Dr. Tylon Crook Highlights the Value of the In-Person Residency for Students Pursuing an MA in School Counseling at SHU
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Sacred Heart University’s online master’s in school counseling program offers a comprehensive academic foundation paired with a uniquely transformative learning experience: the in-person residency. For Clinical Assistant Professor and Program Director Dr. Tylon (Ty) Crook, the residency is much more than a requirement, it’s where the program’s mission truly comes to life.
“The in-person component, or what we call the in-person residency of the school counseling program here at Sacred Heart, has multiple purposes,” Dr. Crook explained. “This experience provides a hands-on experience for learning the core foundational counseling skills that all counselors, especially school counselors, will use throughout their entire careers.”
Future school counselors complete two on-campus residencies at SHU. Each residency takes place on Sacred Heart’s West campus in Fairfield, CT over the course of one week. Students complete their first residency in their first semester, and their second residency before starting their year-long clinical practice in practicum and internship courses.
Throughout the residency, students participate in live demonstrations of counseling sessions, peer practice activities, and structured team-building exercises. These experiences help them move beyond theoretical understanding into the interpersonal and technical skills central to effective counseling.
“The residency experience is not only an opportunity for learning, but it is an opportunity for you to really lean into your calling as a helping practitioner.”
–Tylon Crook, PhD, NCC – Program Director and Clinical Assistant Professor
The residency also creates a supportive environment where students can receive immediate, meaningful feedback that strengthens their confidence and professional identity.
A defining hallmark of the in-person residency is its intentional focus on community. Dr. Crook places great emphasis on creating a sense of belonging from the very first day.
“One of the first things I do as an instructor is work to build a sense of family,” he said. “I work to foster a very small group feeling in and between group members and myself.” Through introductions, group discussions, and collaborative exercises, students form relationships that often evolve into learning pods and long-term support networks.
Trust-building is also woven into the fabric of the experience. “The residency experience helps us to build a sense of community in that it allows for an opportunity to build rapport,” Dr. Crook shared. “That rapport is needed to establish trust and helps to establish those bonds needed to facilitate growth.”
One of the ways he cultivates this trust is through what he calls “breaking bread moments.” By sharing meals and snacks, students and instructors step outside the formal classroom context and connect on a human level.
“I create space for us to break bread together because that is where real and authentic conversations take place outside of the formal classroom,” Dr. Crook said. These moments often lead to meaningful discussions that deepen students’ understanding of themselves and their peers.
Ultimately, SHU’s in-person residency is designed not just for learning, but for connection, self-discovery, and professional growth. As Dr. Crook says, “The residency experience is not only an opportunity for learning, but it is an opportunity for you to really lean into your calling as a helping practitioner.”
Empower Student Success with SHU’s Online School Counseling Master’s Program
The master’s in school counseling online program offers a flexible pathway for creating meaningful change in the lives of students. Rooted in compassionate practice and practical skill-building, the program prepares you to guide young learners through academic challenges, social-emotional growth, and college and career planning.
Your engaging courses will be led by expert faculty who bring real counseling expertise to every lesson. The curriculum is designed for career readiness and built to strengthen your counseling skills while preparing you for licensure or certification. With small class sizes, you’ll receive individualized attention and ample opportunities to connect with instructors and classmates.
A defining feature of the program is its emphasis on hands-on experience. You’ll complete the in-person residency, as well as a practicum and internship that immerse you in real school environments. These field experiences are designed to set you up for long-term success as a school counselor.
Learn more about the online Master of Arts in School Counseling
What Can I Do With a Master’s in School Counseling?
A master’s in school counseling opens doors to impactful roles that support student success across academic, social-emotional, and career development. Graduates are prepared to work in a variety of educational settings and guide students as they navigate challenges and plan for the future.
Potential career pathways include:
- School Counselor (Elementary, Middle, or High School)
- College Counselor
- Career Counselor
- Student Support Specialist
- Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Specialist
With this degree, you’ll be equipped to foster supportive learning environments, advocate for students’ well-being, and shape school communities in meaningful ways. Whether working directly with students or supporting broader student-services initiatives, a master’s in school counseling helps you advance into a rewarding career.
Discover Another Online Counseling Program at SHU
If you’re looking to expand your expertise, Sacred Heart University offers an additional online option to support your growth. The MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling prepares you for roles serving diverse mental health needs. This program is flexible and designed to help you advance your counseling career on your schedule.