Meet Seneca Negrete, LMFT & LPCC
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist dedicated to helping individuals, couples, and families navigate life's challenges with compassion, expertise, and authentic connection.
Licensed in
California & Nationwide
Years of Experience
10+
Specialization
Trauma, Crisis, & Relationships
Approach
Integrative & Relational
My Journey to Therapy
I believe that healing happens in relationship — not just with a therapist, but with ourselves, our loved ones, and our communities. This belief stems from my own journey through life's complexities and my witness to the profound transformations that occur when we feel truly seen and understood.
My path to becoming a therapist wasn't linear. Like many of my clients, I've navigated my own experiences with trauma, relationship challenges, and the search for meaning. These experiences don't just inform my practice — they fuel my deep commitment to creating a space where others can explore their own stories with courage and compassion.
The name "Meraki" comes from a Greek word meaning to do something with soul, creativity, and love — to put something of yourself into your work. This philosophy guides every aspect of my practice. When you step into my office, you're not just another appointment. You're a whole person with a unique story, deserving of respect, understanding, and genuine care.
"Therapy isn't about fixing what's broken — it's about discovering the strength that's always been there and learning how to access it when you need it most."
— Seneca Negrete
Education & Training
Academic Background
- •
Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology
Pepperdine University
- •
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
California State University, Long Beach
- •
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
LMFT #121107 | LPCC #4045
Specialized Training
- •EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing)
- •Somatic Experiencing for Trauma Resolution
- •Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) for Couples
- •Internal Family Systems (IFS)
- •Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR)
My Therapeutic Approach
Trauma-Informed
Understanding how past experiences shape present behaviors, with a focus on safety, trust, and empowerment in the healing process.
Relationally Focused
Exploring how relationships shape our sense of self and using the therapeutic relationship as a vehicle for growth, healing, and connection.
Culturally Sensitive
Honoring diverse backgrounds and identities, recognizing how culture, race, and social context influence our experiences and healing.
What to Expect in Our Work Together
A Collaborative Partnership
You are the expert on your life. I bring clinical expertise and compassionate guidance. Together, we create a path forward that honors your unique needs and goals.
Evidence-Based Methods
I integrate proven therapeutic approaches while remaining flexible and responsive to what works best for you.
A Safe, Non-Judgmental Space
Your therapy room is a sanctuary where all parts of you are welcome — the messy, the beautiful, and everything in between.
Practical Tools & Deep Insight
We'll work on immediate coping strategies while also exploring deeper patterns to create lasting change.
Areas of Focus
While I work with a wide range of concerns, I have particular expertise and passion for supporting clients in these areas:
Trauma & PTSD
Anxiety & Depression
Relationship Issues
Life Transitions
Grief & Loss
Identity & Self-Worth
Family Dynamics
Cultural Identity
Professional Affiliations
California Association of
Marriage and Family Therapists
American Association for
Marriage and Family Therapy
California Association for
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors
Outside the Therapy Room
I believe therapists are whole people too, and sharing a bit about who I am outside of work helps create authentic connection. When I'm not in the office, you might find me:
Hiking the trails around southern California and finding peace in nature
Getting lost in a good book, binging a new show, or exploring local coffee shops
Going to my favorite exercise class, enjoying a relaxing spa day, or going to a concert
Ready to Begin Your Journey?
Taking the first step toward therapy can feel daunting. I'm here to make that step as comfortable as possible. Let's start with a conversation.