Meet Your Audiologist - Dr. Leslie Balderas

At Applied Hearing Solutions, we're proud to have Dr. Leslie Balderas, a dedicated audiologist whose passion for helping patients achieve their best hearing has made her an integral part of our Phoenix team. Her journey from a curious undergraduate student to a skilled Doctor of Audiology reflects the commitment to excellence that defines our practice.

A Phoenix Native's Educational Journey

Dr. Balderas is a true Phoenix native, having been born and raised in Arizona with deep roots in the community. Her educational path began at Arizona State University, where she pursued her bachelor's degree in Speech and Hearing Science. During her undergraduate years, she explored both research and clinical opportunities, working in a research lab at ASU and publishing several papers.

After careful consideration, Dr. Balderas decided that working directly with patients and gaining clinical experience was her true calling. She returned to Arizona State University to pursue her Doctorate in Audiology, beginning her graduate program in 2018. Like many students during that time, her clinical training was impacted by the shift to virtual learning, which made her externship selection even more meaningful.

Finding Her Home at Applied Hearing Solutions

Dr. Balderas began her externship at Applied Hearing Solutions in 2021, and the experience was so positive that she has remained with the practice ever since.

"What I like most about working at Applied Hearing Solutions is the meaningful impact that we all make on our patients' lives."‍

She appreciates being able to provide every patient with the highest standard of care possible, supported by the collaborative team environment that characterizes the practice.

The Power of Team Collaboration

One aspect of working at Applied Hearing Solutions that Dr. Balderas particularly values is the collaborative team spirit. From the front desk staff to the audiology assistants to the audiologists themselves, there's an open-door policy for asking questions about specific cases and sharing experiences. This collaborative approach directly benefits patient care, ensuring that every team member can contribute to optimal treatment outcomes.

Dr. Balderas finds her most rewarding experiences occur when family members recognize the transformation in their loved ones. Whether it's a spouse saying "we got our husband back" or family members noting they've "got grandpa back," these moments of recognition highlight the profound impact that proper hearing treatment can have on relationships and quality of life.

Addressing Patient Challenges with Compassion

Dr. Balderas acknowledges that one of her greatest challenges is working with patients who aren't yet ready to acknowledge their hearing loss or recognize its impact on their relationships. She approaches these situations with patience and education, counseling patients about their hearing loss and guiding them toward understanding the benefits of treatment.

When patients finally accept their hearing difficulties and become ready to address them, the entire treatment process becomes smoother and more effective. These breakthrough moments represent some of the most satisfying aspects of her work.

Commitment to Best Practices

Dr. Balderas is passionate about the Best Practice protocols that Applied Hearing Solutions follows with every patient. She understands that these evidence-based procedures ensure consistent, superior outcomes rather than relying on guesswork. The practice's commitment to procedures like Real Ear Measurement and test box measures sets them apart from many other clinics that lack the time or equipment to provide such comprehensive care.

Life Beyond the Clinic

Outside her professional duties, Dr. Balderas maintains strong community connections through her involvement with Rotary, where she has served for approximately 15 years at both club and district levels. She currently serves as program coordinator for Rotary's high school leadership camp in Arizona, reflecting her commitment to community service and youth development.

When not working or volunteering, you might find Dr. Balderas exploring local coffee shops, learning to play chess, or planning her next travel adventure. As a devoted sports fan, she enjoys watching baseball, basketball, and football with friends and family.

Experience Excellence in Hearing Care

Dr. Balderas exemplifies the dedication to patient care and professional excellence that defines Applied Hearing Solutions. Her commitment to Best Practice protocols and person-centered care ensures that every patient receives the comprehensive evaluation and personalized treatment they deserve.

If you're ready to experience the difference that expert audiological care can make in your life, contact Applied Hearing Solutions today at (602) 877-0000 to schedule your consultation with Dr. Balderas or one of our other experienced audiologists.