What makes a great audiologist?

A great audiologist is not simply defined by their knowledge, experience, and training. While these factors are undeniably crucial, what sets an exceptional audiologist apart is their ability to blend strong clinical skills with robust communication and interpersonal capabilities.

This amalgamation ensures that they can effectively diagnose and manage hearing or balance issues while also building a comforting rapport with their patients. The ability to communicate complex medical terms in an understandable way and to listen empathetically to patient concerns is paramount.

In essence, a great audiologist strikes a perfect balance between technical expertise and human compassion, facilitating a patient-centered approach to hearing healthcare.

The Top 5 Audiologists in San Jose

1. Marni Novick, AuD from Silicon Valley Hearing

Dr. Novick has a 10-year-old practice with rave reviews. She's board certified by the American Board of Audiology with certificates in tinnitus management and clinical preceptorship. In addition, Dr. Novick is a member of Hearing Up network and strictly follows best practices. Her numerous five-star reviews highlight her excellent patient care.

This Google review was left by a satisfied patient:

“Wow, Marni is fantastic. I showed up to pick up a replacement hearing aid for my wife, and by the time I left I'd found out why I wasn't hearing well and had the wax cleared out of my ears. There is no one better at what she does. Competent, professional and so friendly and helpful.” 

And this 5-star Yelp review is a testament to her clinical skill:

“My experience with Dr. Novick has been nothing short of amazing. Her knowledge in audiology is impressive, and she possesses a unique ability to identify nuances that eluded previous audiologists. Dr. Novick takes the time to provide education about hearing and hearing aids, offering insights I hadn't known before."

2. Jane Baxter, AuD from Pacific Hearing Service

Dr. Baxter was recognized by ADA for her service to her community with the Leo Doerfler award for outstanding clinical services in the community throughout her career. With many years of experience, she is highly sought after for her knowledge and expertise.

“I have been a Pacific Hearing (Menlo Park) customer for 4 years and was referred there by my mom (in her eighties at the time). I saw how my mom's quality of life improved after her hearing improved from getting hearing aids. So I decided to have Dr Baxter evaluate me.

I had become increasingly aware that my hearing was getting worse. When I was in group meetings or social gatherings, I couldn't hear everything that people were saying. Increasingly, I had to ask people to repeat what they said, which became embarrassing and tiresome.

My other options were to not respond to a comment or question, or worse - to guess what they said. I decided that the ability to hear was a priority for me as a businessman and personally. I needed to be able to hear.

I highly recommend Pacific Hearing and Dr Baxter (since she was the one that helped me. I think everyone is good). I consider them to be hearing experts and best of class.”

This Yelp review speaks volumes:

“This place is the gold standard for hearing healthcare services. I'm so impressed.  I recommend them without hesitation.”

3. Christine Throm, AuD from Los Gatos Audiology

Dr. Throm is a past president of the California Academy of Audiology and has years of experience, including serving as director of audiology for an ENT clinic. Her dedication to her patients is evident in her exceptional care and commitment to staying up to date with the latest research and technologies in audiology.

A satisfied patient left this Google review:

“I cannot say enough positive things about Los Gatos Audiology, Dr. Throm, and her team. In the last 5 years I have suddenly lost hearing in both ears at different times. I have been to more ENTS and audiologists than I can count.

Dr. Throm is the first person who has expressed interest in trying to explain why and what else to consider. I have also worn hearing aids since the loss.

I was getting adequate service elsewhere when I was referred to LGA. What a breath of fresh air. Such great personal service and thorough explanations. They help problem solve whenever you need it and are receptive to as many questions as you have.

Please don't settle for adequate service. Hearing is so important. LGA not only recognizes that but also validates your concerns. I strongly suggest you give LGA a try.” 

And take a look at this Yelp review:

“Christine Throm was so informative on explaining the options I had with my severe hearing loss. I asked a lot of questions and she always gave me honest answers and we came up with some good options. It's a great office .. you can be reassured you will always get the help you need no matter what your hearing loss is. I highly recommend them!”

4. Sandra Wendschlag, AuD from Landmark Hearing Services

Named "Audiologist of the Year" by Consumer Business Reviews for several years running, Dr. Wendschlag has a reputation for exceptional patient care. A native of the Bay area, she takes pride in providing her patients with customized solutions that fit their individual needs.

A five-star Google review:

“Long time customer very professional, very accessible, because they have 3 locations I get in to see someone quickly. Most importantly they are extremely knowledgeable.”

This Yelp review says it all:

“I've been with Landmark and Sandra Wendschlag for ten years now, and am only on my second pair of hearing aids! We just flew back to San Jose for a family funeral, and though we live in Virginia now, I decided it was time to get a new pair of hearing aids.

I chose to get them from Landmark because I trust Sandra, and because she's done an outstanding job for me all these years!”

5. June McCullough, PhD, CCC-A from Hearing Solutions

San Jose: With a wealth of experience as director of audiology for an ENT clinic and as a past president of the California Academy of Audiology, Dr. McCullough is known for her dedication to her patients and to the audiology profession. She is committed to providing the latest in audiology research and cutting-edge technology to improve the quality of life for her patients.

A satisfied patient left this Google review:

“Everyone here is wonderful. They r awesome. Both my parents got their hearing aids from here.  Good prices and answered all our questions.”

An example of a Yelp review:

“Overall excellent visit. Dr McCullough has the difficult to find skill combination of high technical knowledge with clear and comprehensive communication of issues along helpful advise. Would highly recommend her to a family member or friend.”