Counselor's Connection

Be kind to your mindHello Doss Families!
Welcome Back for the 2022-2023 School Year

The Role of Doss’ School Counselors

Doss Elementary Counselors assist all students in developing their academic, career, personal, and social abilities through classroom lessons, small groups and individual counseling.


About the Counselors

Katherine Mydra, PK-2nd Grade Counselor

Hi Doss Owls! My name is Katherine Mydra and I am the new school counselor. I get to work with our PreK-2nd grade students. While I am originally from Minnesota (Skol Vikings), I moved to Austin this August from Chicago where I was a school counselor for the past 3 years.

When I’m not at Doss, I love to travel, read and run. Looking forward to getting to know and supporting all of this amazing Doss community.

Direct Line: (512) 414-2365 ex: 57073

Katherine.Mydra@austinisd.org


Natalie Perez, 3-5th Grade Counselor

My name is Natalie Perez, and I am one of the school counselors at Doss. Prior to my time at Doss, I was a school counselor in Marble Falls and taught 2nd & 3rd grades at Hill Elementary. I grew up in Austin and attended Davis, Murchison, and Anderson.

In my free time I love spending time with my husband and 2-year-old son or having fun on Lake Travis. I am thrilled to be at Doss and working within the Anderson Vertical Team I love so dearly. I look forward to connecting with all Doss Owls again this year and supporting each student to reach their full potential.

Direct line: (512) 414-2365 ex:51250

Natalie.Perez@austinisd.org

Winners of the Counselors Reinforcing Excellence
for Students in Texas Award (CREST)

Learn about CREST

School Counseling Offered at Doss

Classroom Lessons:

Mrs. Perez and Ms. Mydra meet with all classes bi-monthly. Lesson topics may include: acceptance, careers, conflict resolution, communication, empathy, friendship & kindness, goal setting, decision making, personal safety and self-awareness.

Small Groups:

Ms. Mydra and Mrs. Perez run small groups to support student needs. Topics vary by grade and year but may include; social skills, self-esteem, friendship, self-regulation, grief and family dynamics.

Individual Counseling:

Mrs. Perez and Ms. Mydra assist students with individual needs. Topics may include: transitions to middle school, goal setting, classroom support and resources for families.

Outside Referrals

We maintain a list of resources that may be helpful in the event of a concern beyond the scope of school counseling services.