About

Dr. Madeline Kent Barnes is an audiologist and founder of HearSouth Audiology. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders from Texas Christian University in 2019 and her Doctor of Audiology degree from the University of South Alabama in 2023. She graduated summa cum laude from both institutions, reflecting her commitment to academic excellence and lifelong learning.

Dr. Barnes completed her clinical externship at Medical Center Clinic in Pensacola, Florida, where she received advanced training in diagnostic audiology, hearing aids, cochlear implants, and vestibular assessment before continuing on as a full-time audiologist. After moving back to Huntsville, she joined an ENT practice where she helped establish and grow their Madison audiology clinic.

Throughout her career, Dr. Barnes has been passionate about helping individuals improve their hearing, communication, and overall quality of life. Her professional interests include hearing aid technology, tinnitus management, and adult diagnostic audiology. She believes hearing healthcare should be highly personalized and takes pride in building meaningful, long-term relationships with her patients.

A lifelong Huntsville resident, Dr. Barnes is proud to serve the community she has always called home. She lives in the same neighborhood where she grew up and values the close relationships that have always been at the center of her life. Much of her family still lives nearby, and she cherishes the opportunity to spend time together regularly. Those deep roots in Huntsville also led her to meet her husband, Sam, a fellow Huntsville native whom she attended high school with. The two were married in January 2026 and share their home with two miniature longhaired dachshunds, Stella and Simba.

Outside of the office, Dr. Barnes enjoys spending time at the lake, playing mahjong, and being with family and friends. The importance she places on relationships, community, and personal connection extends into her approach to patient care. Through HearSouth Audiology, she is committed to providing exceptional hearing healthcare in an environment where patients feel welcomed, valued, and genuinely cared for—because she believes hearing healthcare should feel more personal.