Terms of Service

Acceptance of Terms

By using this website ("Site"), you agree to these Terms of Service. If you do not agree, please do not use the Site.

These terms apply to all users of our website and clients of our therapeutic services.

No Medical or Crisis Advice

The content on this Site is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical, mental health, or other professional advice.

Use of Website

You agree to:

• Use the Site for lawful purposes
• Not attempt to interfere with the Site's operation or security
• Not provide false or misleading information
• Respect the privacy and rights of other users

Client Relationship

Use of the Site or sending a message via the contact form does not create a therapist–client relationship. A relationship is established only after a signed informed consent and intake process.

Until a formal therapeutic relationship is established, any communication through this website should not be considered confidential or protected by therapist-client privilege.

Professional Services

Therapeutic Relationship

Seneca Negrete, LMFT & LPCC, provides professional mental health services including individual, couples, and family therapy. The therapeutic relationship is a professional one, and personal relationships outside of therapy are not appropriate.

Scope of Practice

Our services are provided within the scope of practice as defined by California state licensing boards and professional ethical guidelines. We provide therapy for mental health concerns and do not provide medical diagnoses or treatment.

Professional Boundaries

To maintain the integrity of the therapeutic relationship, we maintain professional boundaries. This includes limitations on personal relationships, business relationships, and social media connections.

Appointment Policies

Scheduling

Appointments can be scheduled through our website, by phone, or by email. We will confirm all appointments within 24 hours of your request.

Cancellation Policy

We require 24 hours advance notice for cancellations or rescheduling. Sessions cancelled with less than 24 hours notice will be charged the full session fee, except in cases of genuine emergencies.

No-Show Policy

Clients who do not attend their scheduled appointment without advance notice will be charged the full session fee.

Late Arrivals

Sessions will end at the scheduled time regardless of late arrival. Clients arriving more than 15 minutes late may need to reschedule their appointment.

Fees and Payment

Session Fees

Session fees vary by service and are discussed during your consultation.

Payment Terms

Payment is due at the time of service unless other arrangements have been made in advance. We accept cash, check, and credit cards.

Insurance

We are an out-of-network provider and do not bill insurance directly. We can provide superbills for you to submit to your insurance company for potential reimbursement.

Sliding Scale

A limited number of sliding scale spots are available for clients experiencing financial hardship. Please discuss your situation with us during your initial consultation.

Confidentiality

Your privacy is protected by professional ethics and state law. Information shared in therapy sessions is confidential, with the following exceptions:

• If you are at imminent risk of harming yourself or others
• Suspected abuse of children, elderly, or dependent adults
• If ordered by a court of law
• If you provide written consent to release information

Communication

Between Sessions

For non-urgent matters, you may contact us via email or phone. We typically respond within 24-48 hours during business days.

Emergency Situations

If you are experiencing a mental health emergency, please call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room. For non-emergency crisis support, contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988.

Technology and Privacy

While we use secure communication methods, please be aware that email and text messages may not be completely secure. Avoid sending sensitive or confidential information through these channels.

Intellectual Property

All content on this Site, including text, images, and design, is the property of Meraki Counseling Collective unless otherwise noted. You may not copy, distribute, or modify any content without written permission.

Third-Party Links

Links to external sites are provided for convenience. We do not endorse or control those sites and are not responsible for their content or practices.

Telehealth Services

We offer telehealth services via secure video conferencing platforms. By participating in telehealth sessions, you acknowledge and agree to the following:

• You will participate from a private, secure location
• You are responsible for ensuring a stable internet connection
• Technical difficulties may occasionally interrupt sessions
• Emergency protocols may be different for telehealth sessions

Termination of Services

Either party may terminate the therapeutic relationship at any time. We may terminate services if:

• You do not comply with treatment recommendations
• You violate these terms of service
• A conflict of interest arises
• We determine that we cannot provide effective treatment

In case of termination, we will provide appropriate referrals and transfer records as requested.

Limitation of Liability

To the fullest extent permitted by law, Meraki Counseling Collective is not liable for any damages arising from your use of the Site or reliance on its content.

While we strive to provide effective therapeutic services, we cannot guarantee specific outcomes. Therapy involves risks and benefits, and results may vary.

Changes to These Terms

We may modify these Terms at any time. Updates will be posted on this page with a new effective date.

We will notify you of any significant changes and obtain your consent where required by law.

Governing Law

These Terms are governed by the laws of the State of California, without regard to its conflict-of-law rules.

Any disputes arising from these terms or our services will be resolved through mediation or arbitration in accordance with California state law.

Contact Information

If you have questions about these Terms of Service, please contact us: