Erin M. Espinosa, PhD, is the Director of Research at Evident Change, where she leads national research and evaluation efforts focused on improving outcomes for children, youth and families involved in child welfare, juvenile justice and social service systems.
Erin began her career working directly with youth and families as a case manager in a juvenile justice institution for girls and young women, a juvenile probation officer and a therapeutic foster parent. She later served in state-level leadership roles in juvenile justice, specializing in programming for dual-system youth and young people with behavioral health needs.
After years of practice and public service, Erin pursued her doctorate to strengthen her ability to connect research, policy and practice. She has since led and contributed to federally funded studies focused on foster care, family preservation, early intervention, juvenile justice and cross-system collaboration.
A published scholar and frequent national presenter, Erin brings expertise in implementation science, trauma-informed systems and youth and family engagement.
