KOALA TREE · MEET YOUR THERAPIST
About Lily
My name is Lily Wake. I am an Accredited Play Therapist and Creative Arts Therapist, registered with Play Therapy UK (PTUK), and a trainee Clinical Supervisor. I am completing my postgraduate supervisor training and expect to finish in early 2027. I am based in Queen Camel, Somerset, and have over 30 years’ experience working with children and families.
I am a PTUK Ambassador for the 2026–2027 membership year, contributing to the wider play therapy community and supporting the development of the profession.
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
A broad foundation in children’s lives
Over the past three decades, I have worked across a wide range of child-centred settings, including residential care, special educational needs provision, schools and therapeutic services. This breadth of experience has given me a deep, practical understanding of children’s emotional, developmental and relational needs.
I have particular experience supporting children with additional needs, including autism and PDA. I am passionate about making therapy accessible, respectful and responsive to each child.
OTHER SPECIALIST COMMUNICATION SKILLS
Inclusive, multisensory communication
I am a former Somerset Total Communication Coordinator. Total Communication is a multisensory approach that may bring together gesture, body language, speech, signing, objects, photographs, drawings, symbols, written words and technology to create supportive, inclusive communication environments. I draw on visual and other communication supports, including PECS, when they suit the child and their communication plan.
INTEGRATIVE APPROACH
Rooted in child-centred play therapy
At Koala Tree, I offer a bespoke, integrative therapeutic service grounded in my core training in child-centred play therapy. I draw on additional models and creative approaches, including therapeutic storytelling, to adapt the work to each child rather than asking a child to fit a fixed framework.
I work with children and families from a wide range of backgrounds, abilities and experiences, creating a space where each child can feel seen, accepted and supported. My practice is neurodiversity-affirming and trauma-informed, and I follow each child’s communication, strengths and pace.
PERSONAL JOURNEY
A parent’s perspective
Alongside my professional training, my experience as a parent has deeply shaped my work. Raising three sons has brought immense joy, as well as times when we were searching for support that was not readily available. These experiences strengthened my commitment to offering children and families the understanding, compassion and developmentally appropriate support that can make such a difference.
WHY KOALA TREE?
A name with a connection to home
You might be wondering about the name. I was born in Germany, raised in Australia, and have lived in the UK for many years. When I first created Koala Tree, Australia was experiencing devastating bushfires, and the impact on wildlife — particularly koalas — was deeply felt.
The name Koala Tree became a way of holding that connection to home, while also symbolising something important within my work. Koalas represent gentleness, safety and secure connection — all of which sit at the heart of therapeutic work with children.
QUALIFICATIONS AND PROFESSIONAL LEARNING
Training and credentials
- Master’s in Practice-Based Play Therapy — PTUK and Leeds Beckett University; Dean’s Award for Academic Excellence
- Postgraduate Diploma in Play Therapy — PTUK and Leeds Beckett University
- Postgraduate Certificate in Therapeutic Play — PTUK and Leeds Beckett University
- BA (Hons) Education, First Class — University of Worcester
- Foundation Degree in Teaching and Learning — University of Worcester
- Level 4 Specialist SEND
- AutPlay® certification
- TraumaPlay® certification
- I am an Accredited Play Therapist with Play Therapy UK (PTUK) and am listed on the Professional Standards Authority Accredited Register. I maintain professional insurance, safeguarding training, regular clinical supervision and continuing professional development.
- My master’s dissertation focused on therapeutic work with neurodivergent children.
LOCATION
Based in Queen Camel, Somerset
Koala Tree Child Therapy is based at The Old School on High Street in Queen Camel. The Old School is now a thriving community enterprise, home to a nearly full community of small businesses serving the local area. It brings together work, learning, health, wellbeing, creativity and local employment. Please contact me before visiting so we can arrange a time and discuss access.