Meet Our Team

Theresa O’Keefe, LCSW, MSW, MS
she/her/hers
Secure Base Owner, Clinical Therapist

My “therapy mission statement” is to aid you on your journey of emotional healing, courageous vulnerability, and attachment security. 

  • I work from a perspective that prioritizes the importance of emotions, self-esteem, and relationships.

  • At different times I will be your cheerleader, emotional witness, process consultant, reality-checker, co-regulator, and emotional translator.

  • Clients have described me as “warm, collaborative, easy to talk to, and insightful”. I strive to facilitate therapy that is as helpful and comfortable as possible. I almost always have a dog with me during sessions.

  • My office is a casual environment! Many of my clients enjoy drawing, sculpting, cross-stitching, building Legos or going for walks in sessions. Please let me know if you’d like to utilize any of these (or other) options in treatment!

Lex Peel, SWLC
they/she
Clinical Therapist

I am a Social Work License Candidate with a background in trauma, neurodivergence, and working within the LGBTQ+ community. I believe that everyone has within themselves the key to healing.  I believe in working with my clients to discover that key through self-compassion, emotional expression as well as learning and developing successful coping skills to deal with life stressors.   

I am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and utilize techniques based in DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy), ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy), and trauma-informed play therapy techniques. I have assisted clients with various clinical needs, such as relational stress, attachment issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, severe mental illness, substance use, and psychological distress related to chronic medical illness. I provide individual treatment for clients ages 11-75 years old.

Calliana Bagnell, PCLC
she/her
Clinical Counselor

As a Candidacy Licensed Mental Health Counselor, I am passionate about walking alongside individuals as they navigate life’s challenges and transitions. I bring years of experience working with young adults, teens, and adults in various stages of life, whether transitioning into college, preparing for reentry, or facing personal challenges.

My approach is rooted in authenticity, compassion, and a deep respect for your unique journey. I view counseling as a collaborative space where you are seen, heard, and supported as you move toward growth and healing. I specialize in helping clients navigate anxiety, trauma, depression, relationship concerns, body image, eating disorders, performance anxiety, and identity exploration.

I take an integrative person-centered approach, and often draw from Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to help you identify your strengths and build resilience. I am here to listen without judgment, offer honest reflection, and support you in uncovering what healing and success looks like for you.I believe in meeting you where you are, holding space with warmth and respect, and helping you navigate not only personal challenges but also the broader systemic barriers that may impact your well-being. My counseling style is supportive yet gently challenging, always with the goal of helping you move forward with clarity and confidence.

Katie Edens, PCLC
she/her
Clinical Counselor

Welcome! I am honored to invite you to therapy. 

  • I view therapy as a collaborative partnership, meaning that you are always the expert of your
    own experience. I strive to provide a safe, accepting space where you can show up exactly as you are. 

  • Everyone’s needs are unique - I am happy to integrate art, walking, fidgets, or other creative accommodations to your sessions.

  • approach counseling through the lens of attachment, considering how past experiences shape
    current patterns. I also use tools from ACT, DBT, and Internal Family Systems. My role is to support and guide you as we navigate your
    path forward together.

Bia O’Keefe
Emotional Support Dog

Meet Bia (pronounced Bee-uh), Theresa’s therapeutic dog. She serves as an emotional animal in Theresa’s sessions and the photo is a perfect representation of her!

Bia is the cuddliest therapeutic dog you'll ever meet! She’s mastered the art of making herself at home wherever she goes—usually right on your lap. Bia is the kind of dog who believes there’s no such thing as too much attention, and she’s always ready to soak up all the scratches and love you can give. Bia's gentle nature and warm presence make her the perfect companion for anyone in need of comfort or a little extra TLC. Her favorite pastime? Settling in for a cozy snuggle session, ensuring she’s as comfy as possible, and soaking up every moment of affection. Whether you're looking for a calming presence or just a furry friend who can’t get enough of you, Bia is always there to brighten your day with her endless love and unwavering attention.

Maple O’Keefe
Emotional Support Dog

Meet Maple, Theresa’s other therapeutic dog. She often joins Bia in Theresa’s sessions, though she has also been known to make her way around the office! Maple is a young, gentle soul who may be a little shy at first—but once she warms up, she’s all wiggles, tail wags, and joy. Whether she’s quietly hanging out during your session or trying to convince you to play fetch with her favorite toy, Maple brings warmth, comfort, and just the right amount of goofy charm to our space.

Cass Miller
Billing Professional

Owner of Zootown Billing Services, Cass is our go-to for all things billing and insurance. Contact her answer questions about your bill, set up a payment plan, or work out other billing and insurance details.

zootownbillingservices@gmail.com
406-830-0451

Tyler O’Keefe
He/Him
Administrative Manager

Tyler joins us from the engineering world to be a part-time Administrative Manager. He’s here to aid you with questions related to technology!

tyler@a-secure-base.com
406-304-1192

Kenzie Carter
she/her & they/them
Administrative Assistant

Kenzie has called the Missoula Valley home for the last ten years. After graduating with a degree in Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies from the University of Montana in 2020, Kenzie’s passion for equity and justice called them to a career first in community organizing, then case management for young adults. She is now in pursuit of a doctorate in Physical Therapy and hopes she never has to see you for that reason. Kenzie loves to dance, sing, play music, be in the river, and read science fiction.