DEPARTMENT CONTACTS
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DEPARTMENT CONTACTS
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304-746-2918 • 713 Bigley Avenue
Charleston, WV 25302
Fax: 304-746-2919 • E-mail Us
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A Behavioral Health & Social Service Agency Serving West Virginia Children & Families at Home Since 1999.
Meet The Team
Southern Region
Clinical Counselor
Shandy Keaton
Shandy Keaton has been with Home Base since September 2018. He has a graduate degree from Liberty University in Crisis & Trauma Counseling and an undergraduate degree in Mining Engineering from Bluefield State University. He works in the Kanawha Valley and Southern Region from the Parenting and Behavior Support Center in Beckley, WV.
Shandy decided to leave the mining industry in 2016 when it began facing political hardships. One incident that convinced him to make this decision was the Upper Big Branch Mine disaster in 2010. Shandy became the foreman for the crew that was starting to enter when an explosion tragically killed 29 of the 31 miners. During this time, he states, "We did more counseling for each other than running coal.”
Clinical Counselor
Travis Gibson
Travis Gibson is a West Virginia native and graduate of Westside High School in Clear Fork, WV. After high school, Travis continued his academic journey and graduated with a Bachelor’s of Science in Criminal Justice from Glenville State College (now Glenville State University) in 2018. In 2021, Travis graduated from Northcentral University in Scottsdale, AZ with a Master's of Science in Forensic Psychology. Travis has provided counseling in the past that mainly focused on substance abuse, but is looking forward to building on his skills with Home Base.
Clinical Counselor
LaAmy'a Manley
LaAmya Manley has been with Home Base since November 2023. She is a wife, mother, sister, and fierce advocate for WV Children. Despite being a Michigan native, West Virginia is her home and where she has practiced social work for the last five years. LaAmya is a 2019 graduate from West Virginia State University with a BSW and a 2023 graduate from Concord University with an MSW. She also holds a WV State Social Work License (LSW). Before coming to Home Base, LaAmya supervised an emergency children’s shelter specializing in special needs care. LaAmya likes to get creative and is fueled by chaos and hard-earned breakthroughs. From young children and teenagers to adults, no one can scare her off as she has worked with them all.
Wraparound Facilitator
Katelyn Yost
Katy Yost received her Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Wildlife Biology with a concentration in Wildlife Rehabilitation from Lees-McRae College in Banner Elk, NC in 2019. Katy began working with the Children’s Home Society at the Southern West Virginia Exceptional Youth Emergency Shelter (SWV EYES) in 2021. Katy began her career as a Youth Care Worker at SWV EYES, and then as a Social Worker in 2022 at the shelter. In this position, Katy gained experience working with youth ages 4-17 and specialized in working with those with special needs. In May 2024, Katy began her current position at Home Base Inc. as a Wraparound Facilitator.
When she is not working, Katy loves to spend time outdoors with family and friends. Katy enjoys kayaking, fishing, hiking, painting and making crafts, doing projects at home, and helping others. Katy is passionate about our local wildlife and enjoys working with and helping children and young adults in the community.
Clinical Counselor
Joseph Blakenship
Joseph Blankenship has been a Clinical Counselor with Home Base since February 2023. He obtained his MSW from Concord University and has been in the social work field for 8 years. Joseph has a real passion for his profession and being part of the team here at Home Base Inc. His approach to therapy is hands-on work with individuals, families, and support staff to improve daily functioning and reduce barriers for his clients. Joseph has worked with Special Olympics, coached kids' sports, and has a vast history of engaging in voluntary outreach in the social work field.
OC/Supportive Counselor
Lori Blankenship
Lori Blankenship, a dedicated educator from Lester, West Virginia, devoted over 36 years to teaching within the Wyoming County Schools. Holding a Master's degree, Lori's passion for education and commitment to her students has left a lasting impact on the community. Her career has been marked by her unwavering dedication to fostering a love for learning and supporting the academic growth of countless students. Beyond her long tenure in the classroom, Lori has also been a part-time contributor to Home Base Inc., for the past six years, bringing her extensive knowledge and expertise to a different field.
Outside of her professional endeavors, Lori enjoys spending quality time with her family and embracing the great outdoors. She finds joy in camping and boating on the lake, activities that allow her to relax and connect with nature. Lori's greatest delight comes from her role as a grandmother, cherishing every moment spent with her two grandchildren. Her love for her family and passion for teaching have been the cornerstones of her fulfilling and impactful life.
Clinical Counselor
Christel Moore
Christel Moore was born and raised in Beckley, WV. She attended Woodrow Wilson High School, and upon graduation, enrolled at Marshall University, majoring in Criminal Justice/Legal Studies. Christel moved to East Elmhurst, New York, and began her life journey in a place that opened her eyes to the needs of people who are so often misunderstood: children. This insight changed her projected career goals, and she decided to acquire her Master of Science Degree in Psychology from the University of Phoenix in 2009.
Christel's career in mental health began when she moved back to West Virginia. She started working with the drug court to counsel reemerging individuals to maintain sustainable lives. She worked as a trauma therapist for twelve years for child advocacy centers in Summers and Raleigh Counties and provided in-home therapy and advocacy to underserved locations in Raleigh, Fayette, Nicholas, Greenbrier, Wyoming, Logan, Boone, Kanawha, and Cabell Counties as a contracted therapist through community providers. Christel plans to broaden her scope of practice to reach more people, which has led her to pursue her education further. She counts it a blessing to be a part of the Home Base, Inc. Parenting & Behavior Support Center.
Wraparound Facilitator
Nikolas Mower
Born and raised outside of Pittsburgh, PA, with a passion for history, Nikolas' passion led him to graduate with a teaching degree from Shippensburg University in Pennsylvania. He got his teaching start working with juveniles from inner city Philadelphia, who were one step away from being incarcerated. On top of teaching Social Studies, he also helped teach usable skills. From there he taught in Northern Virginia before moving to Beckley to teach and coach. After earning his Masters Degree, he worked with alternative and home bound students in a virtual environment in Raleigh County. He has enjoyed helping students achieve their potential in the classroom and on the soccer field and tennis court. He believes that everyone has the potential to do great things with the skills they have, no matter the situation.
Wraparound Facilitator
Mackenzie Merrill
Mackenzie Merrill joined Home Base Inc. in June 2025. Originally from Utah, she moved to Bluefield to attend Bluefield State University and continue her collegiate soccer career. She graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice – Forensic Behavioral Analysis and a minor in Psychology.
Throughout college, Mackenzie discovered a strong passion for working with youth. Having grown up nannying and spending time in the classroom through student teaching, she knew she wanted a career that allowed her to connect more deeply with children. After graduation, she chose to remain in the area, having fallen in love with the community and the people of West Virginia. Mackenzie is excited to bring her dedication and experience to support children and families through her work at Home Base Inc. for years to come.
OC/Supportive Counselor
Brittany Saavedra
Brittany Saavedra is a bilingual teacher from Charleston, WV who moved to Beckley 5 years ago. Brittany works as a Spanish teacher for Raliegh county Schools. She earned her masters degree in education in 2018. Brittany Saavedra has a love and dedication to helping others, especially the youth in her community. She found her way to Home Base Inc. as an outsource coordinator, where she has worked part-time since July 2024.
When Brittany Saavedra is not working, she enjoys spending time with her family and connecting with friends. Her family and her dog Willow Jane are very important to her. Brittany loves hiking, trying new things, and traveling.
Clinical Counselor
Elizabeth Oglesby
Elizabeth Oglesby obtained her graduate degree in clinical psychology from Marshall University in 2005 and her bachelor of science degree in psychology in 2000. She has acquired over 15 years of experience in the mental health field and has served a variety of populations. She knew from an early age she wanted to pursue a degree in psychology. She has always had tremendous compassion for the mentally ill population. Elizabeth recently joined our team and looks forward to continuing to provide therapy services to those in need.
Wrap Facilitator
Robin Dolan
Robin Dolan has been an educator for more than a decade working with children with varying needs. She has brought this knowledge and experience to Home Base, where she continues working with children and families as a Wrap Facilitator, ensuring they receive the highest quality of care. Robin knows that advocating for and dedicating her time to our families and the community will create a brighter future.
Robin currently holds a Masters Degree in Education and is pursuing a Master’s in Psychology to allow her to transition into a therapist role with Home Base. She also possesses a wide array of trainings and professional development that she received while working in the education program at Walt Disney World and studying at the University of Johannesburg in South Africa. Robin is an active member of her church and is on the Christmas through Christ Toy Store for low-income families in the community. Robin also works with Operation Underdog rescue to help dogs and cats find their forever homes and inspire others to join the cause and help animals in need.
Clinical Counselor
Sara Blevins
Sara recently graduated with her master’s degree in education in counseling. She also has her bachelor’s and associate's degrees in psychology. While she has been in the counseling field for six years, she began her career with Home Base Inc. in February 2025. Sara entered the psychology field after receiving the news of her daughter’s autism diagnosis, which made her strive for knowledge about the psychology field. Before Home Base, Sara worked as an intake clinician, home clinician, and registered behavioral technician.
Paraprofessional
Mitchel Sheik
Mitchel Sheik has been in the behavioral support field for 2 years where he discovered his passion for helping people and kids, especially those with special needs. He has been a paraprofessional with Home Base Inc. since August 2024. He was born in Tulsa, Oklahoma and moved to WV in elementary school, where he later graduated from Shady Spring High School and Career and technology center (ACT). Mitchel has extensive world travel under his belt including Rome, Poland, Puerto Rico, Jamaica, and India. He stays abreast of current best practices by continuing his educational courses.
In his spare time Mitchel enjoys community and nature activities along with interactive technology and is reviewing his options for higher education.
Wrap Facilitator
Jordyn Duncan
Jordyn Duncan joined Home Base Inc. in February 2025. A graduate of Bluefield State University, Jordyn has a Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminal Justice -Forensic Behavioral Analysis. During her time at Bluefield State, Jordyn played Volleyball for the Big Blue.
A native of Illinois, Jordyn fell in love with West Virginia on her first college visit which led her to stay in the area post graduation. Having worked with youth at various campus and community events, she looks forward to serving children and families in West Virginia for many years to come.
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Outreach Coordinator
Anastasia Garner
Anastasia recently graduated from Concord University with a Bachelor of Science in Sociology. She has spent a few years in Florida and Arizona, however she was born and lived most of her life, here in Beckley. While she has no prior experience working in behavioral or parenting services, Anastasia is eager to learn new skills and excited to develop her knowledge in the social sciences. She was inspired to pursue aiding children and families because of the limited amount of familial support resources available around the time she was due to have her oldest child. She hopes to one day contribute to the expansion of these resources in local areas and support the families in her community that need it most.
Anastasia has two young children and four cats of varying ages and colors, all of which contribute to a full and happy household. She is an artistic person with many different creative outlets and an avid gamer, but she also enjoys walking along many of the hiking trails available in our local national parks.
Outreach Coordinator
Kassie Cochran
Kassie Cochran is a “small town girl” raised all her life in Webster County, West Virginia and still resides there. She realized at a very young age that her drive to help others was something she never wanted to steer away from. Kassie graduated from Webster County High School in 2022 then continued her education completing her bachelor’s degree in behavioral science (psychology) from Glenville State University in 2024. She has worked hard to further her education as quickly and efficiently as possible as she is very eager to help those that are unable to help themselves. She is now obtaining her Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Marshall University.
Here at Home Base Inc., she is dedicated and passionate when it comes to providing the best care to all she comes across. She has made it apparent that she sees those from all walks of life equally. In Kassie's spare time, you will find her making memories with those closest to her and cherishing all the little things this life has to offer.
Outreach Coordinator
Samantha Adkins
Sam is a Beckley, WV native joining Home Base Inc. as a paraprofessional. They recently graduated from Marshall University with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, and a minor in Japanese cultural studies. They plan on returning to school in the future to pursue their Doctorate of Clinical Psychology, with hopes to use this degree to aid their passion for outreach and advocacy.
In their free time, Sam enjoys watching movies and anime, reading, and playing with their dog, Oliver. They hope one day to travel and visit unique, exciting places all over the world, and to learn about as many cultures and traditions as possible.
Wrap Facilitator
Jamie Gunnoe
​Jamie Gunnoe joined Home Base Inc. in April 2025. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminal Justice from Marshall University. A native of West Virginia, Jamie is a prior service member of the Army National Guard and has dedicated the past ten years to working in various counties throughout the state. She firmly believes that every child is one caring adult away from realizing their full potential. Currently, Jamie is pursuing her Master of Social Work (MSW) degree from West Virginia University to enhance her expertise in case management and to better support the families she serves. In her leisure time, Jamie enjoys kayaking and hiking with her partner of four years.