Our team’s expertise in pediatric audiology enables us to carefully evaluate children's hearing abilities and ensure that any hearing loss is detected early and appropriate interventions are taken.

A Hearing Test Should Give You Answers, Not Obligations

by | Sep 15, 2025 | Hearing Aids, Patient Resources

It’s not uncommon for individuals to hesitate before scheduling a hearing test; a frequent concern is that a visit to a hearing clinic will automatically lead to hearing aid recommendations.

However, we take pride in dispelling this myth by basing our approach on honesty, education, and the highest standards of care.

While hearing aids are an essential solution for many, they are not the answer for everyone. But everyone deserves clarity and a professional evaluation of their hearing health.

Why Do People Delay Getting Their Hearing Checked?

Statistics report that adults often wait seven to 10 years from the first signs of hearing loss before seeking a hearing test. Why such a delay?

One of the primary reasons is the fear of being pressured into purchasing hearing aids. Many also downplay their condition, thinking their hearing loss isn’t significant enough or is merely an inevitable part of aging.

But these misconceptions can lead to further complications, as untreated hearing issues can exacerbate depression, anxiety, balance difficulties, and cognitive decline.

What to Expect at a Hearing Assessment

When you book a hearing assessment with our friendly expert team, you enter an environment that is focused on your comfort and informed care.

Our process begins with a friendly discussion about your lifestyle, medical history, and specific hearing challenges.

Your ears will then be thoroughly examined with an otoscope to check for obstructions or buildup that might be affecting your hearing. Sometimes, immediate relief is possible just by removing earwax or blockages.

You can rest easy knowing that our team adheres to best-practice audiological standards, ensuring transparency throughout your assessment and leaving ample time to address any concerns you may have.

Our emphasis is on understanding your needs, rather than selling solutions. After all, you may not need hearing aids in the end, and that’s okay! If that’s the case, we still stand ready to assist with annual hearing assessments so your hearing can be monitored with expert eyes.

What If Hearing Aids Are Needed?

Rest assured, if hearing aids are recommended, it’s because they’re the right choice for you based on a comprehensive evaluation.

Your recommendations are tailor-made to fit your unique ears, and we draw from our partnerships with major hearing aid manufacturers to give you full confidence in the options available. Here, fittings are guided by expertise, not sales quotas.

It’s this dedication to patient trust that has earned us the title of “Best Place to Buy Hearing Aids” for nine consecutive years.

When to Book a Hearing Test

Think about the last time you noticed an issue with your hearing.

Common signs of hearing loss include struggling with conversations, frequently turning up the volume, perceiving others as mumbling, or regularly asking others to repeat themselves.

Scheduling a hearing test is not a commitment to purchase hearing aids; it’s a step toward gaining clear, accurate insights into your hearing health.

Not everyone needs hearing aids, but you deserve to be informed and receive care grounded in compassion. Audiological Services stands by our commitment to honesty and thorough diagnostics, tailoring recommendations to meet your unique needs.

Request a callback to get your questions answered or concerns alleviated, or give us a call at (936) 632-2252 to get started today!

Book a Hearing Test Today!

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Leah Guempel Au.D., CCC-A

Dr. Leah Guempel received her Bachelor of Arts in Communication Disorders in 2007 and her doctorate from the University of Texas in 2010. While in graduate school, Dr. Guempel was named outstanding first year graduate student in Audiology and Sertoma outstanding graduate student in Audiology. During graduate school, Dr. Guempel had several clinical rotations she completed throughout Austin including rotations at Dell Children’s Hospital and an ENT practice. Dr. Guempel also had a rotation at Cook Hearing & Balance as a student clinician, and after completing her 4th year rotation there, worked as a Doctor of Audiology in the Austin and Cedar Park locations. Dr. Guempel became the audiologist at the Cook Hearing & Balance office in San Marcos when it opened September of 2011. In December of 2012, Dr. Guempel bought Cook Hearing & Balance in San Marcos and renamed it Central Texas Hearing Center. She then opened the Central Texas Hearing Center in Lakeway, Texas. Most recently she purchased Audiological Services in Lufkin, TX. Dr. Guempel is licensed to practice Audiology in the State of Texas. She is a Fellow of the American Academy (AAA) and holds a certificate of clinical competence in Audiology from the American Speech-Language Hearing Association (ASHA). Dr. Guempel has a passion for hearing awareness. She enjoys her field of practice and hopes to inform and educate the community about the importance of early detection and the use of hearing protection. She is dedicated to helping those who suffer from hearing impairment. In her free time, Dr. Guempel enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, and anything outdoors.