Hi, I'm Kani!
"I'm not for everyone. But for those who are ready, I tend to be exactly what they need."
I was born in the Congo DRC and raised in the United States, which means I've spent most of my life living at the intersection of worlds that don't always speak the same language. That experience gave me something I bring into every session: the ability to meet people exactly where they are, without needing them to explain themselves first.
I studied psychology at Creighton University and earned my Master of Social Work from the University of Nebraska Omaha. I'm also currently deepening my practice through yoga teacher training, which has strengthened my appreciation for somatic and mind-body work.
My practice is as diverse as my own story. I've been in this field for over 15 years and licensed for more than 10. I work with individuals, couples, families, and groups across a wide range of backgrounds, identities, and life experiences. That includes women navigating empowerment and major life transitions, adolescents and teens working through anxiety and the pressures of growing up, and adults of all ageswho are ready to do something different. I hold an affirming, open space for people of all sexual identities, relationship structures, and lived experiences, including poly dynamics, blended families, and everything in between.
Education & Credentials
Fifteen years in the clinical field, but on a foundation that started long before that.
Independent Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Nebraska, Iowa, Georgia, and Illinois
Master of Social Work
University of Nebraska Omaha
BA in Psychology
Creighton University
EMDR Trained Practicioner
Trauma-focused Certification
Certified Human Design Analyst
Integrated where clinically appropriate
Ordained Minister
Ceremony & Life Transition Work
"Who I am shapes the work I do, in every room I show up in"
KANI RUBANGO
Our Session Together
I am truly honored to be the vessel that allows people to unpack and be vulnerable.
The APPROACH
Is warm, non-traditional, and non-judgemental. I don't believe in a one-size-fits all model of healing, and I don't show up with a rigid agenda. Some sessions are deep and heavy. Some are surprisingly funny.
The GOAL
Is to help you become more fully you, to stand as your most authentic best self. I use my light to help bring yours out, not because you'll shine like me, but because you'll shine in your own way.
What to Expect
Choosing to work on yourself is one of the hardest things a person can do, and opening up to a stranger takes real courage. I don't take lightly the trust my clients place in me. It is something I hold with care every single session.
01. I show up as I am, real, direct, and fully present. And I simply welcome that same thing in return.
02. You get to be exactly who you are, no performance required.
03. While diagnoses are an important part of the clinical process, I don't define people by them. We are not our diagnoses.
04. Therapy with me can feel like relief. Like finally being able to say the thing out loud. Like leaving a little lighter than you came in.
05. You to leave feeling empowered, like something has shifted, like you have more tools, more self-trust, and carry a little less weight on your shoulders.
The ultimate goal is for you to not need me anymore. And I mean that!
Ready to Start?
Not sure what service is right for you?
Testimonials
"I have been seeing Kani for over three years and I cannot express how much I have progressed and grown. I have seen various therapists throughout my life but no one has made me feel more comfortable and seen."
"She is very supportive and listens, and really helps you understand why you're feeling the way you do."
“When she says she is client-centered, she is not lying. Kani uses fun, varied approaches to help you get to the root of your issues.”
Published Research
Brown, J., Rubango, K.N., & deGuzman, M.R.T. (2013). Alloparental Care. In K. Kieth, B. Beins, L. Chung, P. Giordano, R. Gurung, R. Miller, B. Schalock, and J. Tanaka-Matsumi (Eds.), The Encyclopedia of Cross-Cultural Psychology. New York: Springer.