Hi, I’m Jessica Soto!
Though I was born and raised in New York, I have called Jacksonville home since 2007. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor Supervisor and a Registered Play Therapist Supervisor™ who specializes in helping children and families heal from trauma. I earned my undergraduate degree in Psychology from Liberty University, followed by a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and a Graduate Certificate in Play Therapy from Stetson University.
As a certified TraumaPlay® Therapist through the TraumaPlay Institute and an EMDR-trained therapist, I create a compassionate and structured environment for trauma recovery. I have extensive experience supporting children who have experienced chronic maltreatment, traumatic incidents, attachment disturbances, and other interpersonal traumas. I believe every child and family has the capacity to heal through play, connection, and supportive relationships.
I play an active role in the Play Therapy community. In addition to my clinical work, I have taught within Jacksonville University’s Play Therapy Certificate Program and provided professional trainings on trauma-informed care, attachment, and discipline strategies for community organizations and mental health agencies.
My clinical experience includes providing play therapy for children in the child welfare system and within Duval County Public Schools. I am also a certified Circle of Security Parenting™ Facilitator and am passionate about helping parents strengthen their relationships with their children through empathy, understanding, and consistency.
Outside of the playroom, I enjoy spending time outdoors, reading historical fiction, and creating meaningful memories with my two children.