Our Staff

Heather Castellano, NBC HIS, HSA #3123

Hearing Instrument Specialist

Heather Castellano is a Nationally Board Certified Hearing Instrument Specialist and certified Tinnitus Care Provider through the International Hearing Society (IHS). She brings 25 years of experience in the healthcare industry to her role as owner and operator of Hearing Centers of Nevada, where she is widely recognized for her patient-centered, outcomes-driven approach to hearing healthcare.

Heather has dedicated over 12 years to serving the geriatric population, with a strong emphasis on dementia care, prevention, and patient education. Under her leadership, Hearing Centers of Nevada expanded beyond traditional clinical care to implement community care protocols across 17 long-term care facilities throughout the Las Vegas Valley, improving access and continuity of hearing healthcare for vulnerable populations.

She leads a multidisciplinary team that serves a diverse patient base, including Veterans and Department of Labor claimants, while also maintaining a strong commitment to community outreach and philanthropy. Heather is a proud Starkey CEO Circle member and a six-time “Best of Las Vegas” award recipient, reflecting both clinical excellence and community trust.

Outside of the clinic, Heather enjoys spending time with her family and volunteering her time to support those in need. She is currently pursuing coursework to launch a non-profit organization focused on helping individuals with hearing loss and limited financial means gain access to prescriptive amplification devices.

Elizabeth Zhelev, NBC-HIS

Nationally Board Certified Hearing Instrument Specialist

Elizabeth is a Nationally Board Certified Hearing Instrument Specialist with over 14 years of experience. She made a career change in 2011, drawn by her family’s legacy in the hearing profession. Prior to this, she earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology from UNLV and worked in cancer research. Elizabeth, a Las Vegas native, is also a devoted mother and wife.

Elaine Backman, BC-HIS

Elaine is a Board-Certified Hearing Instrument Specialist with over 10 years of experience providing compassionate, patient-centered hearing care. She is deeply committed to improving quality of life through better hearing and takes pride in building meaningful, trusting relationships with every patient she serves.

Elaine’s approach blends strong clinical knowledge with attentive listening and individualized care, ensuring each person is fit with the right hearing solution for their unique lifestyle and communication needs. Elaine is known for her warm personality, professionalism, and genuine dedication to helping patients feel confident, supported, and successful throughout their hearing journey.

Outside of the office, Elaine values health and fitness, enjoys staying active, and cherishes spending time with her family.

Kathryn Munda, HIS

Hearing Instrument Specialist

Kathryn Munda is a Licensed Hearing Instrument Specialist who brings warmth, dedication, and a genuine passion for helping others hear their best to our team.

Kathryn began her journey with us as a Hearing Instrument Specialist Apprentice and Front Office Administrator, quickly demonstrating an impressive ability to learn, grow, and connect with the people we serve. After successfully completing her apprenticeship and earning her license, she has continued to expand her knowledge and skills while providing the thoughtful, personalized care our patients have come to know and appreciate.

Smart, loyal, and hardworking, Kathryn approaches each patient with kindness and patience. She understands that better hearing is about much more than hearing sounds—it is about staying connected to conversations, relationships, and the moments that make life meaningful. She finds great fulfillment in helping patients navigate their hearing journey and discover solutions that allow them to communicate with greater confidence.

Now a full-time Pahrump resident, Kathryn is proud to care for members of the community she calls home. Her outgoing personality, quick wit, and compassionate nature make patients feel comfortable and welcome, while her dedication to hearing healthcare continues to drive her professionally.

Outside of the office, Kathryn enjoys music, discovering great food, and, of course, spending time with the very important Dottie, her much-loved cat—who remains firmly in charge at home.

Laura Zucarrelli, Au.D.

We are excited to welcome Dr. Laura Zucarrelli to Hearing Centers of Nevada as a contract audiologist. With more than 25 years of experience in hearing healthcare, Dr. Zucarrelli has been practicing audiology since 1999 and brings extensive clinical knowledge and a warm, patient-centered approach to the individuals she serves.

Dr. Zucarrelli received both her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from the University of Utah and went on to earn her Doctorate in Audiology (Au.D.) from A.T. Still University of Health Sciences in 2006.

Throughout her career, Dr. Zucarrelli has remained dedicated to helping individuals improve their hearing, communication, and overall quality of life through personalized hearing care. She understands that hearing healthcare extends far beyond an audiogram—it is about helping people remain connected to their families, conversations, activities, and the sounds that matter most in their lives.

In addition to her work with Hearing Centers of Nevada as a contract audiologist, Dr. Zucarrelli serves the students at the Clark County School District (CCSD) as an audiologist. Her experience across both educational and clinical settings provides a valuable and well-rounded perspective to the patients she serves.

Outside of audiology, Laura enjoys golfing and traveling, whether spending time on the course or exploring new destinations.

We are delighted to have Dr. Zucarrelli working alongside the Hearing Centers of Nevada team and look forward to the experience, expertise, and compassionate care she brings to our patients.

Jenny Young

Office Manager

Jennifer Young, is HCN’s Office Manager, and has been an integral part of Hearing Centers of Nevada since its inception. With a background in Business Management and over 8 years of experience working in geriatric health services, Jenny has played a key role in developing initiatives such as the mobile hearing care unit and quick reimbursement submission protocol. She is an expert in credentialing, and handles day to day office operations. Jennifer specializes in insurance billing, Veterans Affairs, and Department of Labor Claims. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Management from the University of Phoenix. In her spare time, Jennifer enjoys spending time with her family and her dogs. She is an avid Golden Knights fan! Go Knights Go!

Danielle Kolodziej

Front Office Administrator

With a stellar 8-year background in administrative roles, Danielle Kolodziej brings a wealth of expertise to our front office team. Known for her exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail, she has consistently ensured smooth operations in various administrative capacities. Beyond the professional realm, Danielle is a dedicated softball enthusiast who finds joy in the camaraderie of the game. Her commitment to excellence extends to her personal life, where she treasures quality time spent with her family. We are delighted to welcome Danielle to our team, where her passion for efficiency and teamwork will undoubtedly contribute to our success.

Madison Larkin

Patient Care Coordinator

Born and raised in Las Vegas, Nevada, she brings a warm, energetic personality and a passion for helping others to our team. After relocating to Pahrump four years ago, she quickly embraced the community and now proudly calls it home. Recently married, she is enjoying this exciting new chapter of life while pursuing her education in Radiology and Sonography at Great Basin College.

Known for her outgoing nature and positive attitude, she enjoys connecting with people and creating meaningful relationships. Outside of work and school, she loves spending time with her dog on long walks, relaxing with a good movie, and snuggling with her beloved cats. Her enthusiasm for life, dedication to learning, and friendly approach make her a valued member of our team.

Patient Reviews

Read what some of our patients have to say about our staff and our office in our Google Reviews!

5 out of 5 Stars based on 764 Reviews on Google.

As on several visits in the past, excellent care. Saw Dr Jensen this time. Very professional and caring, addressed my needs. Office staff also very helpful. I definitely will go to this office in Pahrump for all my future hearing needs.

Reviewer Profile Photo Joanne Calabrese, on Google

Great Place. I lost my hearing in one night. These people helped me to restore my hearing and stopped my tinnitus. Very courteous and patient with me.

Reviewer Profile Photo Bill Barney, on Google

Casey is intelligent, caring and efficient. Ellen & Richard Semerjian

Reviewer Profile Photo Ellen Semerjian, on Google

Exceptional customer service will highly recommend this clinic to anyone needing Hearing aids.

Reviewer Profile Photo Tuiga Renee Bega, on Google

Absolutely wonderful

Reviewer Profile Photo lance gals, on Google

Top notch

Reviewer Profile Photo Rick Baker, on Google

Excellent care, very professional and thorough. Pleasant experience dealing with Dr. Elaine Backman and office manager Danny.

Reviewer Profile Photo Eugene Ginley, on Google

Extremely helpful in pointing out all the bells and whistles of my hearing aids

Reviewer Profile Photo Oscar O'Keefe, on Google

Wow - for the time in my life it’s feel like someone understands my problems and pain that I been having for years. Heather is one of the best I have ever seen. I’m looking forward for our next visit, because I feel confident that she can improve upon my...

Reviewer Profile Photo James Hollins, on Google

Always a good experience. Even on follow up visits, they take their time and are very thorough. Thanks to all the staff for doing a great job!

Reviewer Profile Photo Tara Galvez, on Google

The staff was awesome. Heather is fantastic, she explain everything to me step by step. Answered all my questions. Great personality and payed attention to what I had to say. I will definitely will be referring Hearing Centers of Nevada to family and friends.

Reviewer Profile Photo Joanne Mize, on Google

This place is the bomb. I have never been treated so well and so professionally as I have at the Hearing centers. They are really knowledgeable and and professional, while being kind and helpful. The whole staff is fantastic and work to make your life better 4 thumbs up 👍👍👍👍

Reviewer Profile Photo Erik Lindqwister, on Google

Excellent customer service!!

Reviewer Profile Photo Dan Harris, on Google

Didn't have to wait long and the consult was very thorough. Very professional and informative. Pleasurable experience

Reviewer Profile Photo Randy Pazik, on Google

Elizabeth Zhelev is always amazing ! She is friendly , and efficient ! The office staff is so kind and helpful. Highly recommend Hearing Centers of Nevada .

Reviewer Profile Photo Martha Wolsky, on Google

This was my first visit with Hearing Centers of Nevada. I was a little nervous, but the audiologist put me at ease right away. She explained the tests she did, and asked me about my hearing over the years. She explained my options and answered my questions. She was friendly...

Reviewer Profile Photo Pamela Baier, on Google

Thorough evaluation and explanation of procedures. Special consideration of our time frame was given. We look forward to our nw having aides.

Reviewer Profile Photo Margo Thayer, on Google

All the stuffs are very nice.

Reviewer Profile Photo Semira Lee, on Google

The nicest, most helpful people ever! I've had them a four years now, best decision ever. Each time I go back they are wonder! Great people I highly recommend them!

Reviewer Profile Photo Pam Tanzey, on Google

Best staff in the world and helpful even when you need a different treatment option

Reviewer Profile Photo Talibah Abdul-Wahid, on Google