Aaron Hendricks

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EXPERIENCE 

Aaron began his career at RTS in a service array role as an ISDE worker before quickly transitioning into his therapy internship. He has been with RTS for over two years, initially working with a wide range of demographics before discovering his passion for working with children. Aaron’s career journey has taken him through various roles and experiences. He began as a wildland firefighter in Montana before transitioning into forestry and environmental education. His time as a missionary in Peru with the Christian Life Movement deepened his passion for service. In recent years, he has served as the Business Manager for the Catholic Churches in Rice Lake, WI, as well as St. Joseph School, all while raising his family. 

EDUCATION

Aaron is a dedicated mental health counselor with a diverse educational and professional background. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Natural Resources from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, a Master of Science in Natural Resource Economics from the State University of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry, and a Graduate Certificate in Sustainable Business Management from Syracuse University. Most recently, he earned a master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Wisconsin-Stout and is scheduled to apply for full licensure in February 2025. Aaron is also working toward his Registered Play Therapist certification and his Certified Clinical Autism Specialist certification, both expected to be completed around the same time.

SPECIALTY AREAS

In his clinical practice, Aaron focuses on child and adolescent trauma, but his approach extends beyond just healing to supporting the whole person—mind, body, and soul. He has a deep passion for working with children and utilizes a variety of play therapy techniques in his sessions, including child-led play, coloring and drawing, sand trays, and imaginitve play. Aaron believes that through these methods, children can express themselves freely, experience acceptance, and build meaningful connections. His clinical style is rooted in empathy, dignity, and helping clients realize their full potential. 

WHY THE MENTAL HEALTH FIELD? 

Aaron’s passion for mental health counseling is deeply personal. Diagnosed with Bipolar I disorder over ten years ago, counseling played a pivotal role in his own healing journey. This experience, coupled with his desire to serve others, inspired his transition into the mental health field. He believes that each person he encounters carries the divine image, and he is driven to help them see that truth within themselves.

PERSONAL

Outside of work, Aaron enjoys skiing with his family and staying connected to nature.

AVAILABILITY 

Aaron provides most of his services in office in the RTS play therapy room, but is also able to provider services in-home, in schools, or within the community, Monday through Friday. 

Aaron's schedule is currently full, but he is accepting clients for his waitlist. The estimated wait time is 14-16 weeks.