Dr. Tammy Keller
Dr. Tammy Keller, MFT, is a dedicated mental health professional, educator, and community leader with more than 20 years of experience serving the Rosebud Sioux Tribe and surrounding communities. She earned her Doctorate in Marriage and Family Therapy in 2024 and has built her career around culturally responsive, trauma-informed care. Tammy’s work spans school counseling, community-based mental health, and vocational rehabilitation, where she has developed innovative approaches to support Native youth, families, and individuals facing barriers to wellness and employment. She often incorporates Animal-Assisted Therapy into her practice, drawing on the 50+ animals she cares for to teach trust, empathy, and resilience.
Tammy’s journey reflects both resilience and passion. A proud Native American woman, she has pursued education and leadership opportunities that honor her culture and strengthen her community. Her career includes serving as a Head Start Mental Health Consultant, an elementary school counselor, and a leader within the nationally recognized Sicangu Vocational Rehabilitation Program. She has also contributed to higher education as an adjunct professor at Sinte Gleska University, mentoring future counselors and professionals. Beyond her professional work, she is a mother of three whose life is grounded in family, culture, and service. Tammy remains steadfast in her commitment to uplifting her people, advancing wellness, and creating opportunities for the next generation of changemakers.
• Doctorate
• Double Masters
• Bachelors of Science
• National University
• Northcentral University
• Sinte Gleska University- M.A.
• South Dakota State University- B.S.
• AAMFT
• Tribal Writers
• CANAR
• The National Society of Leadership and Success
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to resilience, faith, and the strong foundation of my Lakota values. I was raised to understand that service to others is both a responsibility and a gift. Every challenge I’ve faced—whether personal, academic, or professional—has strengthened my determination to keep moving forward, not just for myself but for my children and my community. The support of mentors, colleagues, and my family has also been invaluable along this journey.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best advice I’ve ever received was: “Lead with humility, but never be afraid to use your voice.” In counseling, education, and tribal programs, I’ve learned that change only happens when we are willing to speak the truth—even when it’s uncomfortable—and balance it with empathy and respect.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would tell young women to believe in their voice, their culture, and their worth. This field can be demanding, and at times you may face resistance or doubt from others. Stay grounded in who you are and don’t be afraid to bring your unique perspective forward. Your lived experiences, cultural knowledge, and compassion are powerful tools that no textbook can teach.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in mental health and vocational rehabilitation is accessibility—especially in rural and Native communities where resources are limited and stigma still exists. Yet this also creates opportunity: to innovate, to bring culturally relevant care forward, and to use traditional practices alongside modern therapies. By blending the two, we can create stronger systems that truly serve our people.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Respect, integrity, and compassion are at the heart of everything I do. In my personal life, being a mother and a daughter of this community keeps me grounded. In my professional life, those same values guide how I treat my clients, my colleagues, and the programs I’m entrusted with. Above all, I believe in Wolakota—living in peace, balance, and respect with others—which is the guiding principle in both my work and my life.
Locations
Lakota Legends Animal Assisted Therapy
Mission, SD 57555