Laura Gifford, AuD

About Dr. Gifford

What are your clinical interests?
I primarily work in aural rehabilitation, hearing protection, and with musicians for their performance needs.

What do you love most about your job?
My patients are so much fun!

What’s a project you’re working on right now? Why is it meaningful to you?
I am currently working on increasing awareness of hearing protection and performance options for musicians in the area. I am working with many different companies to learn about the benefits of each different product. I am very involved in live music and songwriting here in Nashville, and it is important to me that everyone in that space protect and care for their hearing health. From fans and crew to

performers—whether a one-man acoustic show or a full stadium tour, each person needs their own customized care plan. I love music and I want everyone else who loves music to be able to enjoy it their whole lives.

How has your career benefited from being a member of the Academy?
The Academy has long been a resource for networking and staying connected with other professionals.

Any tips or advice for new members on how to best leverage their Academy membership?
Participate in the forums and networking. Learn from your peers and those seasoned professionals in the field. Share your own knowledge.

Fun Facts

Where is your hometown?
Nashville, TN

What would be the theme song of your life right now?
Changes – David Bowie

Who is someone who has made a big impact on your life? Why?
My aunt Brenda. She encouraged me to be artistic. She taught me how to paint as a child and enrolled me in other arts classes. She made sure that I was able to attend the Broadway Series musicals at our Performing Arts Center. And, as a speech-language pathologist, she is the reason I entered the profession of audiology!

What’s the strangest thing you’ve ever done?

Jumped on a flight to Paris from London after our plans for the trip had fallen through. I didn’t have any reservations or plans, and it was late on a Friday evening. I wasn’t going to miss the opportunity to visit Paris, though!