Applied Behavior Analysis and Health Coaching: Bridging Two Sciences for Lasting Change

“Blending behavior analysis and coaching together is so valuable. The science tells you why change works. Coaching gives you the how to make it happen with each unique person.”  Sarah Burby

In this episode of CoachConnect, Dr. Diego Salinas and Sarah Burby dig into the powerful intersection of applied behavior analysis and health coaching, and why combining both sciences creates a more complete, ethical, and effective approach to lasting behavior change.

Sarah opens with her origin story. What started as a summer job at a camp for children with autism completely changed the trajectory of her life. As a result, she fell in love with the science of behavior analysis and never looked back. Eventually, she ended up earning her master’s degree, her BCBA certification, and later her NBHWC credential.

She unpacks why behavior analysts who transition into coaching without proper training often default to an expert-led model that is the opposite of coaching. She also explains why motivational interviewing, stages of change, and client-centered approaches are not taught in behavior analysis programs, and why that gap matters enormously for clients.

Together, Diego and Sarah explore the transdiagnostic potential of both sciences, why authenticity is the foundation of any effective coaching relationship, and how Sarah’s board-approved MindBody Behavior coaching certificate program is helping BCBAs make the transition confidently and competently. They also discuss the upcoming Behavior and Body Conference. A first-of-its-kind two-track event designed to bring both fields together.

Sarah Burby – BCBA, NBC-HWC, Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor & Founder of MindBody Behavior

Sarah Burby is a board-certified behavior analyst, National Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach, certified intuitive eating counselor, certified K–6 teacher in New Jersey, and certified barre instructor. Her work sits at the unique intersection of applied behavior analysis, health and wellness coaching, and acceptance and commitment therapy.

MindBody Behavior & Board-Approved Coaching Program

Sarah is the founder of MindBody Behavior, where she developed the first and only NBHWC-approved coaching certificate program specifically designed for behavior analysis professionals. Graduates of the program earn 32 BCBA education units and become eligible to sit for the NBHWC board exam. The program helps BCBAs transition into the coaching space confidently, competently, and within their ethical scope of practice.

The Behavior and Body Conference

Sarah is also the co-founder of the Behavior and Body Conference. It is a two-track continuing education event bringing together BCBAs and board-certified health coaches to explore the science of lasting behavior change across diverse populations. Speakers at the conference are dually certified professionals presenting across both tracks to foster cross-disciplinary learning and collaboration.

Her Mission

Sarah is passionate about liberating behavior analysts from the belief that they must stay in traditional autism and ABA roles. Her mission is to help professionals build careers doing work that truly lights them up. Without sacrificing ethical standards, competence, or scope of practice.

Dr. Diego Salinas is the host of CoachConnect.

Dr. Diego Salinas is a neuroscientist, physician, and health coach. He is passionate about helping coaches grow their impact in the health and wellness space.

As the co-founder of Vibly, he equips coaches with the tools and support to build thriving practices and create lasting change.

Blending medical expertise with coaching experience, Dr. Salinas specializes in behavior change, mental well-being, and the role of coaching in healthcare. On CoachConnect, he explores the strategies and successes of top coaches, sharing actionable insights. A strong advocate for coaching in healthcare, he speaks at industry events and works to make quality coaching more accessible.

CoachConnect with Dr. Diego Salinas is a podcast for coaches looking to grow their impact, refine their strategies, and navigate the evolving world of health and wellness coaching.

Dr. Diego Salinas has a question for coaches and coaching industry leaders: “What makes coaching a powerful force for change?” In this podcast series, he sits down with top coaching professionals to uncover their insights, strategies, and personal journeys.

Each episode of CoachConnect delivers real-world strategies, success stories, and expert perspectives on coaching, mental well-being, and business growth, helping coaches at all levels unlock their full potential.