In this episode, we speak with Eyal Cohen, BCBA and World Behavior Analysis Day Ambassador for Israel, about his path into behavior analysis and his work expanding accessible, values-driven ABA across Israel. Eyal shares how his bi-cultural background informs his culturally responsive approach and discusses the structure of ABA services in Israel, including training programs, public and private systems, and ongoing challenges related to professional recognition. The conversation explores compassionate, ethical practice; behavioral parent training rooted in empowerment and transparency; and the importance of humility when working across cultures. Eyal also highlights his work with adults with autism, emphasizing quality of life, inclusion, and meaningful community participation, including a structured community bowling group designed to foster belonging and engagement. We close with a reflection on World Behavior Analysis Day as a celebration of the science, its humane values, and the global connections that strengthen our field. Listeners will gain insight into: Eyal’s path into ABA: He entered through work with adults with disabilities, discovered ABA training in Tel Aviv, and built a career as a clinician and educator in Israel. Cultural responsiveness as a core value: His American–Israeli–Jewish identity shapes how he approaches families, schools, and communities with humility and respect. ABA in Israel today: Services are widespread across schools, kindergartens, and adult centers, with multiple training programs—yet the field still lacks formal licensure/official recognition. Training, supervision, and accessibility: Eyal emphasizes teaching ABA transparently (no “black box”), making practices understandable for parents and teachers, and building capacity through structured training. Adults, quality of life, and inclusion: He highlights adulthood as an underserved area and focuses on meaningful engagement, environment design, community participation, and vocational opportunities. WBAD meaning: For Eyal, World Behavior Analysis Day is about celebration and connection, building global collaboration and remembering the field’s humane roots. Resources Mentioned: Ethics for Behavior Analysts (Bailey & Burch) Behavior LIVE: The Impact of Cultural Factors on Behavior Analysis Practice in a Multi-Cultural Society
