Cultural CEUs

What does it take to build behaviour analysis in the middle of economic collapse, political instability, and war?
In this episode of Behaviour Speak, Ben Reiman speaks with Christine Der Sarkissian, President of the Association for Behavior Analysis in Lebanon (ABAL), about the remarkable growth of ABA in Lebanon. They discuss parent advocacy, professional certification, culturally responsive practice, inclusion, interdisciplinary collaboration, and the challenges of delivering autism services during ongoing crisis.
Whether you're interested in global behaviour analysis, autism services, cultural responsiveness, or systems change, this conversation offers valuable lessons in resilience and leadership.
Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/x9mYHLNXy6c
Continuing Education Credits
BACB: 1.0 EthicsIBAO:  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
According to Christine, what factor played the most foundational role in establishing ABA services in Lebanon?
A. Government funding initiatives
B. Universities creating ABA programs
C. Parent advocacy and initiatives
D. International insurance companies
Question 2
Which challenge did Christine identify as one of the greatest barriers to expanding high-quality ABA services throughout Lebanon?
A. A lack of interest from families
B. Too many certified supervisors
C. A shortage of supervisory-level behaviour analysts
D. Excessive government regulation
Question 3
Which practice best reflects the culturally responsive approach to ABA described by Christine?
A. Using identical intervention procedures regardless of family culture
B. Adapting intervention goals to align with family values, culture, and meaningful daily life
C. Prioritizing standardized protocols over family preferences
D. Limiting family involvement to reduce treatment interference
Contact Christine
LinkedIn
https://www.linkedin.com/in/christine-der-sarkissian-6a667750/
Links:
ABA Lebanon
http://abalebanon.com/
https://www.instagram.com/abalebanon/
https://www.facebook.com/abalebanon/
Learn more about some of the great work being done by Lebanese Behaviour Analysts in these interviews:
Behaviour Analysis in Lebanon and Qatar with Rola El Annan
https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/ep-94-behaviour-analysis-in-lebanon-and-qatar-with-rola-el-annan-med-bcba/
Threads Of Hope: Addressing Trauma Amid War and Civil Discord with Sawsan Razzouk
https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-139threads-of-hope-addressing-trauma-amid-war-and-civil-discord-with-sawsan-razzouk-ma-bcba/
Safeguarding Vulnerable Children In The Arab World With Dr. Asmahan Saleh Khalil
https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-200-safeguarding-vulnerable-children-in-the-arab-world-with-dr-asmahan-saleh-khalil/
 

For decades, behaviour analysts have worked to develop evidence-based interventions that improve quality of life for children and families.
But evidence-based doesn't always mean culturally responsive.
In this episode, Ben welcomes Chloe Wang, BCBA and PhD candidate at the University of British Columbia, whose dissertation explores a culturally responsive, group-based Family-Centred Positive Behaviour Support program designed specifically for Chinese immigrant families of children with autism.
Chloe shares her remarkable journey from immigrating to Canada as a teenager, discovering behaviour analysis almost by accident, completing her master's degree at Brock University, helping establish an autism treatment centre in China, and returning to UBC to pursue research that bridges science with culture.
One of the most compelling aspects of Chloe's work is her commitment to co-design. Before launching her randomized controlled trial, she conducted focus groups with both families and professionals to refine every aspect of the intervention—from language and examples to program structure and delivery.
Those conversations led to significant changes, including splitting the original 16-week program into two levels and expanding discussions around reinforcement and punishment after families expressed a desire to fully understand behavioural principles before embracing Positive Behaviour Support.
Ben and Chloe also explore:
Why culture influences how families experience behavioural intervention
The importance of implementation science in clinical practice
Family-centred PBS across prevention tiers
Measuring meaningful outcomes beyond behaviour reduction
Maintaining treatment effects after intervention ends
Using technology to improve long-term sustainability
Future directions for culturally responsive behaviour analysis
This episode highlights how listening to families doesn't weaken behaviour analysis—it strengthens it.
As our profession continues to grow globally, Chloe's work provides a thoughtful roadmap for adapting evidence-based practice while remaining grounded in behavioural science.
Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/4qOZ1GAVFCw
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
 
Contact Chloe
LinkedIn
https://www.linkedin.com/in/chloewangaba/
City Medical Child Development Centre
https://citychildclinic.com/case-study/chloe-wang/
Interested in learning more about Positive Behaviour Support and culturally responsive practice? Check out these related conversations from the Behaviour Speak archives:
Family-Centred Positive Behaviour Support with Dr. Joseph Lucyshyn (Part 1) – Learn about the foundations of Family-Centred PBS from one of its developers, including the ecological and behavioural principles that informed Chloe's dissertation.Episode 43: Family-Centred Positive Behaviour Support (Part 1)
Family-Centred Positive Behaviour Support with Dr. Joseph Lucyshyn (Part 2) – Continue the discussion with an exploration of implementation, ethics, cultural responsiveness, and building sustainable support for families.Episode 44: Family-Centred Positive Behaviour Support (Part 2)
Empowering the Chinese Autism Community with Hazel Lim – Explore autism advocacy, family support, and community leadership within Chinese communities, complementing Chloe's discussion of culturally responsive service delivery.Episode 212: Empowering the Chinese Autism Community with Hazel Lim
Culturally Responsive Autism Support in Indigenous Communities – Drs. Candi Running Bear, Davis E. Henderson, and Olivia Lindly discuss culturally responsive autism supports and the importance of partnering with communities—many themes that resonate with Chloe's research.Culturally Responsive Autism Support in Indigenous Communities
Beyond Behaviour Reduction: Reclaiming the Constructional Approach in PBS – Oliver Roschke and John Wooderson explore how Positive Behaviour Support can move beyond reducing challenging behaviour to building meaningful, sustainable lives—an important philosophical companion to Chloe's work on Family-Centred PBS.Beyond Behaviour Reduction: Reclaiming the Constructional Approach in PBS
 

When Mafer Chang Espinoza returned to Ecuador after completing her education in the United States, she found a country where autism was poorly understood, ABA was virtually nonexistent, and many families had nowhere to turn.
Rather than accepting the status quo, she began building something entirely new.
Starting with just a few children, ethical supervision from international mentors, and a vision for accessible services, Mafer founded Centro Enigma—an organization that has spent more than a decade transforming autism services throughout Ecuador.
In this conversation, Ben and Mafer discuss:
How Mafer first discovered behaviour analysis
Returning home to Ecuador to build autism services
Overcoming myths surrounding autism and ABA
The challenges of practicing ethically without local certification pathways
Building Centro Enigma from two clients into a nationally recognized organization
Providing services to rural and underserved communities
Adapting ABA to Ecuadorian culture and family life
Training Ecuador's next generation of behaviour analysts
Creating affordable parent coaching models
Developing an inclusive school recognized by Ecuador's Ministry of Education
Working with Global Autism Project
Growing autism awareness across Ecuador
The future of behaviour analysis in Latin America
This episode is an inspiring example of persistence, leadership, and the power of behaviour analysis to create meaningful systems change.
Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/7sSeRA5Elbk
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
 
Contact Mafer
LinkedIn
https://www.linkedin.com/in/maria-fernanda-chang-espinoza-b79889118/
Centro Enigma
https://www.instagram.com/centroenigma/
https://centroenigma.com/
https://www.facebook.com/centroenigma
UNIDAD EDUCATIVA FREDERIC SKINNER
https://www.instagram.com/skinner.ecu/
 
If you enjoyed this conversation about the development of behaviour analysis in Ecuador, be sure to explore these related Behaviour Speak episodes featuring clinicians and leaders from across Latin America:
Behaviour Analysis in Guatemalahttps://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/behavior-analysis-in-guatemala/
Behaviour Analysis in Venezuelahttps://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-192-behavior-analysis-in-venezuela-with-dr-mirari-elcoro-amalix-flores-and-dr-corina-jimenez-gomez/
Behaviour Analysis in Puerto Ricohttps://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-155-behavior-analysis-in-puerto-rico/
¿Quiénes Somos? An Exploration of Latinidad in Behavior Analysishttps://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/ep-172-quienes-somos-an-exploration-of-latinidad/
Análisis Aplicado de la Conducta en Colombia https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/ep-233-analisis-aplicado-de-la-conducta-en-colombia-con-johanna-avila-meza-msc-iba/
Análisis Aplicado de la Conducta en Argentina https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/ep-253-analisis-aplicado-dela-conducta-enargentinaconelizabethlopezmirandalicfonoaudiologiabcaba-iba-conla-presentadora-invitadajessie-arroyave-med/
Together, these conversations explore how behaviour analysts across Latin America are advancing autism services, building professional capacity, adapting evidence-based practices to local cultures, and creating more inclusive communities.

What does it take to build and advance a profession while simultaneously running a busy clinical practice, leading a national organization, and completing a PhD?
In this episode, Ben Reiman welcomes Niesha Illingworth for a wide-ranging conversation about the current state—and future—of behaviour analysis in Australia. Drawing on nearly twenty years of clinical experience, Niesha reflects on how the profession has evolved, the ongoing challenges surrounding public perception of ABA, and the importance of strong professional leadership during periods of significant policy change.
The conversation explores Australia's unique model of professional self-regulation, the work of ABA Australia to strengthen certification and public trust, and the opportunities and challenges created by changing disability funding systems. Niesha also discusses her doctoral research evaluating the Balance Program, an innovative parent-implemented early intervention designed to prevent the development of severe problem behaviour before it begins.
Beyond systems and policy, Ben and Niesha examine culturally responsive practice, supporting Indigenous families, collaboration across professions, and why effective advocacy is becoming an increasingly important skill for behaviour analysts. Throughout the conversation, Niesha demonstrates how science, compassion, and systems thinking can work together to improve outcomes for children, families, and the profession itself.
Check out Behaviour Analysis In The First Nation Communities of Australia with Deb Fernando
https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-148-behaviour-analysis-in-first-nation-communities-of-australia/
Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Hs5gjgQLMxg
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
 
Contact Niesha Illingworth
LinkedIn
https://www.linkedin.com/in/niesha-illingworth-516859141/
Bright Eyes Clinic
https://beei.com.au/
Links:
Association for Behaviour Analysis Australia
https://auaba.com.au/
Related Behaviour Speak Episodes
The Balance Program
https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-3-parent-coaching-with-esdm-and-the-balance-program-with-maria-sample-ma-bcba/
Family Centred PBS
https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-43-family-centred-positive-behaviour-support-with-dr-joseph-lucyshyn-phd-bcba-d-part-1/
The Constructional Approach
Madhura Deshpande
https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-252-applications-of-the-constructional-approach-with-dr-madhura-deshpande/
Oliver Roschke and John Wooderson
https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/beyond-behaviour-reduction-reclaiming-the-constructional-approach-in-pbs-with-oliver-roschke-john-wooderson/
 

In this episode of Behaviour Speak, Ben Reiman is joined by Dianna Yip, behaviour analyst and practitioner with over a decade of experience building services in Hong Kong.
Dianna shares her journey from Vancouver to Hong Kong and what it was like entering a system with limited services, minimal regulation, and little awareness of ABA or PBS. Over time, she helped grow access, build community, and shift perceptions—often starting from scratch.
This conversation explores how culture shapes behaviour support, from parenting expectations to professional practice. Dianna explains why positive behaviour support (PBS) has been more readily accepted than ABA in Hong Kong, and how language, history, and collaboration play a role.
Together, they unpack:
The realities of autism services in Hong Kong
Why ABA is often misunderstood—and how PBS helps bridge the gap
The challenges of privately funded care and lack of regulation
Cultural values like compliance, academic success, and authority
How to balance respect for culture with person‑centred practice
The conversation also dives into emerging ideas that are still gaining traction in the region:
Assent-based practice and mutual respect
Neurodiversity and shifting from charity to empowerment
Moving from compliance to collaboration
Dianna also shares her work in building international practitioner communities, including the Global PBS Coalition, aimed at bringing more diverse perspectives into behaviour science.
This is a thoughtful, grounded conversation about what happens when behavioural science meets culture—and how we can do better when we listen, adapt, and stay curious.
 
Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/rr7g18L9J-M
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
Find Diana here!
LinkedIn
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dianna-yip-plai/
PBS Asia
https://www.pbsa.asia/
P.L.A.I. Consulting
https://plaiconsulting.com/
Resources:
The Global PBS Coalition
https://globalpbscoalition.org/
Related Episodes:
Empowering The Chinese Autism Community 
https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-212-empowering-the-chinese-autism-community-with-hazel-lim/
Reclaiming the Constructional Approach in PBS with Dr. John Wooderson and Oliver Roschke
https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/beyond-behaviour-reduction-reclaiming-the-constructional-approach-in-pbs-with-oliver-roschke-john-wooderson/  
Family Centred Positive Behaviour Support with Dr. Joe Lucyshyn
https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-43-family-centred-positive-behaviour-support-with-dr-joseph-lucyshyn-phd-bcba-d-part-1/
https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-44-family-centred-positive-behaviour-support-with-dr-joseph-lucyshyn-phd-bcba-d-part-2/
 

What does truly culturally responsive autism support look like—and who should lead it?
In this episode, Ben speaks with Dr. Davis Henderson, Dr. Candi Running Bear, and Dr. Olivia Lindly about their work adapting the Parents Taking Action program for Diné (Navajo) families. Together, they unpack how geography, language, family structure, and cultural values shape access to autism services—and how their team is working alongside communities to close those gaps.
From telehealth delivery across vast rural regions to adapting AAC tools in Indigenous languages, this conversation highlights what it really takes to move beyond “one-size-fits-all” care.
The team also shares their innovative next step: empowering parents to train educators—flipping the traditional model of expertise on its head.
What You’ll Learn
Why autism awareness and services remain limited in many Indigenous communities
How the Diné Parents Taking Action program was culturally adapted
The role of community advisory boards in ethical, effective research
How telehealth unexpectedly improved access and connection
Why AAC must be culturally and linguistically responsive
The importance of extended family systems in caregiving
How parents are being empowered to train educators
What culturally responsive autism assessment still gets wrong—and how to improve it
Key Topics & Highlights
Adapting evidence-based interventions for Indigenous communities
Barriers: rural geography, transportation, internet, and systemic gaps
Language access—including the need for autism terminology in Navajo
Cultural values like Hózhó and their role in care
AAC innovation: from iPads to paper-based systems in low-resource settings
Community connection as an intervention outcome
Expanding work to Hopi and other Indigenous communities
Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/XWkC-7l19is
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
 
About the Guests
Dr. Davis Henderson – Associate Professor, Northern Arizona University. Navajo researcher focused on communication disorders and culturally responsive care.
https://directory.nau.edu/?person=dh929
Dr. Candi Running Bear – Assistant Professor, University of New Mexico. Former special education teacher with deep experience in early childhood education on the Navajo Nation.
https://coehs.unm.edu/faculty-staff/profiles/running-bear-candi.html
Dr. Olivia Lindly – Associate Professor, Northern Arizona University. Public health researcher focused on maternal and child health and autism services.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/olivia-lindly-phd-mph-3323306/
https://directory.nau.edu/?person=ojl28
 
Research Discussed:
Lindly OJ, Running Bear CL, Henderson DE, Lopez K, Nozadi SS, Vining C, Bia S, Hill E and Leaf A (2023). Adaptation of the Parents Taking Action program for Diné (Navajo) parents of children with autism. Front. Educ. 8:1197197. doi: 10.3389/feduc.2023.1197197
Lindly, O., Running Bear, C., Henderson, D. E., Kirby, B. R., Begay, V., Shui, A., Dababnah, S., & Magaña, S. M. (2025). Pilot study of a strengths-based education program for Diné (Navajo) families of autistic children: Feasibility, fidelity, acceptability, and initial outcomes. Research in Autism, 127, 202658. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.reia.2025.202658
Related Episodes:
https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-37-the-realities-of-autism-in-first-nations-communities-in-canada-with-grant-bruno-phd-candidate/
https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-147-culturally-responsive-care-in-indigenous-communities-with-dr-jaxcy-turietta/
https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/behavior-analysis-and-indigenous-ways-of-being-with-leslie-peters

In this episode of Behaviour Speak, Ben Reiman sits down with Dr. Anna Kawennison Fetter, Indigenous licensed psychologist (enrolled member of the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe), Assistant Professor at Duke School of Medicine in the Department of Psychiatry & Behavioural Sciences. They explore how Indigenous mental health is shaped by history, invisibility, and academic systems that were never designed to include Indigenous people.Anna shares how discovering Indigenous scholarship on historical loss, historical trauma, and the soul wound transformed her understanding of psychology—and of herself. Together, Ben and Anna unpack how settler colonialism shows up as chronic psychological stress for Indigenous students, especially in predominantly white institutions, through everyday experiences like erasure, identity policing, and cultural invalidation.The conversation dives into Anna’s research developing culturally grounded measures of stress and microaggressions, highlighting why traditional psychological models often fail to capture Indigenous lived experience—and why “you can’t see what you’re not measuring.”In the second half of the episode, Anna reflects on her time in an Indigenous‑led research group mentored by Dr. Joseph Gone. She explains how this collective, community‑based approach to research functioned almost like an intervention—offering mentorship, skill‑building, belonging, and hope in a system that regularly pushes Indigenous scholars out.This is a powerful conversation about:
Why recruitment without structural change doesn’t workHow mentorship must go beyond warmth and affirmationWhy ignorance is not an excuse to disengageAnd what becomes possible when research finally reflects lived experience
Topics Covered
Historical loss vs. intergenerational traumaThe “soul wound” and Indigenous mental healthMicroaggressions specific to Indigenous studentsInvisibility and identity policing in academic spacesEthnic identity as a buffer for well-beingIndigenous‑led research and mentorship as resistanceBuilding culturally responsive systems—not just diverse ones
Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/9q86FBWMe2c
 
 
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
Contact Dr. Fetter:
https://psychiatry.duke.edu/profile/anna-fetter
https://www.annakawennison.com/
Research Discussed:
Fetter, A. K., Christophe, N. K., & Thompson, M. N. (2025). Measurement invariance of the revised multigroup ethnic identity measure among a national sample of Native American and Alaska Native college students. Cultural Diversity & Ethnic Minority Psychology. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1037/cdp0000758
Fetter, A. K., Wiglesworth, A., Rey, L. F., Young, A. R., Azarani, M., & Gone, J. P. (2024). Supporting the Next Generation of Indigenous Psychologists: An Illustrative Case Example. The Counseling Psychologist, 52(7), 1174-1202. https://doi.org/10.1177/00110000241283697
Fetter, A.K., Williams, M. & Thompson, M.N. Perceived Racial Misclassification Among Native American and Alaska Native College Students: Preliminary Evidence for a Culturally Relevant Stressor. Race Soc Probl 18, 27 (2026). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12552-026-09493-1
Fetter, A. K., & Thompson, M. N. (2023). The impact of historical loss on Native American college students' mental health: The protective role of ethnic identity. Journal of Counselling Psychology, 70(5), 486–497. https://doi.org/10.1037/cou0000686
 
 

Today on Behaviour Speak, Ben sits down with Dr. Ammara Khalid for a powerful conversation on the intergenerational impact of the 1947 Partition of South Asia.
Together, they explore one of the largest mass migrations in human history and the trauma, displacement, silence, and resilience that continue to shape generations across the South Asian diaspora.
Drawing from her clinical work, research, and her own family’s migration story, Dr. Khalid discusses how trauma is passed through families not only through stories, but also through silence, survival patterns, cultural expectations, and the body itself.
Ben and Dr. Khalid discuss:
The historical and psychological impact of the Partition of India and Pakistan
Intergenerational trauma and inherited survival responses
Silence, stigma, and emotional suppression in South Asian families
Decolonizing mental health practices
The role of curiosity, compassion, storytelling, and community in healing
Cultural approaches to therapy, music, movement, spirituality, and collective care
Racism, migration, identity, and belonging in the diaspora
Dr. Khalid’s upcoming book: The South Asian Guide to Healing: Breaking the Cycle of Trauma
This episode is an important conversation about memory, migration, resilience, and healing — and about learning how to honour our histories without being trapped by them.
Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/-Hp9ZPVZY9Q
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
 
Resources
 The Partition Museum - https://www.partitionmuseum.org/1947 Archive Project - https://www.1947archive.org/Jessica Kingsley Publishers - https://www.jkp.com/Dr. Ammara Khalid's Website - https://riapsychologicalservices.com/Follow Dr. Ammara Khalid on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/drammarakhalid/
 
 

In this episode, Ben speaks with Rahma Farah, Ikram Buralle, Suaad Jama, and Nasteya Mahamoud of the Somali Behaviour Analysis Association, a growing, community-led initiative focused on expanding autism awareness and behaviour analytic services for Somali populations. Drawing from their experiences across Somalia and the diaspora, the group shares the realities of introducing ABA in a region where awareness of autism is still emerging, stigma remains a significant barrier, and access to trained professionals is extremely limited. Through advocacy, education, and community-building, they are working to lay the foundation for sustainable, culturally relevant services—while also inspiring the next generation of Somali behaviour analysts.
Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/0BATtF526HA
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
 
Contact The Somali Behaviour Analysis Association:
LinkTree:
https://linktr.ee/sbaaofficial?utm_source=linktree_profile_share&ltsid=9fde82a3-2e24-452b-93b8-4267f277df5d
Website:
https://somalibehaviouranalysisassociation.org/
LinkedIn
https://www.linkedin.com/company/somali-behaviour-analysis-association/
Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/sbaa.official
Ikram Buralle:
LinkedIn
https://www.linkedin.com/in/ikramburalle/
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/ikramtalksbehavior/
Rahma Farah
LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/rahma-farah-92084b120/
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/prospering_minds_consultancy/
Website:
https://prosperingmindsconsultancy.co.uk/
Suaad Jama
Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/suaa.aad/
Nasteya Mahamoud
LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/nasteya-mahamud-548241184/
Links:
Dhoodaan
https://www.instagram.com/dhoodaan_/
Three related episodes of Behaviour Speak, which I think you might find really interesting, would be:
Episode 232: Behaviour Analysis in Sudan
https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-232-behaviour-analysis-in-sudan-with-salma-abdelrahmanabdalla-med-iba-qba/
Episode 218: Behaviour Analysis in Morocco
https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-218-behavior-analysis-in-morocco-with-mina-el-qalli-qasp-s-iba/
Episode 198: Behaviour Analysis in the UK  (featuring Rahma Farah!)
https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-198-the-evolution-of-behavior-analysis-in-the-uk-with-rahma-farah-and-rochelle-gray/

In this powerful and deeply personal episode, Ben sits down with Dr. Setareh (Star) Moslemi, an Iranian behaviour analyst whose journey into the field of ABA was shaped by displacement, loss, and a profound sense of responsibility. Growing up in Iran as a member of the Baháʼí Faith, Star experienced systemic barriers to education and opportunity. At 16, her family made the difficult decision to leave Iran in search of a future where she and her siblings could access education. Shortly after arriving in Turkey, her father—who had risked everything to make that journey possible—passed away. That experience became a defining moment. In this conversation, Star reflects on how her father’s sacrifice, her identity, and her lived experience shaped her path into behaviour analysis—and her ongoing mission to expand autism support for Farsi-speaking families, many of whom face significant barriers to accessing services.
Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/zv8EL4imMjg
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
 
Contact Star:
Website:
https://www.behaviortalkwithstar.com/
Faculty Page at University of North Texas
https://pahs.unt.edu/behv/bao/faculty-staff.html
Danaa School on IG
https://www.instagram.com/school.danaa/
ABA Talk With Star Podcast (ای بی ای تاک با ستاره)
https://abatalkwithstar.buzzsprout.com/
Socials
https://www.instagram.com/dr.setareh.moslemi/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/setareh-dehghani-moslemi-phd-bcba-d-b1b904327/
 
Two other episodes, which I think you might find really interesting, would be:
Episode 239: Supporting Refugee and Migrant Students Amid Climate and War-Induced Displacement with Dr. Diana Diaków 
https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-239-supporting-refugee-and-migrant-students-amid-climate-and-war-induced-displacement-with-dr-diana-diakow/
Episode 240: Voices From Gaza:  Understanding War Trauma with Dr. Iman Farajallah
https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-240-voices-from-gaza-understanding-war-trauma-with-dr-iman-farajallah/
 
 

In this episode of Behaviour Speak, Ben sits down with Hong Chun Tan and Alexa Goh to explore the rapid development of Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) in Malaysia. What began as parent-led initiatives has evolved into a coordinated national effort—complete with certification pathways, university programs, and a growing professional community.
Hong and Alexa share the behind-the-scenes story of forming the Malaysia Association for Behaviour Analysis (MABA), developing national standards, launching the first graduate-level ABA program in Southeast Asia, and introducing the MCBA (Malaysia Certified Behaviour Analyst) credential.
They also discuss the cultural, logistical, and ethical considerations of building ABA infrastructure in a unique regional context—and what other countries can learn from Malaysia’s approach.
Watch on YouTube!:  https://youtu.be/VRjkVPemB94
Continuing Education Credits (https://www.cbiconsultants.com/shop)
BACB: 1.5 EthicsIBAO:  1.5  CulturalQABA: 1.5  GeneralCBA:    1.5  Cultural Diversity 
Follow us!
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/behaviourspeak/
LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/behaviourspeak/
Contact:
Alexa Goh
https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexagoh/
Hong Chun Tan
https://www.linkedin.com/in/hong-chun-tan-msc-bcba-qba-mcba-lba-dha-doh-a6ab7567/
Links:
MABA (Malaysia Association for Behaviour Analysis)
https://m-aba.com/
Sunway University ABA Program
https://sunwayuniversity.edu.my/faculty-of-medical-and-life-sciences/courses/master-of-applied-behaviour-analysis\
SEA ABA Conference, where professionals are coming together to shape the future of ABA in Southeast Asia.
https://seaaba.org/
Related Episodes:
https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/ep-241-behaviour-analysis-in-the-philippines-with-razelle-kaye-castillo-bcaba-kristine-gomez-ma-bcba-kathryn-mendoza-ma-ed-bcba/
https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-211-the-florida-child-welfare-behavior-analysis-services-program-with-han-leong-goh-phd-bcba-d-lba/
https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/incorporating-filipino-values-in-behavioral-health-with-dr-pauline-tolentino-pablo-dbh-bcba/
 

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 EthicsIBAO:  1.5 CulturalQABA: 1.5 GeneralCBA/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 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 EthicsIBAO:  0.5 CulturalQABA: 0.5 GeneralCBA/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    ababloom@yahoo.com
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/
 
 

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
jessiea@cima.gt
https://cima.gt
Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/cimaguatemala/
LinkedIn
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessie-arroyave-323753b2/
 

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 EthicsIBAO:  1.0 CulturalQABA: 1.0 GeneralCBA/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/
 
 

Today, I’m joined by Eliana Pozzi — a behaviour analyst, autistic self-advocate, parent, and the founder of ABA en Casa. Eliana’s journey into Applied Behaviour Analysis didn’t begin in a clinic or a graduate program, but at home — shaped by her lived experience as an autistic woman and as a mother to her daughter, Sienna, who experiences autism and ADHD.
What began as a deeply personal search for understanding and support evolved into a powerful mission: to make ABA accessible, culturally responsive, and truly useful for families. Through ABA en Casa, Eliana challenges the idea that behaviour-analytic knowledge should be locked behind credentials. Instead, she centers parents as capable, thoughtful change agents — especially within Spanish-speaking and culturally diverse communities.
In this conversation, we talk about private events, emotions, and the limits of focusing only on observable behaviour — particularly for nonverbal children whose internal experiences are often misunderstood or overlooked. Eliana shares how the environment shapes behaviour, why compassion and logic matter in teaching, and how community can reduce isolation for parents navigating complex systems.
Much of Eliana’s advocacy and education lives on Instagram, where she connects with thousands of families through @abaencasa, translating behavioural concepts into practical, relatable tools rooted in real life. You can also explore her work at abaencasa.com and learn more about her professional journey on LinkedIn.
Continuing Education Credits (https://www.cbiconsultants.com/shop)
BACB: 2.0 EthicsIBAO:  2.0 CulturalQABA: 2.0 GeneralCBA:    2.0 Cultural  
Follow us!
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/behaviourspeak/
LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/behaviourspeak/
Contact:
Eliana Pozzi/ABA en case
https://www.instagram.com/abaencasa/reels/
https://www.abaencasa.com/about
https://www.linkedin.com/in/elianapozzi/
Related Behaviour Speak Episodes
Behaviour Speak: Latino Voices
https://www.behaviourspeak.com/category/latino-voices