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About Us
Our Mission
HealthyConflicts helps individuals and organizations navigate challenges with clarity, compassion, and theory by providing a confidential space to identify conflict early and the tools to create meaningful, lasting change.
The goal is simple: create a space where people feel safe to speak honestly and without fear of repercussions. HealthyConflicts uses an evidence-informed process designed to uncover what often goes unspoken within organizations. Drawing on my training and experience as a Certified Organizational Ombuds, I follow the International Ombuds Association’s Standards of Practice, guided by four core principles: Impartiality, Confidentiality, Informality, and Independence.
Conversations take place in a neutral, psychologically safe environment where I listen deeply and protect every individual’s identity. Information is shared only in aggregate to highlight patterns and root causes. This informal process does not place the organization on notice or trigger formal action, allowing leadership to gain authentic understanding of what is working, what is not, and where meaningful change can begin. Immediate steps are taken if any conversation uncovers imminent danger.
Our Guiding Principles
I just had an incredibly helpful and insightful conversation with Steve in his role as Ombuds. His perspective was crucial and advanced my ability to support someone in great need.
– E.N., M.D., Campus Chief
Steve remains committed to elevating the standards within the organization by challenging the status quo. His ability to do this in a manner that respects all parties and also drives change continues to get more and more effective.
– D.J., District Manager
Every charge nurse stated that they wish they could have more of these learning and robust conversation opportunities to build on their communication skillsets.
– M.L.J., Senior Clinical Manager
I have been told by many that, no matter what I do, I "must get Steven back to do the student's most favorite class on conflict resolution."
– C.K.C., PT, PhD, CFMT, NCS
Chair, Department of Physical Therapy
“You go above and beyond…..”
– Mohammed, Community Liaison
Steven Goodstein
Founder, HealthyConflicts, LLC
RN, MS, CO-OP®, CPXP, BCPA
About Steve
Steven E. Goodstein, R.N., M.S., CO-OP®, CPXP, BCPA, is a conflict resolution professional whose career spans healthcare, organizational leadership, business, and patient advocacy. He combines real-world experience with advanced training in negotiation and alternative dispute resolution (ADR) to help individuals and organizations navigate complex challenges with clarity and confidence.
Steve pioneered the Ombuds program at Providence Swedish Hospital in Seattle, Washington, and has supported healthcare systems, pharmaceutical companies, and community organizations with practical tools to identify root causes, improve communication, strengthen leadership, and build resilient systems. His approach blends deep listening, theory, and execution to create meaningful, measurable change.
Growing up in low-income project housing, Steve witnessed the impact of systemic barriers and communication breakdowns firsthand. Earning an associate degree while working full-time and raising a child, he went on to earn a Master of Science from Columbia University and hold leadership roles in both hospitals and the pharmaceutical industry. Steve's career has taken him from Transportation Aide to Clinician to Administrator on Duty, from pharma sales and community liaison roles to hospital Ombuds, and conflict resolution consulting.
He believes every voice matters, regardless of background, title, or education. Sustainable growth begins when people feel heard, valued, and empowered. That belief guides his work helping people connect across differences, solve problems, and grow.
A proud father, Steve’s daughter Merissa is an award-winning leadership development consultant. A New York native, he now lives in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, with Boomer, his 140-pound Bullmastiff.
Education
Master of Science – Negotiation and Conflict Resolution, Columbia University, New York
Master of Public Administration – Coursework Completed, Long Island University, New York
Certificate – Graduate Business Administration, Long Island University, New York
Bachelor of Science – Healthcare Administration, St. Joseph’s College, New York
Associate of Applied Science – Nursing, Kingsborough Community College, New York
Licensure & Certifications
Certified Organizational Ombuds Practitioner (CO-OP®), International Ombuds Association
Board Certified Patient Advocate (BCPA)
Board Certified Patient Experience Professional (CPXP), Patient Experience Institute
Certified in Mediation/Arbitration, EAC/NYS Unified Court System
Board Certified in Healthcare Quality Assurance (ret.)
Registered Nurse, New York State
Advanced Training
Organizational Ombudsman Practice Foundations, International Ombuds Association
Investigator – Title IX, Tulane University School of Law
Investigator – Equal Employment Opportunity, EEOC Training Institute
credentials
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