Aaron H. Rodwin

Aaron H. Rodwin, PhD, LCSW, is an assistant professor at the Graduate School of Social Work. His research focuses on understanding and improving mental health for marginalized young adults diagnosed with serious mental illnesses (SMI), particularly schizophrenia-spectrum conditions. His work centers on two interrelated areas: investigating the social and contextual factors that contribute to mental health inequities and shape recovery, and developing psychosocial interventions to improve service engagement and outcomes. He has a particular interest in music-based interventions as a youth-oriented, culturally responsive, and trauma-informed approach to advance these goals.

Rodwin's research interests grow out of his clinical experience in community mental health, where he worked within systems that often struggled to engage marginalized young adults with SMI and provide culturally relevant, trauma-informed services. This sparked his interest in understanding the factors that produce disparities and shape mental health and recovery. It also motivated him to improve the quality of care by partnering with individuals with lived experience to co-create novel interventions that align with youth culture and preferences.

Rodwin has published his research findings in outlets including the Journal of Adolescent Health, Journal of Affective Disorders, Stigma and Health, and Child and Adolescent Social Work Journal. Prior to joining the faculty at GSSW, Rodwin completed his doctoral dissertation on how music engagement may impact recovery among marginalized young adults diagnosed with SMI. His research was supported by a Ruth L. Kirschstein National Research Service Award from the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) and the 2025 Society for Social Work and Research (SSWR) Doctoral Fellows Award. Rodwin brings over seven years of clinical practice as a therapist and clinical supervisor, having worked with youth and adults across community-based outpatient and hospital settings.