Behaviour Speak with Ben Reiman

What happens when there are no autism services in your country? In this episode, Ben speaks with Maxcia Williams, a parent, advocate, and behaviour technician in the Turks & Caicos Islands, about her journey raising a son with autism in a system that didn’t yet exist—and how she helped build one. From navigating stigma and cultural myths to founding the Hope Foundation for Autism Awareness, Maxcia shares what it means to move from isolation to impact. This conversation explores culturally responsive care, workforce challenges in small communities, and the power of caregiver-led change. At the heart of the episode is Israel—Maxcia’s son—whose journey into self-advocacy, homeschooling, and authorship reminds us that autism is not a limitation, but a different path. Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/ZqhcnZnjN4I This episode is presented by our founding academic partner, the Doctor of Education in the field of Applied Behaviour Analysis program at Western University’s Faculty of Education. Program Information: https://www.edu.uwo.ca/graduate-education/edd/applied-behaviour-analysis.html How to apply: https://www.edu.uwo.ca/graduate-education/apply.html Program brochure: https://www.edu.uwo.ca/graduate-education/edd/foe120_edd_aba_r1.png Continuing Education Credits (https://www.cbiconsultants.com/shop) BACB: 1.5 Ethics IBAO: 1.5 Cultural QABA: 1.5 General CBA/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 Contact Maxcia LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/maxcia-williams-ibt-ados-2-administrator-1b735a77/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/maximalicious/ The Elephant Rooms - (The clinic Maxcia works in) https://theelephantrooms.com/team/ Links: What Happens Next? by Isreal Rigby https://www.amazon.com/What-Happens-Next-Isreal-Rigby-ebook/dp/B0CTZV63ZM Caribbean Association for Behaviour Analysis https://caribbeanba.org/leadership/ The Black Association of Behavior Analysts https://babainfo.org/ International Behavior Analysis Association https://theibao.com/ To learn more about behaviour analysis in the Caribbean, check out these interviews: https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-93-behaviour-analysis-in-the-caribbean-with-kim-woolery-gabi-torres-and-sloane-pharr-strang/ https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-97-bridging-the-gap-culturally-responsive-telehealth-and-behavior-analysis-with-kimberly-woolery-ms-bcba/ https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/epiosde-187-culturally-grounded-autism-training-for-black-parents-with-camille-proctor/

In this special role-reversal episode, Dr. Asmahan Saleh Khalil returns—this time as host—to interview Behaviour Speak’s own Ben Reiman. Marking five years and close to 300 conversations, Ben reflects on the unexpected evolution of the podcast—from a simple networking idea to a global platform amplifying diverse voices in behaviour analysis. Together, they explore: The origins and evolution of Behaviour Speak What global conversations revealed about access, equity, and culture Common challenges across countries in building ABA services The impact of Ben’s late ADHD diagnosis Why cultural humility and self-reflection are essential in practice The “missing link” in ABA training: working with people The role of motivational interviewing and the constructional approach What’s next—including multilingual episodes and global expansion This is a deeply personal and reflective conversation about growth, discomfort, and the power of listening across cultures. Watch the video: https://youtu.be/GMwTUnOWYoQ This episode is presented by our founding academic partner, the Doctor of Education in the field of Applied Behaviour Analysis program at Western University’s Faculty of Education. Program Information: https://www.edu.uwo.ca/graduate-education/edd/applied-behaviour-analysis.html How to apply: https://www.edu.uwo.ca/graduate-education/apply.html Program brochure: https://www.edu.uwo.ca/graduate-education/edd/foe120_edd_aba_r1.png Links: CBI Consultants https://www.cbiconsultants.com Asmahan Saleh Khalil https://drasmahan.com/about/ https://www.instagram.com/dr.asmahan.sk/ Dr. Monica Gilbert https://drmonicagilbert.com/ MI for Change Podcast https://open.spotify.com/show/1RFSGrj1w5MPjTQpEN4Vi5?si=9393ff06f5244066 Ben's First Interview with Danni Reid https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-1-racism/ Interview with Ben's BCBA Supervisor https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-18-values-based-supervision-and-mentorship-with-hilary-mcclinton-med-bcba/ Interview with Dr. Rocío Rosales https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-30-a-conversation-with-dr-rocio-rosales-phd-bcba-d/ Interview with Alia Yasir https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-145-behavior-analysis-in-pakistan-with-alia-yasir-bcaba-iba/ Corina Jimenez-Gomez and Lauren Beaulieu Cultural Responsiveness Research Jimenez-Gomez, C. and Beaulieu, L. (2022), Cultural responsiveness in applied behavior analysis: Research and practice. Jnl of Applied Behav Analysis, 55: 650-673. https://doi.org/10.1002/jaba.920 Beaulieu, L. and Jimenez-Gomez, C. (2022), Cultural responsiveness in applied behavior analysis: Self-assessment. Jnl of Applied Behav Analysis, 55: 337-356. https://doi.org/10.1002/jaba.907 April is MENA Heritage Month - Check out these episodes for FREE CEUs! https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/ep-243-culturally-responsive-behaviour-analysis-in-the-united-arab-emirates-with-amina-maliki-med-bcba/ https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-240-from-the-frontlines-civilian-stories-of-war-and-resilience-with-dr-iman-farajallah/ https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-238-behaviour-analysis-in-bahrain-with-ingy-alireza-med-ms-bcba/ https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-232-behaviour-analysis-in-sudan-with-salma-abdelrahmanabdalla-med-iba-qba/ https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-228-the-nubian-egyptian-behaviour-analyst-with-nehal-siam-mped-bcba-rba-ont/ https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-218-behavior-analysis-in-morocco-with-mina-el-qalli-qasp-s-iba/ https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-215-behavior-analysis-in-turkiye-with-dr-buket-kisac-demiroglu/ https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-200-safeguarding-vulnerable-children-in-the-arab-world-with-dr-asmahan-saleh-khalil/ Check out these episodes on the Constructional Approach! https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-257-a-compassionate-approach-to-exposure-therapy-with-danielle-cohen/ https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-252-applications-of-the-constructional-approach-with-dr-madhura-deshpande/ https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-250-the-constructional-approach-a-primer-with-awab-abdel-jalil/

In this episode, Ben sits down with Danielle Cohen to explore Constructional Exposure Therapy (CET)—an emerging, compassionate approach grounded in the constructional framework of behaviour analysis. Rather than focusing on eliminating fear or escape behaviour, CET identifies the behaviour the person needs to access meaningful outcomes—and systematically teaches it in a way that maintains choice, assent, and low distress throughout. Danielle shares how this approach: - Reframes reinforcement through the lens of critical consequences - Uses shaping with negative reinforcement in a practical, ethical way - Prioritizes multiple pathways to success (and genuine assent) - Allows learners to opt out—without stopping progress Through powerful case examples—including supporting a learner through a blood draw and teaching independent nail clipping in under an hour—this episode highlights what’s possible when we truly align effectiveness with compassion. Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/jjk7LrWWM1Y This episode is presented by our founding academic partner, the Doctor of Education in the field of Applied Behaviour Analysis program at Western University’s Faculty of Education. Program Information: https://www.edu.uwo.ca/graduate-education/edd/applied-behaviour-analysis.html How to apply: https://www.edu.uwo.ca/graduate-education/apply.html Program brochure: https://www.edu.uwo.ca/graduate-education/edd/foe120_edd_aba_r1.png Continuing Education Credits (https://www.cbiconsultants.com/shop) BACB: 1.0 Learning IBAO: 1.0 ABA Topics QABA: 1.0 General CBA/CPD: 1.0 Learning Follow us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/behaviourspeak/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/behaviourspeak/ Contact Danielle on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielle-cohen-bcba-0a247a213/ Links: Facebook group: https://m.facebook.com/groups/700952357829957/?ref=share&mibextid=wwXIfr Article on CET: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Awab-Abdel-Jalil-2/publication/373767631_TOWARD_A_CONSTRUCTIONAL_EXPOSURE_THERAPY/links/64fb1cd510813375f267dc4e/TOWARD-A-CONSTRUCTIONAL-EXPOSURE-THERAPY.pdf Exposure therapy literature review: Abdel‐Jalil, A., Baldwin, J. N., & Leaf, J. B. (2024). Exposure‐based treatments for fear and reactivity to medical procedures: A systematic review of the literature with implications for research and practice. Behavioral Interventions, 39(3), e2010. Concept analysis on assent: innehan, A.M., Abdel-Jalil, A., Klick, S. et al. Foundations of Preemptive Compassion: A Behavioral Concept Analysis of Compulsion, Consent, and Assent. Behav Analysis Practice (2023). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40617-023-00890-1 Another paper on compassion and assent: https://www.maracalearning.com/assets/can-there-be-compassion-without-assent_-a-nonlinear-constructional-approach.pdf To learn more about the constructional approach, check out the first two episodes in our series Episode 250: The Constructional Approach: A Primer with Awab Abdel-Jalil https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-250-the-constructional-approach-a-primer-with-awab-abdel-jalil/ Episode 252: Applications of the constructional approach with Madhura Deshpande https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-252-applications-of-the-constructional-approach-with-dr-madhura-deshpande/

Behaviour analysis is often associated with clinical work in autism and developmental disabilities. But what happens when the science is applied to entire institutional systems? In this episode, Valeria Pascale discusses her interdisciplinary work applying behaviour analysis inside Italian maximum-security prisons. Drawing on her background in law, psychology, and neuroscience, Valeria developed a pilot project that introduced a token economy and self-monitoring system designed to reduce aggression, property destruction, and self-injury among incarcerated individuals. The intervention was intentionally simple, low-cost, and replicable—so prison staff could maintain it after the research team left. The results were powerful. Participants quickly engaged with the program, began tracking their own behaviour, and reported improved relationships with one another. By the end of the project, many inmates requested that the program continue because they felt it was helping them communicate and manage conflict more effectively. In this conversation, we discuss: Bringing behaviour analysis into a new institutional setting The challenges of implementing behavioural interventions in maximum-security prisons How token economies and self-monitoring can support rehabilitation Why social validity and dignity matter in prison-based interventions The potential for behaviour analysis to inform criminal justice and policy systems Valeria also shares her plans for a second prison study examining behavioural relaxation training and anxiety reduction among incarcerated individuals. This episode is a powerful reminder that behaviour analysis is not limited to any single population—it is a science of behaviour that can inform complex social systems. This episode is presented by our founding academic partner, the Doctor of Education in the field of Applied Behaviour Analysis program at Western University’s Faculty of Education. Watch the video: https://youtu.be/XzVBBhzqI3s Program Information: https://www.edu.uwo.ca/graduate-education/edd/applied-behaviour-analysis.html How to apply: https://www.edu.uwo.ca/graduate-education/apply.html Program brochure: https://www.edu.uwo.ca/graduate-education/edd/foe120_edd_aba_r1.png Continuing Education Credits (https://www.cbiconsultants.com/shop) BACB: 1.0 Learning IBAO: 1.0 ABA Topics QABA: 1.0 General CBA/CPD: 1.0 Learning Follow us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/behaviourspeak/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/behaviourspeak/ Contact Valeria Pascale at ABA For Disability https://abafordisability.it/en/home/ https://www.facebook.com/abafordisability/ https://www.instagram.com/abafordisability/ Valeria on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/valeriapascale/ Links: International Behavior Analysis Association https://theibao.com/ SABA Grant https://saba.abainternational.org/grants/international-development-grant/valeria-pascale/ University of Salerno Legal Sciences https://corsi.unisa.it/scienze-giuridiche-88610/en/home Articles Discussed: Pascale, V., Pritchard, J.K., C., F.P. et al. The Effects of a DRO and Self-Monitoring Program on Prisoners in an Italian Prison. Behav Analysis Practice (2025). (Open Access) https://doi.org/10.1007/s40617-025-01045-0 Pascale, V., Guercio, J. M., & Cesaro, C. (2024). Implementation of interaction style training and comprehensive staff instruction in a community-based residential setting: Expanding the influence of applied behavior analysis in Italy.Behavior Analysis: Research and Practice, 24(1), 44–55. https://doi.org/10.1037/bar0000283 Related Behaviour Speak Episodes Episode 33: Addressing Substance Use Disorders, Poverty, and AIDS Prevention Using Behavioural Science with Dr. Shrinidhi Subramanium https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-33-addressing-substance-use-disorders-poverty-and-aids-prevention-using-behavioural-science-with-dr-shrinidhi-subramaniam-phd-bcba-d/ Episode 40: Applications of Behaviour Science to Foster Care, Runaways, The Unhoused, and Bullying with Kimberly Crosland Ph.D., BCBA-D https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-40-applications-of-behaviour-science-to-foster-care-runaways-the-unhoused-and-bullying-with-kimberly-crosland-phd-bcba-d/ Episode 110: Contingency Management with Dr. Bethany Raiff https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-110-contingency-management-with-dr-bethany-raiff/ Episode 135: Addressing Human Trafficking With Behaviour Analysis with Arturo Garcia https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-135-addressing-human-trafficking-with-behavior-analysis/ Episode 205: Transfoming Health Care Through Behaviour Analysis with Dr. Andressa Sleiman, Ph.D., BCBA-D https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/transforming-health-care-through-behavior-analysis-with-dr-andressa-sleiman-phd-bcba-d/

In this episode of Behaviour Speak, I speak with Zornitsa Ivanova, the first board certified behaviour analyst living and working in Bulgaria. Zornitsa shares her journey from special education and child psychology into applied behaviour analysis (ABA), and what it has been like introducing evidence-based autism intervention in a country where the field barely existed a decade ago. From translating ABA resources into Bulgarian to helping train the next generation of practitioners, Zornitsa is helping build the foundation for behaviour analysis in Eastern Europe. If you’re interested in global behaviour analysis, autism services, or the international expansion of ABA, this conversation offers a fascinating look at what it takes to grow a field from the ground up. This episode is presented by our founding academic partner, the Doctor of Education in the field of Applied Behaviour Analysis program at Western University’s Faculty of Education. Watch the video: https://youtu.be/MDgZN7MROEY Program Information: https://www.edu.uwo.ca/graduate-education/edd/applied-behaviour-analysis.html How to apply: https://www.edu.uwo.ca/graduate-education/apply.html Program brochure: https://www.edu.uwo.ca/graduate-education/edd/foe120_edd_aba_r1.png Continuing Education Credits (https://www.cbiconsultants.com/shop) BACB: 0.5 Ethics IBAO: 0.5 Cultural QABA: 0.5 General CBA/CPD: 0.5 Cultural Diversity Follow us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/behaviourspeak/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/behaviourspeak/ Contact Zornitsa Ivanova at ABA Bloom Е-mail [email protected] Website https://www.ababloom.bg Facebook: ABA Bloom https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61561684086944 Links: International Behavior Analysis Association https://theibao.com/ Applied Behavior Analysis - Bulgaria https://www.facebook.com/groups/279540052761953/ Related Behaviour Speak Episodes Episode 242: Behaviour Analysis in Moldova with Olga Sirbu https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-242-behaviour-analysis-in-moldova-with-olga-sirbu-bcba-lba-iba/ Episode 234: Behaviour Analysis in Croatia and Montenegro with Rea Vuksan https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-234-behaviour-analysis-in-croatia-montenegro-with-rea-vuksan-mads-scid-bcba-iba/ Episode 215 : Behaviour Analysis in Turkiye with Dr. Buket Kısaç Demiroğlu https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-215-behavior-analysis-in-turkiye-with-dr-buket-kisac-demiroglu/ Episode 208: Behaviour Analysis in Greece with Stefania Zampanka https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-208-behavior-analysis-in-greece-with-stefania-zampanka-msc-bcba/ Episode 175: Autism in Serbia with Marija Čolić https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-175-autism-in-serbia-with-dr-marija-colic/

This episode is a special compilation recorded at the 2025 Ontario Association for Behaviour Analysis Conference, where I had the chance to sit down with four outstanding poster presenters whose work represents the next wave of thinking in our field. From mapping service access across Ontario using statistical modelling… to advancing cultural responsiveness in ABA… to examining bilingual instruction and innovative approaches to teaching safety skills — these conversations highlight how emerging scholars are pushing behaviour analysis forward in meaningful, practical ways. This episode is presented by our founding university partner, Western Education — home to the Doctor of Education in the Field of Applied Behaviour Analysis — a program designed for experienced professionals ready to lead in clinical practice, research, and systems-level change. Watch the video: https://youtu.be/1l0_uH6Iqdk Program Information: https://www.edu.uwo.ca/grad uate-education/edd/applied-behaviour-analysis.html How to apply: https://www.edu.uwo.ca/graduate-education/apply.html Program brochure: https://www.edu.uwo.ca/graduate-education/edd/foe120_edd_aba_r1.png Follow us! YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@behaviourspeak Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/behaviourspeak/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/behaviourspeak/ Contact: Qiduo He https://www.linkedin.com/in/qiduo-he-75008a269/ Erin Williamson https://www.linkedin.com/in/williamson-erin/ Charlotte May https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlotte-may-behavioural-psychology-57507126a/ Kaysia Nedjelski https://www.linkedin.com/in/kaysianedjelski/

En el episodio de hoy, me complace darle la bienvenida nuevamente a Jessie Arroyave del Episodio 201: Análisis del comportamiento en Guatemala como presentadora invitada, entrevistando a Elizabeth López Miranda, analista del comportamiento y patóloga del habla y el lenguaje con licencia de Argentina. Esta conversación es nuestro tercer episodio presentado por invitadas que presenta entrevistas en otros idiomas y nuestra segunda entrevista en español. ¡Espero que disfrutes aprendiendo sobre todo lo relacionado con el análisis del comportamiento en Argentina con Elizabeth y Jessie! In today's episode, I'm excited to welcome back Jessie Arroyave from Episode 201: Behaviour Analysis in Guatemala as a guest host, interviewing Elizabeth López Miranda, a behaviour analyst and licensed speech-language pathologist from Argentina. This conversation is our third guest-hosted episode featuring interviews in other languages, and our second interview in Spanish. I hope you enjoy learning about all things behaviour analysis in Argentina with Elizabeth and Jessie! Créditos de Educación Continua/CEUs (https://www.cbiconsultants.com/shop) BACB: 1.0 Ética/Ethics IBAO: 1.0 Cultura/Cultural QABA: 1.0 Ética/Ethics CBA: 1.0 Diversidad Cultural/Cultural Diversity Contacto/Contact Elizabeth López Miranda Website https://www.theabateam.com/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/abatteam/ https://www.instagram.com/eli._lopezmiranda_/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Conductaverbal ABA Argentina https://aba-argentina.com.ar/miembros/ Jessie Arroyave Contact Jessie Arroyave [email protected] https://cima.gt Instagram https://www.instagram.com/cimaguatemala/ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessie-arroyave-323753b2/

In this conversation, Dr. Iman Farajallah shares her profound experiences and insights as a psychologist working with trauma, particularly in war zones like Gaza. She discusses her personal background, the impact of war trauma on children, and her efforts to give a voice to those affected. The conversation also touches on the challenges of mental health support in Gaza and the concept of complex continuous trauma, highlighting the ongoing struggles faced by the Palestinian population. This conversation delves into the profound and complex trauma experienced by the population of Gaza, particularly focusing on the impact on children. The discussion highlights the continuous nature of trauma, the intergenerational effects, and the parallels with other marginalized communities. Dr. Farajallah shares insights from her work training first responders and supporting refugees, as well as her personal journey of healing through spirituality. Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/-yxX3XhmWYU Follow us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/behaviourspeak/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/behaviourspeak/ Contact: LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-iman-farajallah-psyd-6aa190149/ YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@dr.imanfarajallah3658 Links: My Life Is a War: Voices of Traumatized Palestinian Children under Israeli Occupation https://www.amazon.ca/Life-War-Traumatized-Palestinian-Occupation/dp/B0D378QVCX Gaza's Children: Innocence Lost - 8 min video with some of the interviews by Dr. Farajallah with children in Gaza https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X4T5NxztIfw&t=1s The Invisible Wounds of Palestinian Children https://www.psychiatrictimes.com/view/the-invisible-wounds-of-palestinian-children Interview on Al Jazeera https://www.aljazeera.com/video/the-stream/2024/1/9/how-does-the-war-on-gaza-affect-mental-health-of-palestinian-children Interview on CBC https://www.cbc.ca/player/play/audio/1.7053750 Articles by Dr. Farajallah Farajallah I. Health and mental health services in Gaza: A system under siege. Anatolian Clin. 2024;29(Special Issue on Gaza):22-3. Farajallah, Iman. Continuous Traumatic Stress in Palestine: The Psychological Effects of the Occupation and Chronic Warfare on Palestinian Children. World Social Psychiatry 4(2):p 112-120, May–Aug 2022. | DOI: 10.4103/wsp.wsp_26_22 Farajallah I. Behind the Rubble: Psychological trauma of wars and human rights abuses on women and children in Gaza. Anatolian Clin. 2024;29(Special Issue on Gaza):119-36. Farajallah, I. (2018). Children of War: Psychological Impacts of War and Postwar Trauma on the Palestinian Children in the Gaza Strip (Doctoral dissertation, Sofia University). Related Behaviour Speak Episodes Episode 232: Behaviour Analysis in Sudan with Salma Abdelrahmanabdalla https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-232-behaviour-analysis-in-sudan-with-salma-abdelrahmanabdalla-med-iba-qba/ Episode 197: Understanding Moral Injury with Dr. C. Richard Spates https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-197-understanding-moral-injury-with-dr-c-richard-spates/ Episode 191: Behaviour Analysis in Belarus with Анна Калиновская, M.A., BCBA, IBA (Hanna Kalinouskaya) https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/behaviouranalysis-in-belaruswith-hannakalinouskaya-bcba-iba/ Episode 184 Behaviour Analysis in Ukraine with Alla Moskalets https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-184-behavior-analysis-in-ukraine-with-alla-moskalets/ Episode 176: Religion, Spirituality, and Mental Health with Dr. Janice Parker https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-176-religion-spirituality-and-mental-health/ Episode 139: Threads of Hope: Addressing Trauma Amid War and Civil Discord with Sawsan Razzouk, M.A., BCBA https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-139threads-of-hope-addressing-trauma-amid-war-and-civil-discord-with-sawsan-razzouk-ma-bcba/ Episodes 31 and 32: Special Series on Supporting Refugees from Ukraine Episode 1 and 2 https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-31specialseries-onsupporting-refugeesfromukraine-episode-1coordinating-supports-forrefugee-families-ofchildrenwithdisabilities-with-sophie/ https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-32specialseries-onsupporting-refugeesfromukraine-episode-2tipson-providing-directsupport-toukrainianrefugee-families-with-autistic-children/

We’re back with Episode 2 in our Special Series on The Constructional Approach. In this conversation, Madhura Deshpande discusses various aspects of behavioural analysis, focusing on the transition of clients to adult settings, the effectiveness of constructional approaches in medical procedures, and the importance of active participation in achieving rapid results. She emphasizes the need for proper staff training, ethical collaboration in behavioural pharmacology, and the significance of recognizing and building on existing repertoires to improve client outcomes. The discussion also touches on the development of an app to track medication effects and the challenges faced in staff turnover within the field. Continuing Education Credits (https://www.cbiconsultants.com/shop) BACB: 1.5 Learning IBAO: 1.5 ABA Topics QABA: 1.5 General CBA/CPD: 1.5 Learning Follow us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/behaviourspeak/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/behaviourspeak/ Contact LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/madhuraaba/ Proactive Behaviour Analysts : https://www.pactba.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/pactba/ https://www.instagram.com/proactiveba/ Links: The Constructional Approach Website https://theconstructionalapproach.com/ The Constructional Approach Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/700952357829957 The Institute for Applied Behavior Science at Endicott College https://www.endicott.edu/academics/schools/institute-for-applied-behavioral-science Special Series On The Constructional Approach on Behaviour Speak Episode 250: The Constructional Approach: A Primer with Awab Abdel-Jalil https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-250-the-constructional-approach-a-primer-with-awab-abdel-jalil/ Articles and Books Discussed Deshpande, M., Cauchi, J. & Gerhardt, P. The SAFER Tool: Promoting Independence and Safety in Sexual Education for Individuals with Autism and Other Developmental Disabilities. Sex Disabil 43, 32 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11195-025-09909-7 Deshpande, M., Weil, L., Renshaw, E., Duyile, L., & Cox, D. J. (in review). Bridging behavioural pharmacology and behaviour analysis: A guide to developing practical medication data collection tools for practitioners. Behavior Analysis in Practice.

In this conversation, Madonna Bonny shares her journey from her early experiences in Georgia to becoming a BCBA and opening her own center in Georgia. She discusses the evolution of autism services in Georgia, the importance of parent involvement, and the role of the International Behaviour Analysis Organization (IBAO) in supporting ABA development. Madonna highlights the barriers faced in the ABA field, shares success stories from her practice, and reflects on the cultural dynamics of working with families in Georgia. She emphasizes the need for continued training and support for behaviour analysts and the importance of understanding the unique challenges faced by autistic individuals and their families. Continuing Education Credits (https://www.cbiconsultants.com/shop) BACB: 1.0 Ethics IBAO: 1.0 Cultural QABA: 1.0 General CBA/CPD: 1.0 Cultural Diversity Follow us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/behaviourspeak/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/behaviourspeak/ Contact LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/madonna-bonny-38993a45/?isSelfProfile=false Links: International Behavior Analysis Association https://theibao.com/ Related Behaviour Speak Episodes Episode 242: Behaviour Analysis in Moldova with Olga Sirbu, BCBA, LBA, IBA https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-242-behaviour-analysis-in-moldova-with-olga-sirbu-bcba-lba-iba/ Episode 229: Behaviour Analysis in Kyrgyzstan with Dr. Anastasiia Iun https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-229-behavior-analysis-in-kyrgyzstan-with-dr-anastasiia-iun/ Episode 215 : Behavior Analysis in Turkiye with Dr. Buket Kısaç Demiroğlu https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-215-behavior-analysis-in-turkiye-with-dr-buket-kisac-demiroglu/ Episode 184 Behaviour Analysis in Ukraine with Alla Moskalets https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-184-behavior-analysis-in-ukraine-with-alla-moskalets/

In this conversation, Awab Abdel-Jalil discusses the evolution and significance of the constructional approach in behavior analysis. Awab Abdel-Jalil is the Associate Vice President of Applied Research at Upstate Caring Partners in Utica, NY, and a doctoral candidate at Endicott College under the mentorship of Dr. Joe Layng. He emphasizes the importance of understanding historical context, the role of ascent in learning, and the scrutiny faced by ABA, which can lead to positive changes. Awab shares his personal journey into the field, the influence of mentorship, and the legacy of Israel Gold Diamond. He also addresses common misunderstandings of nonlinear contingency analysis and highlights the growing resources available for practitioners. The conversation concludes with insights into future directions in constructional therapy and the importance of harnessing negative reinforcers in practice. Continuing Education Credits (https://www.cbiconsultants.com/shop) BACB: 1.5 Learning IBAO: 1.5 ABA Topics QABA: 1.5 General CBA/CPD: 1.5 Learning Follow us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/behaviourspeak/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/behaviourspeak/ Contact LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/awab-abdel-jalil-64541a196/ Upstate Caring Partners: https://www.upstatecp.org/ The Institute for Applied Behavior Science at Endicott College https://www.endicott.edu/academics/schools/institute-for-applied-behavioral-science Links: The Constructional Approach Website https://theconstructionalapproach.com/ The Constructional Approach Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/700952357829957 Claire St. Peter on The Behavioral Observations Podcast https://open.spotify.com/episode/5NLz4wfAT9paQfzvut11K1 Articles and Books Discussed Abdel-Jalil, A., Linnehan, A. M., Yeich, R., Hetzel, K., Amey, J., & Klick, S. (2023). Can there be compassion without assent? A nonlinear constructional approach. Behavior Analysis in Practice, 1-12. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40617-023-00850-9 Goldiamond, I. (2002). Toward a constructional approach to social problems: Ethical and constitutional issues raised by Applied Behavior Analysis. Behavior and Social Issues, 11(2), 108-197. https://doi.org/10.5210/bsi.v11i2.92 (Original work published in 1974). Goldiamond, I. (1984). Training parents and ethicists in nonlinear behavior analysis. In R. F. Dangel & R. A. Polster (Eds.), Parent training: Foundations of research and practice (pp. 504–546). Guilford. Layng, T. V. J., & Abdel-Jalil, A. (2022). Toward a constructional exposure therapy. Advances in Cognitive Therapy, Fall, 8–11. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/373767631_TOWARD_A_CONSTRUCTIONAL_EXPOSURE_THERAPY Layng, T. V. J., Andronis, P. T., Codd III, R. T., & Abdel-Jalil, A. (2022). Nonlinear contingency analysis: Going beyond cognition and behavior in clinical practice. Routledge. Liden, T. A., & Rosales-Ruiz, J. (2024a). Constructional parent coaching: A collaborative approach to improve the lives of parents of children with autism. Behavior Analysis in Practice. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40617-024-00944-y Linnehan, A. M., Abdel-Jalil, A., Klick, S., Amey, J., Yeich, R., & Hetzel, K. (2023). Foundations of preemptive compassion: A behavioral concept analysis of compulsion, consent, and assent. Behavior Analysis in Practice. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40617-023-00890-1 Scallan, C. M., & Rosales-Ruiz, J. (2023). The constructional approach: A compassionate approach to behavior change. Behavior Analysis in Practice. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40617-023-00811-2 Wilder, D. A., Ingram, G., & Hodges, A. C. (2021). Evaluation of shoe inserts to reduce toe walking in young children with autism. Behavioral Interventions, 37(3), 754–765. https://doi.org/10.1002/bin.1860 Books coming this summer: Nonlinear Contingency Analysis: Going Beyond Cognition and Behavior in Clinical Practice. Second Edition. Layng, T. V. J., Andronis, P. T., Codd III, R. T., & Abdel-Jalil, A. Applications in Nonlinear Contingency Analysis. Abdel-Jalil, A., & Linnehan, A. (Editors)