What is COMFORT?

The COMFORT Model was created by Dr. Joy Goldsmith and Dr. Elaine Wittenberg to fill a gap in healthcare communication during serious illness. Their research led to a practical, compassionate framework that helps nurses and caregivers have clearer, more meaningful conversations. What began as a research project has grown into a trusted training used nationwide.

Joy V. Goldsmith, PhD
Co-founder of the COMFORT Communication Project, Dr. Goldsmith is a professor and expert in health communication, specializing in clinician training, health literacy, and caregiver support.

Elaine Wittenberg, PhD
Dr. Wittenberg is a co-founder of COMFORT and a leading researcher in palliative care communication, with a focus on family caregiving and interprofessional healthcare teams.

To improve healthcare communication by equipping caregivers and clinicians with compassionate, evidence-based tools that support clarity, dignity, and connection.

Our mission is to improve communication in healthcare by equipping nurses, caregivers, and educators with compassionate, evidence-based tools. Through the COMFORT Model, we aim to reduce confusion, ease emotional distress, and ensure every conversation supports dignity, clarity, and connection.