Therapeutic Recreation Section Breakfast & Education Sessions
Keeping Cool Under Pressure
12/3/2026 10:00 AM - 12/3/2026 11:30 AM
Speakers
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Martina Mathisen - Leadership Development Speaker & TrainerMartina Mathisen is a Leadership Development Speaker and Trainer with more than a decade of experience delivering engaging, practical educational programs to organizations across the country. She specializes in helping teams strengthen communication, navigate challenging interactions, and respond effectively under pressure. Martina works with park districts, municipalities, public libraries, and professional associations, providing staff development and leadership training tailored to the needs of each organization. Her Keeping Cool Under Pressure program helps participants recognize the difference between reacting and responding, manage their own responses during difficult situations, and focus on what they can control. A TEDx speaker and member of the National Speakers Association, Martina combines real-world examples, interactive learning, and practical techniques that participants can use immediately. Her approach makes professional development meaningful, memorable, and enjoyable.
Summary
In today's fast-paced and unpredictable work environment, how we respond under pressure shapes how others experience us as leaders and teammates. Whether dealing with a frustrated community member, a challenging coworker, or an unexpected situation, the ability to remain composed and communicate effectively is an essential workplace skill. Keeping Cool Under Pressure helps participants recognize the difference between reacting and responding, understand what triggers emotional reactions, and develop practical strategies for staying steady during difficult interactions. Through engaging examples, interactive exercises, and real-world scenarios, participants will explore how their voice, words, pace, and body language influence the direction of an interaction. The session emphasizes recognizing what is within our control, preventing unintentional escalation, and knowing when to pause or disengage rather than getting pulled into unnecessary conflict. Participants will practice simple techniques that support clearer communication, greater self-awareness, and a more confident, professional response under pressure. Participants will leave with useful strategies they can apply immediately in their interactions with coworkers, supervisors, and the communities they serve.
Upon completion of this session, participants will be able to:
1. Recognizethe difference between reacting and responding under pressure and identify how stress influences communication and behavior.
2. Apply practical self-regulation techniques to maintain composure and communicate with greater confidence during challenging workplace interactions.
3. Demonstrate non-engagement strategies that help prevent unnecessary conflict while maintaining professionalism and focusing on what is within their control.
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