaviour analyst, educator, supervisor, and leader in the Russian-speaking ABA community. Natalia shares her journey from engineering to behaviour analysis, discusses the early development of ABA in Russia, and reflects on the growth of professional training, supervision, and certification opportunities across Russian-speaking countries. She also explores the impact of the BACB's withdrawal from Russia, the emergence of local credentialing systems, and the importance of developing professional organizations that reflect local cultural and educational realities.  The conversation also examines autism services across Russia and neighbouring countries, including parent involvement, educational options, government-supported initiatives, and ongoing efforts to improve diagnostic pathways for families. Natalia highlights the growing influence of Practical Functional Assessment (PFA) and Skills-Based Treatment (SBT), as well as the broader movement toward compassionate, trauma-informed care.  Most importantly, Natalia challenges listeners to remember that every learner is first and foremost a child, deserving of dignity, flexibility, and compassionate support. In this episode, we discuss: How ABA first emerged in Russia Early misconceptions about ABA The growth of Russian-language BCBA training Certification changes following BACB withdrawal Development of local professional standards and ethics PFA and SBT implementation across Russia Autism services and school placement options Parent involvement in intervention Challenges facing adult autism services Compassionate and trauma-informed behavior analysis The future of ABA in Russian-speaking communities Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/tV9Ja9ziEZ8 Continuing Education Credits IBAO:  1.0 CulturalQABA: 1.0 EthicsCBA/CPD: 1.0 Cultural Diversity   Complete The Behaviour Speak CE Knowledge Check To Earn Your CEUs Enter your answers here:  (https://www.cbiconsultants.com/shop) Question 1 Natalia discussed one challenge with importing educational models into Russia. What concern did she raise? A. Teachers refused to use behaviour analysis B. Imported models sometimes require adaptation to local educational and cultural realities C. Families preferred residential treatment D. Universities prohibited ABA training Question 2 A. Government-funded universal ABA services B. Large numbers of university-based ABA doctoral programs C. Strong interest in learning new practices and professional development D. National licensing requirements for all therapists Question 3 Which statement best reflects Natalia's philosophy of practice? A. Compliance should always be prioritized before teaching anything else B. Standardized intervention plans are more effective than individualized approaches C. Every child should receive the same educational placement D. Practitioners should remember they are working with a child first and build interventions compassionately   Contact  Азбука АВА https://azbukaaba.com/ FTF Behavioral Consulting https://ftfbc.com/our-team/natalia-polikarpova/ https://ftfbc.com/natalia-polikarpova/ Explore More Global Perspectives on Behaviour Analysis Natalia's story is part of a broader series of conversations on Behaviour Speak that examines how behaviour analysis is developing across Eastern Europe and Central Asia. While each country faces unique cultural, educational, regulatory, and service-delivery challenges, a common theme emerges: dedicated professionals are building behaviour analytic communities, expanding access to services, and adapting evidence-based practices to meet local needs. Episode 184: Behaviour Analysis in Ukraine with Alla Moskalets Learn how behaviour analysis developed in Ukraine, the challenges of expanding autism services, and the efforts of practitioners working to increase professional training, family support, a