Clients often use 'training' and 'behavior modification' interchangeably. But are they the same?

The short answer is that behavior modification differs from routine dog training. I liken it to the difference between going to finishing school (manners) vs. seeing a psychologist (modification).

Typically, dog training involves teaching dogs how to do something (sit, come, lay down, etc). Behavior modification specifically addresses existing behavior patterns, by evaluating the environmental contingencies that are maintaining the behavior and then changing contingencies in such a way as to extinguish the undesirable behavior and, in some cases, establish a more desirable behavior pattern.

Frequently behavior modification protocols involve changing the existing emotional response (fear, anxiety, etc) underpinning the behavior. This approach requires a sophisticated understanding of learning theory (operant and classical conditioning, effects of reinforcement schedules on patterns of responding, motivation theory, etc.). In order to be a Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist (CAAB), for example, you are required to hold a PhD in animal behavior and have demonstrated practical experience or else be a board certified veterinary behaviorist.

I would love if there was a more general understanding of the difference between behavior modification & training. Currently, there are no regulations on what people call themselves, so the confusion continues.