With a career defined by compassion, expertise and innovation, Cassandra L. Hovet, MSW, LCSW, has emerged as a trusted leader in the field of social services. As the owner of Amber Waves Therapy, PLLC in Thompson, North Dakota, she directs clinical operations and ensures the delivery of quality therapeutic services. She oversees the practice’s strategic direction with a focus on expanding access to effective mental health care. Her leadership at Amber Waves Therapy demonstrates her ability to manage the organizational aspects of a practice while maintaining direct engagement with clients, allowing her to balance administrative oversight with meaningful therapeutic relationships.
Ms. Hovet’s academic background has provided the foundation for her success. She earned a Master of Social Work from the University of North Dakota after completing a Bachelor of Science in social work from the same institution. These studies equipped her with the theoretical grounding and practical experience necessary to thrive in complex clinical environments and to assume leadership responsibilities. Her educational achievements remain a cornerstone of her career, enabling her to contribute meaningfully to both individual lives and broader community initiatives.
As a mental health therapist with BetterHelp, Ms. Hovet provides remote therapy to clients from diverse backgrounds, demonstrating adaptability in meeting the evolving needs of modern health care. Earlier in her career, she worked as an advanced clinical specialist at Northeast Human Service Center in Grand Forks. In this capacity, she offered specialized interventions for individuals navigating complex behavioral health challenges and contributed to the development of programs designed to address those needs. Prior to that role, she completed a clinical traineeship at Northwestern Mental Health Center, gaining valuable experience in working with clients across age groups under the supervision of experienced professionals.
Ms. Hovet’s professional development also included working as an autism interventionist at Anne Carlsen Center, where she designed individualized treatment plans and implemented evidence-based approaches to support children with autism spectrum disorder. She began her career as an employment specialist at Community Options Inc., where she supported individuals with disabilities in obtaining meaningful employment and integrating into the workforce. These early positions helped her cultivate a deep understanding of client advocacy and practical service delivery.
Beyond her formal roles, Ms. Hovet has contributed to her community through advocacy and creative initiatives. Among her most memorable projects was organizing a performance-based fundraiser titled Hope, Love, Sing, which she co-hosted with her brother and local artists. The event raised funds for the Community Violence Intervention Center and highlighted her commitment to using her talents to support vulnerable populations.
Ms. Hovet’s professional credentials reflect her dedication to growth and excellence. She is licensed as a clinical social worker by the North Dakota Board of Social Work Examiners and as an independent clinical social worker by the Minnesota Board of Social Work. She is also pursuing certification as a sex and couples therapist, expanding her expertise to better serve clients with diverse relational and therapeutic needs.
Ms. Hovet’s contributions extend into civic engagement. She is an active sponsor and donor for Rally for Recovery, supporting individuals on their path to overcoming substance use disorders. She also participates as a member of the Chamber of Commerce Grand Forks/East Grand Forks, fostering professional connections and contributing to the local business community. Her impact was further recognized when she received the inaugural Outstanding Alumni Award from the Department of Social Work at the University of North Dakota, an honor that underscored her influence as both a practitioner and a leader.
Outside of her professional responsibilities, Ms. Hovet enjoys traveling, reading and spending time with her daughter. Looking toward the future, she aspires to expand Amber Waves Therapy by recruiting additional therapists, purchasing a dedicated building and continuing to develop innovative services that address the diverse needs of her community.