Dr. Sherrionda Crawford: Leading Change in Counseling Education at Troy University

Dr. Sherrionda Crawford: Leading Change in Counseling Education at Troy University

Dr. Sherrionda Crawford, a dedicated professional with over 25 years in the counseling field, has made a lasting impact at Troy University. Since joining the university in 2014, Crawford has held various roles, from Assistant Professor to Department Chair, shaping the future of counseling education while supporting the mental health and well-being of students both at TROY and in the wider community.

Crawford’s journey into counseling began in community mental health, where she gained valuable hands-on experience. Later, she transitioned to the school system, becoming a full-time school counselor. This transition laid the foundation for her move to Troy University in 2014. Since then, Crawford’s career at TROY has evolved significantly.

She began at TROY as an Assistant Professor in the Counseling Department and then took on the role of School Counseling Coordinator for the Alabama campuses. As her career progressed, Crawford assumed administrative positions, such as Assistant Chair, Associate Chair, and, for the past four and a half years, Department Chair of Counseling, Rehabilitation, and Interpreter Training (CRIT).

In her role as Department Chair, she oversees the CRIT programs across TROY’s campuses, managing accreditation, faculty, student support, and budgeting.

One of Crawford’s most meaningful initiatives at TROY is her work with the Garrett Lee Smith Suicide Prevention Grant. This federal grant supports suicide prevention efforts and raises awareness about mental health and wellness within the university community. Crawford is proud of the work done through this initiative, as it not only helps TROY students but also strengthens relationships with local communities, increasing access to vital mental health services and support.

‘I’m passionate about suicide prevention because mental health is critical at every stage of life,’ she shared. ‘We need to raise awareness and make resources available to help students cope with academic and personal pressures, which can often lead to serious mental health concerns.’

Another important project Crawford has been deeply involved in is the Trojan School-Based Mental Health Counselors Grant, which she helped write. This initiative is designed to support underserved school districts by providing scholarships for graduate students pursuing careers in school counseling. Through this grant, Troy University trains school counselors, equipping them with the skills needed to better serve students and families in communities with limited resources.

This initiative holds particular significance for Crawford, as it directly addresses mental health concerns from an early age. By training school counselors in underserved areas, the program helps ensure that mental health support is available to students before they reach higher education. In collaboration with local education agencies, her efforts are helping to bridge the gap in mental health care for students, especially in rural communities with limited access to such resources.

Throughout her career, Crawford has observed evolving trends in student mental health, particularly following the COVID-19 pandemic. She highlights a rise in anxiety, depression, and psychosis among both K-12 and college students.

‘These issues have always existed, but they’ve become more pronounced in recent years,’ she explained. ‘Students face significant academic, social, and transitional pressures. It’s crucial that we provide them with the mental health resources they need to cope.’

TROY offers several resources for students, including the Student Counseling Services and TimelyCare, a virtual mental health program that provides on-demand support, counseling sessions, and psychiatric services at no cost.

As Crawford continues her work at TROY, she remains deeply committed to the success of her students and the development of counseling programs that meet the evolving needs of today’s society. Whether it’s through her work with suicide prevention, her leadership in the Trojan School-Based Health Grant, or her support of innovative programs, she is making a lasting impact on the counseling field.

‘I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished here at TROY,’ she said. ‘We’re not just training students to be counselors; we’re equipping them with the skills and knowledge they need to support their communities and make a real difference in the lives of others.’

Crawford’s contributions to Troy University and the counseling field are truly invaluable. Through her leadership, passion, and commitment to mental health advocacy, she continues to shape the future of counseling education while providing vital resources to students and communities. Her work at TROY is a testament to her dedication to student success and her unwavering belief in the power of counseling to foster positive change.