From an early age, Austin Middle School counselor Lindsey Price’s mother always stressed the importance of going to college. When the time came, it wasn’t a matter of if Price was going, but what she’d major in.
“At the time, there were three options for my career path – education, veterinary sciences or nursing,” she says. “I was fine with any of those options, but I decided to pursue nursing at first.”
Price attended Midwestern State University as a nursing major. While she loved nursing, she constantly felt the pull towards education. Eventually, she made what she considers one of the best decisions of her life and changed her major to education. After graduating college, she hit the ground running one month later and began teaching at the elementary level. During her six years in the classroom, Price taught kindergarten, third and fourth grades. Although she loved teaching, an inspiring conversation with her aunts sparked her curiosity and a desire to make a deeper impact in students’ lives.
“I have two aunts who are retired counselors, and their jobs always sounded so interesting to me. I was so inspired, I went back to school to become a counselor,” adds Price.
This decision led her to Irving ISD, where she landed her first counseling job at Stipes Elementary School. Price worked under the mentorship of fellow counselor Judy Tippett, someone she credits for laying the foundation of her career. After two years at Stipes, she transitioned to Crockett Middle School, where she worked alongside counselors Susan Hogan and Maria Vargas.
“I learned so much from those phenomenal women. They each took me under their wing – like true counselors,” she recalls.
Now entering her second year at Austin Middle School, Price’s experience has come full circle – from mentee to mentor. She works alongside a new counselor, Teresa Paz, to whom she passes on the wisdom she’s gained from her own mentors in counseling.
“I have truly been fortunate to work with great people in Irving ISD,” she adds.
Price’s journey as a counselor is marked by her adaptability. She recognizes that the role of a counselor is constantly changing, especially in an age where technology and social media influence students more than ever. What worked a few years ago may not resonate with students today, and she is dedicated to staying relatable.
“It’s important to keep up with the trends,” she says. “Kids are evolving, and as counselors, we have to evolve with them. That means staying informed about the issues students face, from mental health struggles to the pressures of social media. Students often feel more comfortable talking to someone outside of their immediate circle of friends and family, so I strive to be that trusted adult they can turn to.”
Beyond emotional support, Price is also passionate about helping students see what lies ahead after high school. In Irving ISD, career readiness starts as early as elementary school, and she’s thrilled to show students the opportunities they might not have realized existed. Whether it’s college, trade schools or innovative career pathways, she helps open their eyes to what they can achieve. One of the keys to Price’s success as a counselor is her willingness to be herself. Early in her career, she admits she often tried to imitate other counselors, but over time, she learned the value of authenticity.
“I used to copy everything my colleagues did, but eventually I realized that I have my own way of doing things, and that’s OK,” she says. “Being myself allows the students to feel comfortable with me, and that’s how I build trust.”
This personal approach makes a world of difference. When students sense that their counselor is genuine, they feel safe to open up and share their challenges. Price believes that authenticity is what allows her to thrive, both as a counselor and a mentor.
In an age where mental health issues are on the rise, school counselors are more vital than ever. They provide a safe, supportive environment where students can talk about their struggles and receive guidance. Price says she’s proud to be part of a profession that gives students the tools to succeed. From helping them manage stress to providing valuable information on career and college readiness, counselors play a crucial role in shaping the futures of young people.
“Lindsey Price is such an amazing counselor with a lot of passion for her work,” says Irving ISD’s Director of Guidance, Counseling & College Readiness Julie Soberanis. “It’s clear she really enjoys helping others – whether it’s students or fellow counselors. The variety of activities she’s involved with this year also shows how creative and dedicated she is to making a positive impact.”
Looking back on her career, Price is proud of the growth she’s experienced. She’s grown more confident in her abilities and has built meaningful relationships with students and colleagues alike. One of her proudest moments is stepping into a leadership role and guiding a new counselor, showing her the ropes and watching her grow.
“I’m proud of my growth as a counselor,” she reflects. “I wasn’t always this confident, but now I know I’m exactly where I’m supposed to be.”
