Episode 257: A Compassionate Approach to Exposure Therapy with Danielle Cohen

from Behaviour Speak with Ben Reiman · host Ben Reiman

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: Linnehan, 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/

What this episode covers

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 LearningIBAO: 1.0 ABA TopicsQABA: 1.0 GeneralCBA/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: Linnehan, 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 seriesEpisode 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/

NOW PLAYING

Episode 257: A Compassionate Approach to Exposure Therapy with Danielle Cohen

0:00 1:01:50

1×

No transcript for this episode yet

We transcribe on demand. Request one and we'll notify you when it's ready — usually under 10 minutes.

Share this episode

Similar Episodes

I'm ok

Mar 26, 2026 ·1m

REMIX: Why we over-shop and compulsively acquire, and how to stop, with Dr Jan Eppingstall

Jan 9, 2026 ·61m

REMIX: OCD and hoarding disorder with Jenna Overbaugh

Jan 2, 2026 ·47m

REMIX: Therapy and hoarding disorder - what are the options? With Dr Jan Eppingstall

Dec 26, 2025 ·78m

REMIX: ADHD and hoarding disorder with Professor Sharon Morein

Dec 21, 2025 ·46m

#207 13 actionable pieces of mental health advice from six former podcast guests

Dec 12, 2025 ·53m

Similar Podcasts

MG Show MG Show The MG Show, hosted by Jeffrey Pedersen and Shannon Townsend, is a leading alternative media platform dedicated to uncovering the truth behind today’s most pressing political issues. Launched in 2019, the show has grown exponentially, offering unfiltered insights, comprehensive research, and real-time analysis. With a commitment to independent journalism and factual integrity, the MG Show empowers its audience with knowledge and encourages active participation in the political discourse. French Your Way Jessica: Native French teacher founder of French Your Way Boost your French listening skills and test your comprehension with this one of a kind series of podcasts. Get the chance to listen to a real conversation between native speakers talking at normal speed AND customise your learning experience through carefully designed sets of questions (2 levels of difficulty) available for download at www.frenchvoicespodcast.com. All interviews also come with the transcript. French teacher Jessica interviews native speakers of French from around the world who share a bit of their life and passion. Where else would you meet in one same place a French yoga teacher based in Melbourne, a soap manufacturer from Provence, or a couple cycling around the world? That Hoarder: Overcome Compulsive Hoarding That Hoarder Hoarding disorder is stigmatised and people who hoard feel vast amounts of shame. This podcast began life as an audio diary, an anonymous outlet for somebody with this weird condition. That Hoarder speaks about her experiences living with compulsive hoarding, she interviews therapists, academics, researchers, children of hoarders, professional organisers and influencers, and she shares insight and tips for others with the problem. Listened to by people who hoard as well as those who love them and those who work with them, Overcome Compulsive Hoarding with That Hoarder aims to shatter the stigma, share the truth and speak openly and honestly to improve lives. The Small Business Startup School – Business Notes | Financial Literacy | Retail Psychology – For Professionals & Entrepreneurs The Small Business Startup School Inc. Starting or buying a small business? While personal circumstances may vary, business patterns remain timeless. On The Small Business Startup School, we explore strategies, insights, and practical solutions to help entrepreneurs confidently navigate their journey.Hosted by Ola Williams—a retail entrepreneur, fintech founder, and financial coach with over two decades of experience—this podcast marries financial awareness and retail psychology with optimism to deliver actionable takeaways.Join us to learn, grow, and connect as we uncover the keys to business success.Let’s continue to learn together and be encouraged to keep on connecting!

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is this episode of Behaviour Speak with Ben Reiman?

This episode is 1 hour and 1 minute long.

When was this Behaviour Speak with Ben Reiman episode published?

This episode was published on March 20, 2026.

What is this episode about?

Is there a transcript available for this episode?

Yes, a full transcript is available for this episode. You can read the complete transcript on the episode page.

Can I download this Behaviour Speak with Ben Reiman episode?

Yes, you can download this episode by clicking the download button on the episode player, or subscribe to the podcast in your preferred podcast app for automatic downloads.

URL copied to clipboard!