A Creative and Safe Approach to Supporting Your Child’s Growth

Play Therapy

Helping Children Express, Heal, and Grow Through Play

For children, play is more than just fun — it’s a natural way to explore feelings, communicate experiences, and develop problem-solving skills. Sometimes, kids don’t have the words to express complex emotions like sadness, anger or fear. That’s where play therapy can help.

At JLE Psychological Services, Dr. Jessica Elliott offers play therapy in New Jersey for children facing emotional, behavioral, or social challenges. Through child-centered play therapy sessions, children can work through difficulties, build confidence, and develop resiliency skills to cope with life’s challenges.

What is Play Therapy?

Play therapy is an evidence-based therapeutic approach that uses toys, games, art, and creative activities to help children express themselves. Instead of relying solely on verbal communication, Dr. Elliott uses a child’s natural language — play — to create a safe, supportive environment for growth and healing.

This approach can help with:

  • Anxiety or excessive worry

  • Depression or sadness

  • Behavioral issues at home or school

  • Adjusting to major life changes (such as divorce, relocation, grief)

  • Trauma recovery (abuse, neglect, accidents)

  • Social skills and peer relationships

  • Low self-esteem or confidence

How Play Therapy Works

In each session, Dr. Elliott observes and engages with the child through various play-based activities. This allows her to:

  1. Understand the child’s inner world and emotional needs

  2. Provide a safe space for them to express feelings

  3. Introduce coping strategies and problem-solving skills in a developmentally appropriate way

Techniques may include:

  • Role-playing and storytelling

  • Drawing and art-based activities

  • Building and imaginative play

  • Board games and cooperative play exercises

  • Sand tray therapy for emotional processing

The Role of Parents in Play Therapy

Parents are essential partners in the process. Dr. Elliott often begins with a parent consultation to discuss concerns, goals, and family history. Depending on the child’s needs, she may also:

  • Provide regular progress updates

  • Offer parent coaching to support changes at home

  • Suggest strategies for reinforcing new skills outside therapy

By involving caregivers, children are more likely to maintain progress and feel supported in their everyday environment.

Why Choose Dr. Jessica Elliott for Play Therapy

Dr. Elliott is a licensed psychologist with specialized training in child development, trauma-informed care, and play therapy techniques. She creates a warm, welcoming space where children feel safe to be themselves, while also maintaining clear therapeutic goals.

Her approach is:

  • Child-centered – honoring the child’s pace and comfort level

  • Strengths-based – focusing on abilities as well as challenges

  • Collaborative – involving parents and teachers when appropriate

  • Evidence-based – using proven techniques tailored to each child

Take the First Step Toward Your Child’s Well-Being

If your child is struggling with emotions, behavior, or big life changes, play therapy can provide a safe and effective way to help them heal and thrive. Book a 15-20 free consultation today to learn more about play therapy in New Jersey and how Dr. Elliott can support your child’s growth.

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FAQ

  • During the initial intake appointment, we will discuss the factors that led you to seeking therapy as well as some relevant background information. I believe that therapy is a collaborative experience and it is important for both parties to discuss the goals to be worked on together.

  • At this time, I am only offering virtual or telehealth sessions.

  • I am an Out-of-Network provider. Upon request, I can provide with you session invoices and billing statements with all information required for insurance reimbursement if your insurance provides Out-Of-Network Coverage.

  • $200.00

  • I offer a limited amount of sliding scale opportunities. If needed, please inquire about any possible availabilities.

  • Please provide at least 24 hours notice of a session cancellation, otherwise the full session amount will be charged.

  • Play therapy is most effective for children between ages 3 and 12, but some techniques can also be adapted for teens.

  • Yes. Play therapy is an excellent tool for helping children process traumatic experiences in a safe and developmentally appropriate way.

  • While most sessions are child-focused, Dr. Elliott includes parent consultations to share progress and strategies for support at home