Meet Our Team
Theresa O’Keefe, LCSW, MSW, MS
she/her/hers
Secure Base Owner, Clinical Therapist
Helping you on your journey toward emotional healing and secure relationships is my mission.
I'll be a warm and collaborative guide as you explore your emotions, self-esteem, and relationships. I strive to make therapy as helpful and comfortable as possible. There is often a dog with me during sessions, or we can go for a walk, draw, or put together legos; all great options for treatment.
Lex Peel, SWLC
they/she
Clinical Therapist
As a Social Work License Candidate, I help clients ages 11-75 unlock their own healing potential. I specialize in working with trauma, neurodivergence, and working within the LGBTQ+ community.
I am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and utilize techniques from (Dialectical Behavior Therapy), ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy), and trauma-informed play therapy to address a variety of needs, including anxiety, depression, relational stress, substance use, and attachment issues.
Calliana Bagnell, PCLC
she/her
Clinical Counselor
As a Candidacy Licensed Mental Health Counselor with years of experience, I am passionate about walking alongside young adults, teens, and adults as they navigate life's challenges and transitions. My approach is rooted in compassion, authenticity, and a deep respect for your journey—providing a collaborative space for you to feel seen and heard.
I specialize in helping clients navigate anxiety, trauma, depression, relationship concerns, body image, eating disorders, performance anxiety, and identity exploration. Using an integrative person-centered approach and drawing from Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), I'll support you in building resilience and moving forward with clarity and confidence.
Katie Edens, PCLC
she/her
Clinical Counselor
I believe in a collaboration; you are always the expert of your own experience. Because everyone has unique needs, my goal is to provide a safe and accepting space for you to show up as you are. I'm happy to integrate creative approaches like art, walking, or fidgets into sessions.
My approach is rooted in attachment theory, exploring how past experiences shape present patterns. I also use tools from ACT, DBT, and Internal Family Systems 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 if you have 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.
