When Lucas Gallo entered high school, he faced challenges that went far beyond the classroom. Struggling with severe anxiety and panic attacks, he found it difficult to function within a traditional school setting, ultimately missing an entire semester of his freshman year—a critical time for building academic foundations.
Determined to find a better path forward, his family explored multiple homeschooling options, trying six different programs before discovering University Prep Early College Academy at Visions during his sophomore year. “After a rocky few years of bouncing from school to school, Visions offered the structure, support, and flexibility that I needed to overcome my school-based anxiety,” Lucas shared.
At Visions, Lucas began to rebuild—not just his academic standing, but his confidence as a learner. With personalized support and a flexible environment, he re-engaged in his coursework, set meaningful goals, and steadily worked to close the gaps created during his earlier struggles. What once felt like an insurmountable setback became a story of resilience, as Lucas rediscovered his ability to succeed and thrive.
“Visions offered a supportive, more individualized, and flexible environment where I found my footing again,” he said. “My time there allowed me to get back on track and live up to my potential.”
That renewed sense of direction extended beyond high school. Not only did Lucas complete his diploma, but he also began preparing for the future he once thought might be out of reach—taking community college courses and looking toward the future. “After finding his footing at Visions, he not only completed his high school education but rebuilt his confidence and set his sights on higher education,” shared Lucas’ mother, Carrie.
He credits the encouragement of Visions staff, including his teacher Julie Szukalski, for helping him take that next step. “The faculty at Visions pushed me gently toward my goal of attending college while understanding my limitations,” he said.
Looking back, Lucas recalls a psychology course that sparked his interest in mental health—an interest that would later shape his career path. And while he values all that he gained during his time at Visions, one moment stands above the rest: walking across the stage at his 2017 graduation, surrounded by the family, friends, and educators who supported him every step of the way.
“Visions offered me a pathway to attend college.”
That pathway began to take shape during Lucas’s senior year, when he enrolled in dual enrollment courses at Sacramento City College (SCC). Returning to an in-person classroom setting marked a major turning point—one where he not only rebuilt his academic confidence, but also began to rediscover his voice as a learner.
It was at SCC that his passion for psychology and philosophy took root, fueled by what he describes as “a desire to understand the nuances of the human experience.” His own experiences, along with those of people close to him, deepened that curiosity and gave his studies a powerful sense of purpose.
“When I realized that I could use my education to help others improve their lives, I was pretty sold on my path,” Lucas said.
After completing his time at SCC, Lucas transferred to the University of California, Davis, where he earned his Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Philosophy. He continued building on that foundation by pursuing a Master of Science in Counseling at the Kaiser Permanente School of Allied Health Sciences, where he graduated with academic honors in June 2025. His dedication to the field was recognized with the program’s highest distinction—the Award for Clinical Excellence.
For Lucas and his family, the journey represents far more than academic success. Reflecting on his growth, his mother, Carrie, shared, “Lucas is a powerful example of what’s possible for Visions students who are struggling but refuse to give up. He knows firsthand what it feels like to be overwhelmed by anxiety, to fall behind, and to wonder if school will ever feel manageable again. His journey shows that setbacks don’t define the future—what matters is the decision to keep going, even when it’s hard.”
Today, Lucas is continuing that mission through a competitive fellowship program, working as an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist at Kaiser Permanente. In his role, he supports individuals and families as they navigate their own mental health journeys—bringing empathy, insight, and lived experience to his work.
“The opportunity to witness patient growth, develop deep and meaningful connections, and work with peers toward a common goal of promoting wellness maintains my passion in this field,” he shared. “This work provides me with purpose and keeps me motivated to learn and further hone my skills.”
Long before he officially entered the helping profession, Lucas was already finding ways to give back. What began as a personal goal—to one day support others—quickly became a consistent thread woven throughout his journey.
While attending community college, Lucas volunteered at a local senior center, offering one-on-one technology support. Through this work, he not only helped bridge the digital divide, but also built meaningful relationships—supporting both the practical needs and emotional well-being of the individuals he served. During that same time, he assisted students with disabilities, helping with note-taking and test preparation to ensure they had the tools needed to succeed.
At UC Davis, Lucas continued to advocate for others, serving on the Equitable Access Committee to expand student access to textbooks and essential learning resources. Today, his commitment to service remains just as strong. He regularly participates in high school career fairs and provides mentorship to a current student, helping guide the next generation as they navigate their own paths.
“These experiences shaped him into a compassionate, driven professional dedicated to service, leadership, and equity,” his mother, Carrie, shared.
Outside of his professional life, Lucas finds joy in the simple moments—spending time with his fiancée, their four cats, and his family. He enjoys cooking and baking, often with music playing in the background, and can just as easily be found in his backyard tending to plants or studying insects. A self-proclaimed history enthusiast, he’s especially fascinated by the stories behind food and music.
When reflecting on his journey, Lucas offers thoughtful advice to current Visions students:
“Find what interests you and what provides you with purpose. Taking classes, finding a mentor, engaging in activities you find meaningful, and clarifying your values and goals can help guide you. As you grow, look for ways to challenge yourself—but don’t forget to give yourself grace along the way. And for my stereotypical therapist advice… try to develop a self-care routine!”
