Get to Know Your PHC Audiologists - Allison Peter, Au.D.

Where did you grow up?

Wichita, KS

Where did you go to school? 

Bishop Carroll Catholic High school, Undergrad - Kansas State University, Graduate - University of Kansas Medical Center

Why did you want to become an audiologist?

Growing up I always knew I wanted to be in a helping profession. When entering college, I knew I wanted a job that would be challenging, rewarding, yet allow me to have consistent hours and focus on my family life. I started in Speech Pathology at Kansas State University. Many kids with speech issues have hearing concerns. This is what brought me to Audiology. Once I found the profession, I fell in love with it quickly and knew right away this is what I wanted to do!

Who is someone that has had an influence on you in the field of audiology?

I have had the opportunity to work for some amazing Audiologists. When at Kansas State University, I had the amazing opportunity to work for Dr. Kevin Ruggle with Hearing Doctors of Kansas. This was when I truly fell in love with the profession. Dr. Ruggle taught me how rewarding the profession can be. Working for Dr. Ruggle also gave me some insight on the business side of audiology as well! Another Audiologist that has had a huge influence on me is my boss, Dr. Kelly Spiller. Her go-getter attitude has encouraged me to continue pushing myself and to think outside of the box when it comes to the field of audiology. She is always very encouraging and working along side her truly makes me a better Audiologist.

What is your favorite area of audiology?

I have a strong love for a couple of different areas of audiology. I really enjoy working with hearing aids. Giving the patients the gift of hearing is the most amazing feeling! I love being able to collaborate with the patient to come up with the best treatment plan for them. I believe every patient has a different set of needs and expectations, so working with them to come up with the best treatment option is fun for me! I also enjoy working with our dizzy patients. Dizziness or unsteadiness can often be very bothersome and occasionally debilitating for our patients. Specialized testing allows us to evaluate the vestibular system to see if our ears could be playing a role. Fortunately, a lot of the disorders or issues we may find can be treated or improved in someway. I feel as though practicing Audiology allows me to improve our patients quality of life - this is why I enjoy what I do so much!

At what office(s) do you work?

I am currently at Mid America Balance Institute, Shawnee Mission, Menorah, and Lakewood.

Now some fun questions! What’s your favorite food?

Cheese, especially in queso form

What is one food you would never eat?

I hate barbecue sauce (which is a real shame living in KC).

What's your favorite travel destination?

Of all of the places I have traveled I would say my all time favorite place in the world would be my parents' house where I grew up. They have a lake in the backyard and waking up, drinking coffee, and looking at the serenity of the lake is where I feel the most at peace.

What are your hobbies?

I enjoy playing soccer! I also enjoy running and reading. My current favorite hobby, however, would be playing with my 6 month old daughter! She is truly the best.