About Us
Why VitalTalk?
We train clinicians to have better, more meaningful conversations with patients and families—especially during serious illness. Whether in person or online, our courses create a safe space to learn, practice, and grow.
The VitalTalk Method is grounded in over 20 years of research and real-world experience. Built on proven adult learning principles, it emphasizes practical skills that clinicians can immediately put into practice. At its core, the method treats communication like a skill or procedure, breaking it down into clear, teachable components. Unlike medical facts, communication must be learned through observation, guided practice, and real-time feedback. By framing communication as a structured, learnable, and teachable process we help clinicians build confidence and competence. As a result, participants leave our trainings better prepared to support patients and families with skill, compassion, and clarity.
By changing how care teams talk, we’re helping improve decisions, reduce stress, and put patient values at the center of care. We’re reaching clinicians across roles and specialties, including those in under-resourced communities, with flexible options like hybrid and self-paced courses.
Better communication isn’t just about knowledge—it’s about lasting change. And that change improves care for everyone.
389
Healthcare Institutions with VitalTalk Faculty
53140
Healthcare professionals taught at 1,153 institutions
1533
VitalTalk Faculty Members
Global Reach
VitalTalk’s teaching model transcends borders. Our experiential, feedback-driven approach has been successfully adapted by partners in Japan, Australia, Canada, and the Czech Republic—proving that how we teach is as powerful as what we teach. By translating both language and cultural nuance, our international collaborators continue to expand the impact of effective, compassionate communication around the world.
Our Story
VitalTalk is the premier training organization for clinicians seeking to advance their communication skills. Like any core procedure, effective communication requires intention, practice, and skill. It’s one of the most critical tools clinicians use daily.
Seth's Story
Initially skeptical, Seth found VitalTalk’s tools invaluable during a tough goals-of-care conversation—helping the care team and family align.
In this video, he shares how that moment transformed his outlook and why he now teaches with VitalTalk.
warren's Story
Warren reflects on the shift he’s seen at his institution since integrating interprofessional workshops. He shares how clinicians from different specialties are stepping into goals-of-care conversations confidently—and how skills have changed how they show up at the bedside.
Sinthana's Story
Sinthana shares how APPs are often placed in tough conversations with families—and how well-intentioned words can sometimes overwhelm. She reflects on the clarity and confidence she’s seen in colleagues trained by VitalTalk, and the real difference it makes in moments that matter.
Sarah's Story
Sarah reflects on a conversation with a patient’s husband who had previously refused code status discussions. Using VitalTalk skills, she led with curiosity and deep listening—ultimately making a recommendation that aligned with their values, leading to a signed DNR and a shared sense of clarity.
Our Vision
Every seriously ill patient will be surrounded by clinicians who can speak about what matters most and match care to values.
Our Mission
To integrate evidence-based serious illness communication skills into healthcare practice through an engaged network of trained faculty.