About Me
My Story
Hi, I’m Olena Santangeli (but you can call me Lena) – neuroscientist, mother, and founder of Caring Sleep Solutions.
Before becoming a certified sleep consultant, I spent over a decade studying sleep in Finland – digging deep into how it shapes our health, mood, and brain function. But nothing prepared me for the kind of sleep deprivation that hit when I became a mother.
I thought I was ready. I had all the science. But motherhood humbled me. I was exhausted, emotional, and desperate to feel like myself again. Eventually, I reached out for help. That decision changed everything. My baby started sleeping, I started recovering, and I realized: this is what so many parents need — not just information, but compassionate, evidence-based guidance.
That’s what I now offer through my work with families. I specialize in gentle, responsive sleep coaching that works with your baby’s temperament and your parenting style. No one-size-fits-all solutions, and never any “cry-it-out.”
Whether you’re navigating short naps, endless night wakings, or struggling with your own sleep, I’m here to help you find a path forward — one that actually feels good. Because better sleep isn’t just about rest… it’s about reclaiming joy, calm, and connection in your family.
Qualifications
MSc in Biology (Major in Human Physiology)
PhD in Neuroscience (Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Finland)
Certified Sleep Science Coach
Infant Sleep Consultant
Health and Wellness Coach
I am also:
Highly-cited scientific author on the topics of sleep, development and mental health
Invited keynote and guest speaker at national and international conferences and events
Award-winning speaker at multiple European Sleep Research Society events
During my PhD (the thesis book can be found here), I focused on the deep connection between a mother and her baby and how this relationship impacts our brain development, behavior, and sleep patterns as we grow. My research included both preclinical and clinical studies, focusing on sleep patterns and depression across different ages.
Every plan I create is backed by science and love — combining neuroscience with gentle, attachment-focused support for families who want better sleep without compromising connection.
My Approach
Personalized and science-backed
No two families are the same — and neither are the sleep solutions I offer. With a background in neuroscience and years of sleep research, I combine evidence-based methods with a deep understanding of your child’s temperament, your values, and what feels right for you. Together, we create a plan that is not only effective but also emotionally supportive and sustainable.
Empathetic and non-judgmental
I’ve been in your shoes — exhausted, overwhelmed, and unsure what to try next. That’s why I hold space for your unique story and challenges. You’ll never be asked to “tough it out” or leave your baby to cry it out. Instead, we’ll work together to find gentle, respectful strategies that bring rest without sacrificing connection.
For parents and adults
Whether you’re struggling with broken nights as a parent or dealing with sleep and focus issues yourself, my approach is tailored to support the developing brain and the adult mind. I work with both children and grown-ups to build healthier sleep habits and restore balance in daily life.
My Framework
Rooted in Science, Built Around You
Every sleep journey I guide follows a flexible yet structured framework I’ve developed through years of neuroscience research and hands-on coaching. It starts with understanding your unique sleep challenges — whether that’s night wakings, early rising, short naps, or adult insomnia — and identifying the underlying patterns behind them.
We then create a personalized plan that supports both behavioral change and emotional connection. I focus on the science of habit formation, circadian rhythms, and nervous system regulation, using evidence-based strategies that feel aligned with your values. Whether you’re teaching your baby to sleep more independently or rebuilding your own sleep health, this framework ensures lasting transformation — with empathy at every step.
Get In Touch!
Reach out for personalized, empathetic support in your journey towards restorative sleep and enhanced health. I will be happy to help you!