Laura Gallo

Professor conducting research in the vital areas of trauma, suicide prevention, and school counseling, Dr. Laura Gallo is an esteemed Assistant Professor of School Counseling in the College of Education at the University of Iowa. With a robust academic background, she earned her PhD in Counselor Education and an MA in School Counseling from the University of Iowa, complemented by a BA in Elementary Education from Central College. Her academic journey has been marked by a deep commitment to understanding and addressing the complex challenges faced by students and educators alike. Before her current role at the University of Iowa, Dr. Gallo served as an Assistant Professor and School Counseling Program Coordinator at Boise State University. Her tenure there was characterized by a dedication to developing comprehensive counseling programs that equip future school counselors with the necessary skills to support students effectively. Her practical experience as a high school counselor and elementary teacher has provided her with invaluable insights into the educational system and the diverse needs of students. Dr. Gallo's research is particularly focused on suicide prevention within K-12 schools, a critical area that requires urgent attention and innovative solutions. She is actively involved in supervising and training school counselors in suicide assessment, ensuring that they are well-prepared to identify and support at-risk students. Her work in this field is driven by a passion for creating safer and more supportive school environments. In addition to her work on suicide prevention, Dr. Gallo is deeply invested in research related to trauma. She explores effective strategies for working with children and adolescents who have experienced traumatic events, aiming to develop interventions that promote healing and resilience. Her research contributes significantly to the field of school counseling, offering evidence-based practices that can be implemented in educational settings. Dr. Gallo's contributions to the field extend beyond research, as she is actively involved in mentoring the next generation of school counselors. Her commitment to education and mental health advocacy is reflected in her teaching, where she emphasizes the importance of empathy, understanding, and proactive intervention in school counseling practices. Her work continues to inspire and influence both her students and colleagues, making a lasting impact on the field of education.