Audiologists specialize in helping people with hearing, central auditory processing and balance disorders. Once the presence and type of hearing loss has been diagnosed, the audiologist recommends an appropriate treatment plan. This treatment plan may include dispensing and fitting hearing aids, providing auditory training and instruction in speech reading, using assistive listening devices, as well as recommending listening strategies for classroom or work situations.

Areas of Specialization
Audiologists may specialize in specific populations such as children, adolescents, adults or the elderly. They may also specialize in the type of hearing or communication problems such as hearing-impaired or stuttering problems.


Work Environment
Audiologists may work in hospitals, clinics, hearing loss clinics, private practice or with home health agencies. They may work as solo practitioners or in a group practice. They may also work in research-oriented establishments such as university or college settings.