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What happens when a BCBA leaves the U.S. and begins practicing in a completely different culture? In this eye-opening episode, Penina speaks with Jasmin Chacko, a Board Certified Behavior Analyst now living and working in Abu Dhabi. Together, they explore how cultural humility isn't just a buzzword—it's a powerful tool that transforms client relationships and treatment outcomes. Jasmin shares how she navigates cross-cultural differences, listens deeply, and adapts ABA practice in a place where norms, expectations, and priorities are vastly different.

Discussion Points:

• Jasmin’s journey from New Jersey to Abu Dhabi
• The cultural shift from insurance-driven ABA to clinically free practice
• Defining cultural humility in a meaningful, practical way
• Real-life examples of adjusting treatment plans to respect family priorities
• Barriers to cultural humility: bias, lack of exposure, and assumptions
• The importance of parent collaboration, especially in unfamiliar cultures

In this episode, Jasmin Chacko discusses her unique perspective as a BCBA practicing in Abu Dhabi. She explains how cultural humility—listening without judgment—has become central to her work. From respecting local religious practices to adjusting treatment goals like prioritizing potty training or prayer over typical ABA milestones, Jasmin emphasizes the importance of letting the family lead. She shares practical strategies, such as approaching each client with a blank slate, asking open-ended questions like “tell me more,” and focusing on parent collaboration. The episode also dives into the challenges of bias, limited training on cultural competence, and the value of simply being open and curious.

About The Guest:

Jasmin Chacko is a BCBA originally from New Jersey who relocated to Abu Dhabi after getting married. With years of experience in the U.S. insurance-based ABA system, she now practices with greater clinical freedom in the Middle East. Jasmin brings a refreshing and respectful approach to her work, embracing cultural humility and continually adapting her methods to align with the needs and values of the families she serves.

Time Stamps:

00:00 – Jasmin’s move to Abu Dhabi & shift in ABA practice

03:00 – Defining cultural humility: Listen, don’t judge

05:00 – Why cultural humility improves client outcomes

08:45 – Practical tips for practicing cultural humility

12:00 – Explaining ABA in culturally sensitive ways

17:00 – Case study: Potty training vs. other goals

21:00 – Collaborating with caregivers & building trust

24:00 – Cultural barriers: bias, lack of exposure, assumptions

29:00 – What it means to truly connect

Ready to bring more cultural humility into your ABA practice?

Tune in to the full episode for real-world insights, thoughtful examples, and inspiration from across the globe.

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How can BCBAs foster trust with families and make parent training more effective through empathy and realistic goals?

In this episode, Penina sits down with Megan Patton to explore the power of relationship-building, open communication, and honest expectations in the BCBA-parent dynamic.

Key Questions Explored in the Episode:

• How did Megan Patton’s journey lead her to becoming a BCBA?
• What makes parent training effective in the ABA field?
• How can empathy and rapport transform the parent-professional relationship?
• What are some of the biggest misconceptions about ABA?
• How do BCBAs balance professional responsibilities with their personal roles as parents?

Summary:

Megan Patton shares her personal and professional experiences in the world of Applied Behavior Analysis. With a focus on the importance of empathy and transparency, Megan discusses how she supports parents by first building trust and then guiding them with realistic and actionable strategies. The conversation highlights how her dual perspective—as a BCBA and as a parent—helps her connect with families on a deeper level. She also addresses common challenges in parent training, offers mindset shifts for professionals, and encourages BCBAs to meet families where they are.

About the Guest:

Megan Patton is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst known for her compassionate and practical approach to supporting families with autistic children. With firsthand experience both professionally and personally, she brings a unique perspective to parent training that bridges clinical knowledge with emotional intelligence.

Key Takeaways:

• Empathy and connection are foundational to effective parent training.
• Parent training should focus on collaboration, not compliance.
• Misconceptions about ABA can be corrected through education and relationship-building.
• Realistic goal-setting builds confidence in both parents and children.
• BCBAs who are also parents bring valuable insight and relatability to their work.

Time Stamps:

00:00 Meet Megan

01:33 Megan's Journey into BCBA

04:05 Parent Training and Advocacy

04:28 Balancing BCBA and Parenthood

06:48 Effective Parent Training Strategies

13:40 Challenges and Solutions in Parent Training

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Ready to bring more empathy into your parent training sessions?

Tune in to the full episode for practical strategies and real-world insights from Megan Patton.

Access your CEU Certificate by filling out THIS form.

Join our fast-growing BCBA Community by signing up HERE.

Are you a BCBA looking for a job? Apply HERE.

How can BCBAs avoid burnout while delivering high-quality care to others?

In this episode, Penina chats with Danae Medrano, BCBA, and founder of Fave Health and Wellness Coaching, about the critical intersection of personal well-being and professional performance.

If you’re feeling stretched thin, this conversation offers the practical strategies and encouragement you need.

Key Questions Explored in the Episode:

• Why are BCBAs particularly vulnerable to burnout?
• How can mentorship and community support improve sustainability in ABA careers?
• What role do ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) strategies play in professional self-care?
• What boundaries should BCBAs be setting to protect their time and energy?

Danae Medrano shares her powerful insight as both a BCBA and a wellness coach, focusing on how practitioners can avoid burnout by investing in their own health and well-being.

The conversation dives into how ABA professionals can apply ACT principles to themselves, the importance of regular mentorship, and actionable wellness tips—from improving sleep to stress management and boundary-setting. Danae encourages BCBAs to prioritize their own mental and physical wellness to sustain long-term effectiveness and fulfillment in their work.

About The Guest:

Danae Medrano is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst and the founder of Fave Health and Wellness Coaching.

With years of clinical experience and a passion for helping practitioners thrive, Danae specializes in using behavioral science and ACT-based strategies to support other BCBAs in leading healthier, more balanced lives.

Key Takeaways:

• Burnout is common among BCBAs, but it’s preventable with proactive wellness strategies.
• ACT tools aren’t just for clients—they can help professionals process stress and maintain perspective.
• Prioritizing sleep, nutrition, and physical health supports better clinical outcomes.
• Mentorship can be a powerful tool in combating isolation and burnout.
• Setting personal and professional boundaries is essential for sustainability.

Time Stamps:

• 00:00 - Danae's Journey into ABA
• 03:24 – Mentorship and Health in ABA
• 04:19 – Burnout in the ABA Field
• 06:18 – Strategies to Combat Burnout
• 14:04 – ACT Strategies for BCBAs
• 20:58 – Balancing Work and Personal Life
• 24:26 – Setting Boundaries and Self-Care

Links for the Guest:

Connect with Danae Medrano on LinkedIn: https://www.favecoaching.com/

Feeling the strain of your BCBA role? Tune in to this episode and learn how to invest in your own well-being—because thriving professionals create thriving clients.

Access your CEU Certificate by filling out THIS form.

Join our fast-growing BCBA Community by signing up HERE.

Are you a BCBA looking for a job? Apply HERE.

What does it truly mean to be trauma-informed in the world of ABA? In this powerful and insightful episode of My BCBA Life, Penina sits down with Tricia Lund—Board Certified Behavior Analyst and certified trauma professional—to explore how trauma-informed practices can transform how we support clients. If you've ever wondered how to navigate trauma responses with sensitivity and skill, this episode is a must-listen.

Discussion Points:

• Tricia’s journey to becoming a trauma-informed BCBA
• How trauma affects regulation, behavior, and learning
• Practical tools and strategies for trauma-informed ABA
• The role of psychoeducation for parents and caregivers
• Case examples and clinical insights
• Understanding and integrating somatic experiencing
• Why humility and curiosity are essential in trauma-informed work

Summary of the Conversation:

In this enlightening episode, Penina and Tricia Lund unpack the essentials of trauma-informed ABA. Tricia shares her path to specializing in trauma and provides a grounded overview of how trauma shows up in behavioral presentations. The conversation explores how ABA practitioners can use psychoeducation, trust-building, and somatic awareness to more effectively support their clients. Through real-life examples and practical advice, Tricia illustrates how trauma-informed strategies aren't just theoretical—they’re essential for ethical and compassionate care. The episode closes with a call to BCBAs to stay open, humble, and committed to growth.

About the Guest:

Tricia Lund is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and certified trauma professional. She brings a holistic and deeply informed lens to ABA, drawing from her extensive training in trauma and somatic practices. Tricia’s work focuses on building respectful, empathetic relationships with clients and empowering ABA professionals to bring trauma-informed principles into everyday practice.

Key Takeaways:

• Trauma-informed ABA requires more than awareness—it demands intentional action.
• Building safety and rapport is foundational to behavior change.
• Psychoeducation helps shift parental perspectives and fosters collaboration.
• Somatic experiencing can help clients reconnect with their bodies and regulate their nervous systems.
• Staying within scope while integrating trauma-informed tools is both ethical and empowering.

Time Stamps:

00:00 - Journey into Trauma-Informed Therapy

06:44 – Understanding Trauma Responses

10:18 – Practical Applications of Trauma-Informed ABA

18:31 – The Importance of Psychoeducation

21:25 – Reframing Parental Perspectives

21:46 – Psychoeducation Timing

22:06 – Handling Trauma Responses

24:28 – Somatic Experiencing Explained

25:41 – Focusing on...

Access your CEU Certificate by filling out THIS form.

Join our fast-growing BCBA Community by signing up HERE.

Are you a BCBA looking for a job? Apply HERE.

Are meltdowns and tantrums the same thing? In this enlightening episode of My BCBA Life, Penina sits down with behavior analyst Julie Aiello to unpack the real differences between these two commonly misunderstood behaviors. Whether you're a parent, educator, or behavior professional, understanding these distinctions can change how you support children during tough moments.

Key Questions Explored in the Episode:

• What is the core difference between a meltdown and a tantrum?
• How can parents and professionals respond differently to each?
• What strategies can help prevent meltdowns and tantrums before they begin?
• How does preparation and functional communication play a role?
• What is the emotional impact of a parent’s response to these behaviors?

Julie Aiello is a behavior analyst with years of hands-on experience supporting children and families through behavioral challenges. Her approach is grounded in compassion, evidence-based practices, and a deep commitment to helping children develop essential emotional regulation skills.

Time Stamps:

00:00 - Meltdowns vs. Tantrums: What’s the Difference?

07:46 – Why the Distinction Matters

17:12 – Proactive Behavior Management Strategies

24:13 – Preventing Tantrums with Skill Building

25:41 – Uncovering the Goal Behind Tantrums

28:43 – Navigating Meltdowns: What Helps

31:27 – Front Loading for Success

35:37 – Communication and Emotional Validation

40:07 – Parental Impact and Final Thoughts

Struggling to understand your child’s behaviors?

Tune in to this episode for expert tips and compassionate guidance that can make a real difference.

Access your CEU Certificate by filling out THIS form.

Join our fast-growing BCBA Community by signing up HERE.

Are you a BCBA looking for a job? Apply HERE.

--Ever felt like every request turns into a battle with your child? Discover the unique world of Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) and how it intersects with autism in this insightful episode of 'My BCBA Life.' Host Penina sits down with Lauren Reed, a seasoned BCBA, to unpack the complexities of PDA, exploring why some children instinctively resist demands and how parents can navigate these challenges with empathy and understanding.

Key Questions Explored in the Episode:

• What is Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) and how is it different from typical autism behaviors?
• How can parents identify signs of PDA in their children?
• What strategies can reduce power struggles and promote collaboration?
• How does the PANDA approach help in managing PDA effectively?
• What can parents do to support their own mental health while caring for a child with PDA?

Lauren Read, BCBA, joins the show to demystify Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA), a lesser-known but increasingly recognized profile within the autism spectrum. She explains that PDA is characterized by extreme resistance to everyday demands due to a heightened need for autonomy and control, often mistaken for oppositional behavior. The conversation highlights the importance of collaboration over authority, practical strategies to avoid power struggles, and the role of co-regulation in helping children manage their emotions. Lauren also shares insights on recognizing physical signs of distress, setting collaborative boundaries, and fostering a safe, supportive home environment.

About the Guest:

Lauren Reed is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) specializing in working with children on the autism spectrum. She has a deep understanding of PDA and its impact on families, offering compassionate, evidence-based strategies for managing challenging behaviors.

Key Takeaways:

• PDA is a distinct profile within autism that requires a unique approach.
• Collaboration and flexibility are critical for reducing power struggles.
• Recognizing bodily responses can help parents anticipate and manage challenging behaviors.
• Creating a safe and supportive environment can significantly improve outcomes for children with PDA.
• Self-care is essential for parents managing the emotional toll of PDA.

Time Stamps:

00:00 Introduction and Casual Conversation

02:59 Setting the Stage: Free CEUs and Surprise Words

03:50 Guest Introduction: Meet Lauren Reed

04:50 Understanding Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA)

05:55 Identifying PDA in Children

08:47 Approaching PDA: Strategies and Techniques

14:17 Parenting Tips for Managing PDA

19:53 Collaborative Parenting Approach

20:45 Avoiding Power Struggles

22:26 The Importance of Responsibility

24:37 Setting Collaborative Rules

27:10...

Access your CEU Certificate by filling out THIS form.

Join our fast-growing BCBA Community by signing up HERE.

Are you a BCBA looking for a job? Apply HERE.

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What makes a truly effective leader in the world of ABA?

In this episode, Penina sits down with Paola Ortiz, a seasoned BCBA and Psychology Professor, to uncover the leadership qualities that set exceptional BCBAs apart.

From fostering empathy with families to setting clear goals for their teams, Paola shares her insights on how to lead with purpose, clarity, and consistency.

Key Questions Explored in the Episode:

• What are the essential leadership traits for BCBAs?
• How can ABA professionals build meaningful connections with families?
• Why is empathy a critical component of effective leadership?
• What can the "Jam Study" teach us about decision-making in leadership?
• How can continuous learning shape a BCBA's leadership journey?

In this insightful episode, Penina speaks with Paola Ortiz about the critical leadership skills required for BCBAs. Paola emphasizes the importance of clear communication, consistency, and empathy when working with both families and colleagues.

She highlights real-life examples of leadership in action, discussing how small decisions can have significant impacts on the effectiveness of ABA practice. Paola also introduces the Jam Study as a powerful metaphor for decision-making in leadership, encouraging listeners to prioritize clarity and purpose in their roles.

About The Guest:

Paola Ortiz is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and Psychology Professor with a passion for guiding ABA professionals in their leadership journeys.

With years of experience in the field, Paola is dedicated to helping fellow BCBAs develop the skills needed to lead teams effectively and foster meaningful connections with the families they serve.

Key Takeaways:

1. Clear communication and consistency are foundational to effective leadership.
2. Empathy and emotional intelligence are critical when engaging with parents and team members.
3. Decision-making in leadership requires clarity and a focus on long-term goals.
4. Continuous learning and self-reflection are essential for growth as a leader.
5. Applying ABA principles to leadership can significantly enhance team dynamics and outcomes.

Time Stamps:

00:00 Leadership in ABA: A Broader Perspective

06:23 BCBA as a Leader: Real-Life Examples

8:12 Effective Leadership Strategies

17:24 Engaging with Parents as a Leader

23:38 Defining Leadership in ABA

24:12 Empathy and Parental Involvement

24:59 The Role of a Leader in ABA

27:08 The Jam Study and Decision Making

28:48 Applying the Jam Study to Leadership

33:43 Key Leadership Qualities

38:26 Continuous Learning and Accountability

Links for the Guest:

You can follow her on Instagram

Access your CEU Certificate by filling out THIS form.

Join our fast-growing BCBA Community by signing up HERE.

Are you a BCBA looking for a job? Apply HERE.

--

Are you underestimating the role of parents in ABA therapy? In this compelling episode of My BCBA Life, we’re joined by Kassandra Alvarez, a seasoned BCBA turned parent coach, who sheds light on how parent involvement can transform the ABA experience. From strengthening communication with families to encouraging parental self-care, this episode offers a fresh, compassionate perspective on working with families in the autism community.

Discussion Points:

• Kassandra’s transition from BCBA to parent coach
• The long-term impact of parent involvement in ABA
• Building rapport and tailoring communication with families
• Helping parents understand behavior functions using relatable examples
• Mindset coaching and self-care for parents
• An introduction to Kassandra’s book Guiding Light: Navigating Autism with Empathy and Expertise

Kassandra shares her journey from traditional ABA practice to becoming a dedicated parent coach, emphasizing that ABA is most effective when parents are informed, empowered, and supported. She walks through strategies to build trust with families, communicate more effectively, and deliver parent training that resonates. A strong advocate for holistic care, Kassandra discusses the importance of shifting parents' mindsets and fostering self-compassion. Her new book, Guiding Light, offers a supportive roadmap for parents, blending ABA knowledge with emotional resilience.

About The Guest:

Kassandra Alvarez is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst with over six years of experience and a passion for empowering parents. She recently shifted her focus to parent coaching, where she integrates ABA strategies with personal development tools. Kassandra is also the author of Guiding Light: Navigating Autism with Empathy and Expertise, a resource that combines clinical insight with heartfelt guidance for families.

Key Takeaways:

• Parent involvement is essential to meaningful and lasting progress in ABA therapy.
• Trust-building and communication are foundational for effective parent-professional relationships.
• Teaching behavior functions through everyday examples improves parent understanding.
• Encouraging self-care and mindset work helps parents sustain their energy and optimism.
• Resources like Guiding Light can bridge the gap between ABA and emotional support for families.

Time Stamps:

00:47 – Transition to Parent Coaching

03:21 – Parent Involvement

06:38 – Building Relationships with Parents

14:48 – Mindset Shifts for Parents

23:57 – Effective Parent Training Techniques

27:49 – Teaching Parents the Functions of Behavior

29:12 – Increasing Awareness Through Examples

31:15 – Engaging Parents in the Process

32:59 – Building Relationships with Families

34:49 – Adapting Communication Styles

37:48 – Encouraging Parental...