Behaviour Analysis in Russia: Natalia Polikarpova on Compassionate ABA, PFA/SBT, and Building a Profession

What does behaviour analysis look like in Russia today?

In this episode of Behaviour Speak, Ben welcomes Natalia Polikarpova, behaviour analyst, educator, supervisor, and leader in the Russian-speaking ABA community.

Natalia shares her journey from engineering to behaviour analysis, discusses the early development of ABA in Russia, and reflects on the growth of professional training, supervision, and certification opportunities across Russian-speaking countries. She also explores the impact of the BACB's withdrawal from Russia, the emergence of local credentialing systems, and the importance of developing professional organizations that reflect local cultural and educational realities.

The conversation also examines autism services across Russia and neighbouring countries, including parent involvement, educational options, government-supported initiatives, and ongoing efforts to improve diagnostic pathways for families. Natalia highlights the growing influence of Practical Functional Assessment (PFA) and Skills-Based Treatment (SBT), as well as the broader movement toward compassionate, trauma-informed care.

Most importantly, Natalia challenges listeners to remember that every learner is first and foremost a child, deserving of dignity, flexibility, and compassionate support.

In this episode, we discuss:

How ABA first emerged in Russia

Early misconceptions about ABA

The growth of Russian-language BCBA training

Certification changes following BACB withdrawal

Development of local professional standards and ethics

PFA and SBT implementation across Russia