Margrethe (Mags) Helles
BPsych, MPsych, MPhil
Member, Australasian Sleep Association
About
My Background
I hold a Master’s degree in Psychology and completed several years of research, study, and training in behavioural sleep medicine with leading experts Michael Perlis and Donn Posner. I also receive ongoing clinical supervision from a Clinical Psychologist to ensure my work remains grounded in best practice.
I have extensive experience supporting adults with moderate to severe sleep difficulties, sleep-related anxiety, and a range of psychological and emotional challenges.
Therapeutic Approach
My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and non-judgemental. I work with clients to understand current challenges, reconnect with what matters most, and develop practical skills to navigate difficult experiences.
I draw on evidence-based approaches including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Mindfulness‑Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT). Therapy is always tailored to each client’s unique circumstances to support meaningful and lasting change.
To maintain high clinical standards, I regularly attend national and international conferences and professional training.
Practice & Availability
My practice is based in Wānaka, and I also offer online appointments for clients throughout New Zealand. I see clients Monday to Thursday and typically have appointments available within two weeks.
I am committed to providing a safe, inclusive space for LGBTQIA+ clients and for people from diverse cultural, religious, and racial backgrounds.
Outside of my work in sleep psychology, I enjoy spending time in the mountains running, skiing, climbing, and practising meditation.
Margrethe (Mags) Helles
BPsych, MPsych, MPhil
Member, Australasian Sleep Association
-
The practice is based in Wānaka, with online psychology and sleep therapy sessions available throughout New Zealand.
-
Appointments available Monday to Thursday
Current availability within two weeks
-
Insomnia
Sleep anxiety
Chronic sleep difficulties
Stress-related sleep problems
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Insomnia
-
Australasian Sleep Association
-
Helles, M., Fletcher, R., Münch, M, & Gibson, R. (2024). Examining the structure validity of the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index among female workers during New Zealand’s initial COVID-19 lockdown. Sleep and Biological Rhythms. https://doi.org/10.1007/s41105-023-00509-6
Helles, M, Fletcher, R, Münch, M, & Gibson, R. (2022). Sleep’s relationship with mood and loneliness among working women during New Zealand’s COVID-19 lockdown, SLEEP Advances, Volume 3, Issue Supplement_1, October 2022, Pages A17-A18, https://doi.org/10.1093/sleepadvances/zpac029.041
Presented Master’s research at the Sleep Downunder conference in Brisbane, 2022. Supported by ASA travel fund, Massey University and the Lotteries Health Research Grant.
Invited speaker on Sleep in Perimenopause for Dr Taisia Cech’s Online Perimenopause Course (2025) https://www.thehealthstyledoctor.com