After working as a primary school teacher and nursery manager for 25 years, Zoe Milne realised that she had a desire to help children beyond learning in the classroom. This has led her to qualify as a Play Therapist and Creative Arts Practitioner, and is now offering her services to families across the Bath and Frome region.
“The children I see may have anxiety, be a school refuser, have a long term medical need or be a sibling of a child or parent who has a medical need,” explained Zoe. “Some of the children I work with have ADHD or ASD, while others may be waiting for a medical or clinical assessment. Others have been abused, bullied or are living in a household with domestic violence.
“Play Therapy is child-led. The child decides what they want to play with and the therapist reflects and guides them through their ideas. As the sessions evolve, I draw upon my background of Theatre in Education, Forest School, Nurture Groups, Music and Special Educational Needs Teaching.
“My sessions are centred around the interests and needs of the child. I am passionate about empowering children to find their own voice and work through their challenges playfully. The greatest accomplishment in my job is seeing a happy child who has the confidence to think for themselves. This ripple effect helps school to be positive and a calmer home life.”
Zoe explains that she often works closely with headteachers and other agencies such as social services to help children stay safe and access other support if needed. This might include a young carers charity or sourcing other activities that parents and school can access to help motivate and support the child.
Feedback from parents whose children have worked with Zoe include the parent of a Year 6 boy who said that the play therapy helped him to feel valued and listened to, while developing broader perspectives about things happening in his life.
“Zoe’s legacy is a whole host of strategies to help him negotiate and interpret the world – so important as we look forwards secondary school,” the parent said. “She worked closely and sensitively with us both throughout and I really value everything she’s done.”
A parent of a Year 2 pupil said, “My son’s play therapy sessions were the highlight of his week. Through Zoe’s gentle approach, he was able to work through his emotions whilst having fun at the same time. I noticed a real change in how he was able to express himself more calmly and he had fewer meltdowns.”
As well as working with schools across the region, Zoe sees children privately at her garden unit in Bear Flat. While some parents fund these sessions, others are funded by charities and adoption bodies. She also has qualifications in British Sign Language and Somerset Total Communication, and is trained to use Picture Exchange Communication. (P.E.C.S.)
For more details, Zoe can be contacted at email hidden; JavaScript is required or visit www.zoemilneplaytherapist.com