She’Maine Oden, LMSW
She’Maine Oden, LMSW, is a Licensed Master of Social Work and Behavioral Health Therapist at West Central Human Service Center in Bismarck, North Dakota. Dedicated to providing compassionate, trauma-informed care, she specializes in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), crisis intervention, and case management. She’Maine is known for her resourceful and solutions-oriented approach, empowering individuals and families to overcome life’s challenges while promoting mental and emotional well-being. Her work reflects a strong commitment to client-centered care and the creation of supportive, nurturing environments where healing and growth can take place.
Before her current role, She’Maine served at the Dakota Center for Independent Living, where she advanced from Transition Coordinator to Independent Living Specialist Supervisor. There, she coordinated client intakes, managed caseloads, and collaborated with community organizations to improve access to essential services and resources. Her leadership extended beyond direct care—she played a vital role in team development, program management, and community outreach. She also gained valuable clinical experience as an intern at The Village Family Service Center, where she further strengthened her skills in behavioral health interventions and family support.
She’Maine earned her Master of Social Work degree from the University of Denver’s Graduate School of Social Work, specializing in mental health counseling, after completing her Bachelor of Social Work at Minot State University. She holds licensure through the Association of Social Work Boards and serves as a Board Member for the North Dakota Chapter of the National Association of Social Workers. Passionate about advocacy and community engagement, She’Maine continues to use her platform to champion the rights of vulnerable populations and inspire others in the field of social work.
• Licensed Master Social Worker
• University of Denver: Graduate School of Social Work - Master of Social Work - MSW, Mental Health Counseling/Counselor
• Minot State University - Bachelor of Social Work
• Southwest Regional Representative for North Dakota
• National Association of Social Workers
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my commitment to being the change I want to see in the world. I strive to lead with purpose, compassion, and integrity in every interaction. My greatest professional achievement is the positive impact I’ve made on my clients—helping them heal, grow, and move toward healthier, more fulfilling lives.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received was, “They’re not going to know you messed up—you can always fix it later.” It reminded me to stay confident, flexible, and focused on solutions rather than perfection. My mentor, Mallory Anderson, played a huge role in shaping my professional growth. She was incredibly encouraging and shared a wealth of knowledge that continues to guide me in my career today.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this field is simple: keep going and stay committed. Building strong rapport and genuine relationships with your clients is often more impactful than relying solely on the skills you learned in school. Always approach your work with respect for those you serve, and make sure to prioritize your own self-care—sustaining yourself is essential to sustaining your ability to help others.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that guide both my work and personal life are respect, honesty, consistency, and trust. I believe these principles are essential for building meaningful relationships and fostering a supportive, ethical environment. Outside of work, I enjoy acrylic painting, reading, hiking, and spending quality time with friends and family, which help me stay balanced, inspired, and connected.