Myka began her journey as an unofficial therapist in grade one. Her natural tendency to collect and care for struggling peers shone through into her teens. She was drawn to ensuring that her peers were safe and cared for.
Completing her undergrad with a B.Sc. in psychology at Trent University, Myka volunteered, in the "Special Education Classroom". On her first day volunteering the young grade 2 student with Autism became startled in the classroom, and sought solace by jumping onto Myka's lap seeking comfort from a stranger.
At University Myka was one of two student representatives that sat on the Psychology Department Committee. In her third year at University, Myka participated in an exchange program with the University of Freiburg. While in Europe, Myka worked with international students as a ski instructor /camp counselor. The student with suicidal ideology sought her out for help.
Moving to Banff in 1996 to ski guide international tourists on the ski hills, Myka continued her studies after completing her first degree by taking advanced psychology courses through Athabasca University.
In 2001, Myka completed her Education Degree at the University of Toronto. During her time at OISE, Myka once again found herself volunteering this time at the formerly known, Clark Institute for Mental Health. Using dance therapy, Myka worked with the nurses to use movement to calm and relax patients. Myka also participated in a play therapy program aimed at supporting early childhood trauma.
While teaching full time in Calgary, Alberta, Myka completed her Masters of Applied Psychology (M.Sc.) in 2008. Her research lead her to collaboratively developed a framework promoting behavioural and emotional changes called the ABCs of classroom discipline while establishing Behavior Leaders Canada. With the Cognitive Behavioural approach to classroom managements aligning with the demands of parenting, Myka is currently developing a parenting support based on her research.
Divorcing in 2012, Myka became a child advocate for children navigating their transition into blended family life. Currenty, Myka is writing a support resource for children, parents and grandparents who are braving the high conflict divorce.
Has Myka's journey been that of a healer since grade one, attracting the struggling and suffering individuals?
Or are we living in a world where, the road to healing wasn't meant to be travelled alone.
Myka Piekenbrock
Registered Psychologist #6661
Fun Facts!
Myka is a retired British Association of Teachers of Dance professional back up dancer who worked with Alberta's own Bobby Curtola and drag queen turned Gallery Merrick owner, Joe Bembridge, aka Miss Ellen Q.
Although skiing use to be her income source, she now skis recreationally with her family.
Myka continues to study and learn, aligning her skills with the individual needs of her clients.
Living in a blended family, Myka spends her time between Canmore and Okotoks.
Climbing and hiking remain her favourite past times along with the odd paddle board.
Myka Piekenbrock is a member of the Association of Family and Conciliation Courts the Alberta Chapter, The Canadian Psychological Association and The Psychological Association of Alberta.