Audiologist vs Hearing Aid Specialist in Los Gatos: Understanding the Difference
When you're searching for hearing care in Los Gatos, you'll likely come across two types of providers: audiologists and hearing aid specialists. These titles are not interchangeable, and understanding the difference can have a real impact on the quality of care you receive.
What is a Hearing Aid Specialist?
A hearing aid specialist, sometimes called a hearing instrument specialist or hearing aid dispenser, is licensed to perform basic hearing screenings and fit hearing aids. Their training focuses primarily on the sale and fitting of hearing devices. In California, becoming a licensed hearing aid dispenser requires passing a state exam, but does not require a college degree or clinical graduate training.
What is an Audiologist?
An audiologist holds a graduate-level degree in audiology — typically a Doctor of Audiology (AuD) — and is trained to evaluate, diagnose, and manage a broad range of hearing and balance disorders. This includes not just hearing aids, but also tinnitus, auditory processing disorders, hyperacusis, cochlear implant mapping, and more.
At Silicon Valley Hearing, Dr. Marni Novick is a Doctor of Audiology, Board-Certified by the American Board of Audiology, and licensed by the Speech-Language Pathology, Audiology & Hearing Aid Dispensers Board of California. She earned her Master's degree in Audiology from The University of Iowa in 2000 and her Doctor of Audiology degree from Salus University in 2004. Her clinical focus includes comprehensive hearing evaluations, hearing aid fittings, tinnitus management, cochlear implant mapping and more.
A Wider Scope of Care
One of the most significant differences between an audiologist and a hearing aid specialist is the range of services offered. A hearing aid specialist is, by definition, focused on hearing aids. An audiologist can address the underlying reasons for your hearing difficulty — not just fit you with a device.
At our practice, we offer comprehensive diagnostic hearing evaluations, tinnitus evaluation and treatment (including Lenire bimodal neuromodulation therapy), hyperacusis and misophonia management, cochlear implant mapping, custom hearing protection, and telehealth services for patients who prefer remote care.
Hearing Aid Fittings Done Right
When it comes to hearing aids, the fitting process matters just as much as the device itself. We perform Real Ear Measurements (REM) on every hearing aid fitting. This verification procedure uses a small probe microphone placed in the ear canal to measure how sound is actually being delivered to your eardrum, allowing us to program your hearing aids precisely to your hearing profile rather than relying on manufacturer averages. Many providers skip this step entirely — but it's a key part of achieving a consistently good result.
Why Personal Experience Matters
Dr. Novick has worn hearing aids since a young age. Her decision to pursue audiology came directly from her own experience with hearing loss. That background shapes how we approach patient care — with a focus on honest recommendations, practical guidance, and realistic expectations.
Our patients consistently reflect that in their reviews, and our ratings speak to a level of care that goes beyond simply selling a hearing device.
OTC Hearing Aids — A Note
Over-the-counter hearing aids are now available without a prescription, and for some people with mild, uncomplicated hearing loss, they may be worth exploring. That said, they are self-fitted and come without professional evaluation, ongoing programming adjustments, or follow-up care. For anyone with moderate to severe hearing loss, tinnitus, or other audiological concerns, working with a licensed audiologist provides a level of individualized care that an OTC device simply cannot replicate.
Schedule a Hearing Evaluation in Los Gatos
If you're weighing your options for hearing care in the Los Gatos area, we'd be happy to walk you through what a comprehensive audiological evaluation looks like and answer any questions about our services. Contact Silicon Valley Hearing at (408) 540-7128 or visit us at 340 Dardanelli Lane, Suite 22, Los Gatos to schedule an appointment with Dr. Novick.
