What to expect
Our Balance Point team includes vestibular audiologists, a board-certified neurologist, and physician assistant. We use our expertise and experience in the field to evaluate and diagnose many common disorders of the vestibular system. Dizziness and imbalance are often multifactorial in nature; therefore, we work closely with each other — as well as additional specialists — to provide our patients with the best possible care.
Benjamin J. Copeland
M.D., Ph.D.
As Balance Point's medical director, Dr. Copeland consults with the clinic's staff for each patient's plan of care. Dr. Copeland holds a Ph.D. in neuroscience as well a medical degree and training in Otology/Neuroethology and Otolaryngology or head and neck surgery. He has published significant research on ear and neck conditions and treatments and has won numerous awards.
Sarah A. Polacek
PA-CA
Sarah joined Otolaryngology Associates in 2014. As a physician assistant, she works closely with Dr. Copeland to provide diagnosis, treatment, and postoperative care related to the ear and other non-surgical ENT complaints including dizziness and vertigo. Sarah completed her undergraduate and postgraduate degrees at Butler University in Indianapolis. She received a Bachelor of Science degree in both health sciences and science, technology, and society with honors as well as a master’s degree in physician assistant studies. Sarah is certified by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants.
Breanne Gier
Au.D., CCC-A
Dr. Gier obtained her degree in clinical audiology (Au.D.) from Purdue University in West Lafayette, IN. She completed her clinical externship at Sound Health Services in St. Louis, MO. Breanne began working at Balance Point as a vestibular audiologist in June 2016. She is currently a member of the American Academy of Audiology (AAA) and the American Speech-Language Hearing Association (ASHA).
Samantha Mueller
Au.D.
Dr. Mueller joined the Balance Point team as a vestibular audiologist in April 2018. She holds a Doctor of Audiology (Au.D.) degree from Illinois State University in Normal, Illinois. Samantha previously worked professionally as an audiologist at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center/Children’s Hospital of Illinois in Peoria. She is a current member of the American Speech Language Hearing Association (ASHA).
Sarah Gurnik
Au.D., CCC-A
Sarah graduated from Indiana University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Speech and Hearing Sciences with a concentration in Audiology. She completed her Doctorate in Audiology from the University of Illinois. In her spare time, she loves cooking, taking long walks with her Goldendoodle, Jack, and spending time with her husband.
We are a professional team of medical experts including vestibular audiologists, a board-certified neurologists and physician assistants.
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