Aaron Betsinger

Aaron Betsinger is a Research Assistant Professor at the University of Maryland School of Social Work (SSW) and affiliated with the Institute for Innovation and Implementation. His work focuses on improving outcomes for youth and families in juvenile justice, child welfare, and behavioral health systems. He has collaborated with Maryland’s Department of Juvenile Services since 2015, overseeing evaluations of detention policies, evidence-based programs, and system reforms.

• Education: PhD and MA in Criminology and Criminal Justice (University of Maryland College Park)
• Education: BS in Criminal Justice (Old Dominion University)

Research Expertise spans program implementation, administrative data analysis, and system-level quality improvements. His work emphasizes evidence-based practices in delinquency prevention and child welfare.

Current Projects include evaluating SAMHSA-funded initiatives like Healthy Transitions and the Children's Mental Health Initiative in Prince George's County. He co-chairs the Governor's Commission on Juvenile Justice Reform's Youth Rehabilitation Services workgroup.