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Ah, San Diego. Home to some of the world's most renowned attractions, from the San Diego Zoo's fascinating array of wildlife to Balboa Park's stunning, verdant landscapes, and the vibrant hustle and bustle of the Gaslamp District.
But amidst all this excitement lies an important question that requires your ear - where do you turn for professional, top-notch hearing care? Let's tune into the five best audiologists in this beautiful city, ensuring your ears never misses a beat (or the squawk of a Zoo resident!).
Navigating the world with hearing loss can be a daunting journey, full of challenges and unexpected obstacles.
The simplest of tasks can transform into complex hurdles, and the once familiar sounds of life can become muffled and distant. It's not just about missing your favorite song on the radio or the chirping of birds in the early morning; it's about losing the sense of connection and immersion within your environment. It's a situation that calls for compassion, understanding, and most importantly, professional expertise.
Finding the right audiologist becomes more than just a necessity; it becomes a lifeline to a better, more sonorous world.
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We launched Soundly.com in 2022 to create a better starting point for the hearing health experience.
Instead of selling hearing aids directly, we spend our time reviewing products, publishing clearly organized information, and building modern tools to make the process of accessing hearing health easier. Learn more.
Our work is funded through reader support. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Read more about our research process here.
- 50+ hearing aid brands reviewed and rated by our team of hearing aid wearers and audiologists
- 200+ hours each month spent researching brands and care options
- 100% independently owned and operated
We launched Soundly.com in 2022 to create a better starting point for the hearing health experience.
Instead of selling hearing aids directly, we spend our time reviewing products, publishing clearly organized information, and building modern tools to make the process of accessing hearing health easier. Learn more.
Our work is funded through reader support. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Read more about our research process here.
Featured in this article
What is an audiologist?
An audiologist is a licensed healthcare professional with an advanced degree who specializes in diagnosing, managing, and treating hearing or balance problems. They conduct a wide range of tests to assess the nature and extent of hearing loss and recommend appropriate treatment options, which might include hearing aids, cochlear implants, aural rehabilitation, or other strategies to enhance communication.
Audiologists also guide their patients through the rehabilitation processes, providing critical education on how to protect and optimize hearing health. With an expert audiologist's support, individuals with hearing impairments can navigate their auditory challenges and regain their quality of life.
What makes a great audiologist?
A great audiologist needs more than just technical expertise; they must also possess strong patient care skills and a deep sense of empathy.
Exceptional audiologists understand that hearing loss is not just a physical condition; it affects every aspect of an individual's life, from communication with loved ones to the ability to participate in social situations or professional settings. They recognize the emotional and psychological impacts and work patiently and compassionately with their patients to find the best solutions.
By combining expert knowledge with the ability to listen and empathize with their patients’ concerns, audiologists play a pivotal role in helping individuals adapt to hearing loss and enhance their overall well-being.
Top 5 Audiologists in San Diego
1. Stephanie Slali, AuD at Advanced Hearing Solutions
Dr. Stephanie Slali has nearly 20 years of experience in the field of audiology. Her clinic, Advanced Hearing Solutions, stands out for its excellent customer service. Patients rave about Dr. Slali's personalized care and attention to detail. If you're looking for a hearing professional that will put you at ease, Dr. Slali is an excellent choice.
With 8 five-star Google reviews and 16 five-star Yelp reviews, Dr. Slali's reputation for excellent service and expert care is demonstrably well-earned.
A satisfied patient left this Google review:
"Dr. Stephanie Slali has been amazing! Her depth of knowledge and her patience have been wonderful. I’m very happy with the results and the continued support."
Here's an example of a great Yelp review:
"I am very pleased with Advanced Hearing Solutions. Stephanie Slali was great at educating me about my hearing aids and always takes her time explaining things."
2. Matthew Newbitt, ScD, FAAA at North Coast Audiology
Dr. Matthew Newbitt of North Coast Audiology is a top-notch clinician with a fantastic office crew. He specializes in expert hearing aid fittings and tinnitus evaluations. His patients always leave feeling satisfied with their treatment and confident in their hearing aids.
If you're unsure of what hearing aid is best for you, Dr. Newbitt can help you find the perfect fit.
With an impressive tally of 24 five-star Google reviews and 19 five-star Yelp reviews, it is clear that Dr. Newbitt enjoys high esteem in the community for his audiology services.
These glowing Google review serves as solid evidence of his commitment to patient care:
"From the moment you call for an appointment, Jan always makes you feel so welcome and she makes sure you are seen in a timely fashion. Matt is very professional and knowledgeable about all the latest technology and will be happy to discuss it with you, but never pushes it on you, which is very refreshing."
Whether you're grappling with tinnitus or seeking the best hearing aid fit or hearing evaluation, you can rest assured you're in capable hands with Dr. Newbitt. Just take a look at this Yelp review:
"Highly recommend Matt for your hearing test needs. He was very personable, attentive, and knowledgeable. I needed a hearing test specific for the VA and he was able to work with my on my particular needs. Great overall experience and customer service."
3. Linda Oliver, AuD at Oliver Audiology & Hearing Aid Services
Dr. Linda Oliver is a highly skilled audiologist with decades of experience. Patient reviews speak volumes on her expertise and patient-centered care. Dr. Oliver is also an Adjunct Professor at SDSU, where she trains the next generation of audiologists.
In addition to teaching, she is active in her community and has donated hearing aids to hearing-impaired children in Mexico.
Dr. Linda Oliver has garnered a notable reputation within the community, as evidenced by her stellar online reviews. A total of 37 five-star Google reviews, averaging 4.9, and 44 Yelp reviews, with an average rating of 4.6, stand testament to her unwavering commitment to patient-centered care.
This Google review sheds light on the exceptional level of service and expertise that Dr. Oliver brings to her practice:
"If I could give Dr. Oliver and her entire staff 10 stars I would! My parents have been patients of Dr. Oliver for years. She has always provided them with top notch care. This is truly an excellent team of professionals who care for their patients. Thank you Oliver Audiology!"
Dr. Oliver consistently exceed patient expectations and offers care that is both comprehensive and compassionate. Just take a look at this Yelp review:
"THE BEST Audiology team in San Diego!!! I've been to other audiologists and no one tops Oliver Audiology. I have been a patient for many years and have had to move overseas and across the country and could always depend on Oliver Audiology to help with my hearing aids.
The attention to detail, service, and care I receive from the team has made a huge impact on my quality of life."
4. David Michael Illich, AuD at Professional Hearing Associates
Dr. David Michael Illich is a fantastic clinician with an impressive background. He was a past president for the California Audiology Association and has served on several national boards. Dr. Illich received his AuD from the Arizona School of Health Sciences and has served his community since the 1980s.
His approachable personality and expansive knowledge make him a top choice for patients.
Dr. Illich's commitment to patient care is indisputable, as evidenced by his extraordinary online reviews. His practice boasts a whopping 104 Google reviews with an impressive average rating of 4.9, and 9 five-star Yelp reviews.
These numbers speak for themselves, highlighting Dr. Illich's exceptional audiology services and his dedication to ensuring the best patient experience. Take a look at this standout Google review for a glimpse into the exceptional care patients receive under Dr. Illich:
"Dr. Illich is Wonderful! So is his Staff! Very Kind and Professional! Answered all of my questions and concerns."
Similarly, this Yelp review encapsulates the high level of service patients have come to expect from Dr. Illich and his team:
"I have been a customer for over 5 years and I have always found Dr. Illich and his staff willing to go the extra mile to ensure that their patients/customers are completely satisfied. They are professional, friendly, efficient and effective; it is a treat doing businss with them."
5. Lucia Kearney, AuD, CCC-A at chEARS Hearing Center
Dr. Lucia Kearney, originally from Argentina, has a stellar reputation in San Diego and sees both English and Spanish-speaking patients. Her patients appreciate her approachable and friendly personality, which makes for a comfortable visit. Dr. Kearney is an expert in all aspects of audiology and is passionate about improving her patients' quality of life.
Dr. Kearney's commitment to providing exceptional patient care is demonstrated in her online reviews. With 52 Google reviews that average 4.8 stars and 18 Yelp reviews that average 4.3 stars, you can be sure you're in good hands when seeking audiology services from her. Here's a glimpse into the kind of experience you can expect, as illustrated by this Google review:
"I've been to a couple different hearing aid providers, and ChEARS is hands down the best. I'm an audio professional in the entertainment industry, and somewhat of a difficult patient. Dr. Kearney worked with me very patiently to come up with a solution that worked for me. She is the absolute best!"
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, finding the right audiologist can significantly enhance your quality of life. It's a deeply personal journey that requires trust, understanding, and mutual respect.
The audiologists profiled here show a steadfast dedication to their patients, as reflected in their glowing online reviews. With their diverse backgrounds and extensive experience, each one brings a unique approach to patient care. Whether you're seeking help for the first time or looking to switch providers, we hope this information serves as a useful guide in your pursuit of better hearing.
Remember, the path to improved hearing health doesn't have to be walked alone - these dedicated professionals are here to accompany and support you every step of the way.
