Investment Announcement: Off the Beaten Path: Rooted in Airdrie, Growing Mental Health for All

Kristy McConnell has turned a cold winter and a love for community into a thriving psychology practice in Airdrie.

The founder of Off the Beaten Path Psychology and Wellness began her journey as a private practice psychologist in 2017, starting small with outdoor walking therapy and eventually expanding to a heritage home with six offices shared among four businesses.

“We’ve lived here more than anywhere else,” said McConnell, a registered psychologist. “We can say Airdrie’s home now.”
She and her husband both grew up in RCMP families and he’s now a member. Transferring to Airdrie in 2012 led McConnell to become a school psychologist within the Rocky View School Division. She then opened her own practice on the side in 2017, and by 2022, she transitioned to running her practice full-time in her current property, Nauton House on First Street north of First Avenue, supervising other psychologists and expanding her team.

Today, Off the Beaten Path Psychology and Wellness has seven psychologists and occupies a historic home, blending modern mental health services with the character home’s charm.

The investment in the space reflects her deep roots in the community. Purchased in 2022, the 1,500 sq. ft. home dates back to 1940 and features preserved elements like a picket fence that honor its past. Future plans include self-sustainability and collaboration; McConnell emphasizes maintaining the business’s intimate, boutique atmosphere.

“She’s created a place that’s more than an office,” said colleague Carlin Olynyk, a registered provisional psychologist mentoring under McConnell. “It’s a community where clients feel safe and we as practitioners feel supported.”

McConnell credits Airdrie’s close-knit environment for much of her success.

“Most of our clients come from referrals,” she said. “A midwife might suggest us, or a teammate on a soccer team. It’s all about relationships.”
For McConnell and her team—including fellow tenants at Nauton House, like Little Lotus, Vena Women’s Health, and Silver Willow—working in Airdrie means blending professionalism with authenticity.

“We show up as our authentic selves so our clients can, too,” said Nicole Couillard, a registered provisional psychologist also mentoring with McConnell.

With a foundation built on trust and community, McConnell’s business is thriving—right where she calls home.

Learn more about McConnell’s business at obpwellness.com