+17347943777 2311 Shelby Ave Ste 105 Ann Arbor MI 48103

#1 Top Rated Counselors & Therapists in Ann Arbor

Counseling in Ann Arbor

Are you ready to step out of survival and into true freedom? What if the patterns you've carried — the emotional weight, the invisible barriers — aren't permanent, but invitations to heal? Together, we'll explore what's beneath the surface — the quiet fears, the blurred boundaries, the parts of you that were never given a voice, the unresolved pain — and create a path forward that aligns with who you're becoming.

No Waitlist

In person and Virtual sessions

Christian Therapy Practice

Top Rated

Awarded Best in Ann Arbor for 6 consecutive years 4.7/5 Google (50+ Reviews)

10+

Years of Experience

Trusted Expertise in Counseling

38%

Success Rate

Data From American Psychiatric Association Shows that 75 percent of people who receive psychotherapy saw improvements in their emotional and psychological well-being.

5,935+

In-Person & Online Sessions Completed

Completed over 30000+ sessions

How We Help

Explore the range of counseling and therapy services we offer online and in Ann Arbor, MI to support your mental health and well-being journey.

Trauma Therapy

Start Trauma Therapy

Trauma therapy is a safe, supportive space where you can begin to process and heal from difficult experiences. Whether you're...

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EMDR Therapy

Experience EMDR Therapy

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a powerful, evidence-based approach to healing trauma. EMDR helps you process painful memories...

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Christian Counseling

Explore Christian Counseling

Christian counseling offers a space where your faith and Evidence Based Practices are honored together. This approach blends psychological insight...

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CBT Therapy

Explore CBT Therapy

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a goal-focused, evidence-based approach that helps you understand how your thoughts influence your emotions and...

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Couples / Marriage Therapy

Strengthen Your Relationship

Couples or marriage therapy offers a supportive space to rebuild trust, improve communication, and reconnect with your partner. Whether you're...

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Family Therapy

Support Your Family

Family therapy helps families navigate stress, improve communication, and strengthen connection. Whether you're facing conflict, parenting challenges, or life transitions,...

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DBT Skills

Discover DBT Skills

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) teaches powerful tools for managing intense emotions, reducing conflict, and improving relationships. Ideal for those struggling...

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Online Therapy

Start Online Therapy

Online therapy offers convenient, flexible support from the comfort of your home, car or office. Whether you're balancing a busy...

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Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) / Tapping

Heal with EFT

Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) is also referred to as Tapping or Psychological Acupressure. Tapping or touching specific energy meridian points...

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Anxiety & Stress Therapy

Ease Anxiety & Stress

Anxiety and stress can affect every area of life. Our therapy sessions provide evidence-based tools to manage worry, calm the...

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Grief & Loss Counseling

Navigate Grief & Loss

Grief is not one-size-fits-all. Whether you've lost a loved one, a relationship, a pet, or a part of your identity,...

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Depression Therapy

Manage Depression

Depression can make even the simplest tasks feel overwhelming. In therapy, you'll gain tools to shift patterns of negative thinking,...

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Premarital Counseling

Prepare for Marriage

Premarital counseling equips couples with skills to build a strong foundation for marriage. You'll explore communication styles, conflict resolution, financial...

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Adolescent & Child Therapy

Support Your Child or Teen

Adolescent and child therapy provides age-appropriate support to help kids and teens express emotions, build confidence, and develop coping strategies....

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Wilderness Therapy

Experience Wilderness Therapy

Step out of the office and into nature. This extended 90-minute therapy session takes place on a private 23-acre retreat...

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Contact
Refreshing Waters

Refreshing Waters is currently accepting new clients. Availabile for online and in-person sessions.

Our Story

Our logo, the lotus flower, beautifully symbolizes resilience and renewal. Just as the lotus rises each morning, untouched by the muddy waters that surround it, we believe healing can rise from even the most difficult circumstances. The name Refreshing Waters reflects the power of water to cleanse the old, spark new growth, and move you toward new beginnings. At RWCC, we believe every person has the capacity to transform, heal, and become more fully who they were created to be.

Mission

At Refreshing Waters Counseling & Consulting, our mission is to walk alongside you in your journey toward healing, growth, and restoration—emotionally, relationally, and spiritually. As a Christian practice, we integrate evidence-based counseling with biblical principles, offering a safe and compassionate space where your faith is honored. Through therapy, you’ll gain tools that strengthen your walk with God, support emotional healing, and help you build the life He’s calling you to.

Belief

We believe that every person is created in the image of God, uniquely gifted and deeply loved. Life’s challenges may cloud your view of yourself, but the truth remains: you are resilient, and God has a purpose for you. At RWCC, we come alongside you to help you rediscover your God-given strength, restore hope, and experience wholeness through faith and professional care.

Vision

Our vision is to see individuals and families live in emotional and spiritual freedom. We are committed to creating a Christ-centered space where people can reflect, grow, and move forward in truth and grace. When you live in emotional and spiritual health, your transformation becomes a testimony—impacting not just your own life, but the lives of those around you.

As Seen On

Awards

FAQs

Meet Us

Get to know the compassionate therapists who make up our practice. Each member of our team brings unique expertise and a shared dedication to helping you feel heard, supported, and empowered.

Sheila Burns

Founder, LPC, CAADC

I hold a Masters in Counseling, am a Licensed Professional Counselor, a Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor, a Licensed Social Worker, and a Master Addiction Counselor. I have over 20 years of extensive experience with mental health and substance abuse issues such as trauma, anxiety, depression and relationship issues.
I rely particularly on Evidence Based Treatments and Promising Practices, including Cognitive Behavioral Approaches (CBT), Dialectic Behavior Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Mindfulness, Multi-systemic treatments, Insight Oriented and Solution Focused treatment modalities.
I believe we are resilient beings that have the power to overcome many adversities, leading to a clearer, positive sense of self. I am deeply compassionate, non-judgmental, insightful, versatile, and have a solid sense of humor.

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Stacie Johnson

LMSW

Stacie Johnson is a LMSW with over 20 years of experience utilizing DBT, EMDR, CBT, Progressive Exposure, Somatic Processing and Equine Assisted Psychotherapy. She has specialized in treating trauma, anxiety, PTSD, depression and addictions. She focuses treatment on the belief that individual emotions are stored differently in the body and are experienced in both the mind and body of a person and working to build new, healthy neuropathways results in healing from even long lasting symptoms.

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Tyson Brown

LPC

My name is Tyson Brown and I have been working in the world of mental health for 12 years. I am a professional counselor licensed in the state of Michigan. I am passionate about helping people understand the root cause of their problems. I want to empower you by learning to accept the things you can't control, while targeting the areas of your life you do have control over. Lets work towards resolution and help you live the life you want to live. My areas of specialty are couples counseling, family conflict, addictions to unwanted sexual behaviors, and trauma. I draw primarily on CBT, DBT, ACT, MI, Attachment-based and Trauma focused treatment interventions. My experience has taught me there is no one-size-fits-all approach, and together we will find a unique solution to your concerns.
On a personal level, I have been married for 13 years and have two wonderful sons. I am passionate about enjoying the outdoors and spending quality time with my family and friends.

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Jillian LaDoux

LCSW

Jillian LaDoux is a compassionate, creative, and skilled mental health professional committed to walking alongside clients as they navigate life's most vulnerable, transitional, and transformative moments. Her integrative and trauma-informed approach helps individuals move toward healing with insight, empowerment, and emotional resilience.

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Tarek Ziyad Kanaan

LLMSW

Tarek Kanaan is a LLMSW specializing in helping individuals navigate challenges related to anxiety, depression, and relationship issues. With a compassionate and client-centered approach, Tarek supports people of all ages in overcoming difficult seasons of life to experience more satisfying lives and deeper relationships.

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Reno

Therapy Dog & Certified Cutie

Hi, my name is Reno, I'm a French Bulldog, born on 10-1-2021. I work with my mom Sheila Burns and I love to meet everyone who comes to the office. I will often be at the front door waiting to greet you!

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Join Our Team

Testimonials

Leanna HopeHappy Client
👉 Tap & Hold to Stop
I've been coming here for a few months after searching over a year to find a good therapist. I am a social worker myself so I was very choosy about the modalities and services offered. I am SO glad I landed here, Sheila is wonderful. She challenges me in sessions but provides such a supportive and safe environment. I finally feel like I have someone I can trust to confide in and she truly listens to my perspective. I recommend Refreshing Waters every time I can. I feel lighter each time I go.
Jill AndersonHappy Client
👉 Tap & Hold to Stop
Above & beyond my expectations. Refreshing Waters consistently goes above and beyond my expectations. They've provided services I never knew I wanted or needed. It's a progressive practice offering excellent counseling, professionalism, and convenience. With variety in communication methods, they help schedule via text/email. They offered secured HIPAA-compliant video when I couldn't meet in person. When I changed insurance, they accepted it. By setting annual goals and milestones, I see progress. I highly recommend.
Meg CastroHappy Client
👉 Tap & Hold to Stop
Sheila Burns helped me navigate a very difficult time. I've learned about myself and how to better cope with stresses. My visits keep me grounded!! I highly recommend!
Bruce ScottHappy Client
👉 Tap & Hold to Stop
Sheila is an amazing counselor. Not enough words describe the positive experience and peace of mind I walked away with! She also has the best puppy dog EVER!!
Charlotte SmithHappy Client
👉 Tap & Hold to Stop
I started doing EMDR here with Sheila and found it incredibly helpful. After a waitlist period, I got a call when availability opened. I'm very grateful for the guidance and help received.
Sha'Liese JenningsHappy Client
👉 Tap & Hold to Stop
Sheila & Reno are AMAZING. This is the best place I've been to for therapy. After losing my mom, Sheila helped me regain purpose. EMDR was transformative here.
Jennifer WackerHappy Client
👉 Tap & Hold to Stop
Sheila is incredible. For almost two years, she's guided me through trauma work. Flexible scheduling (in-person/remote) and feeling safe/heard make all the difference. Reno adds extra comfort!
Michael StevensHappy Client
👉 Tap & Hold to Stop
Sheila is the best therapist I've ever had! Her down-to-earth approach helped me heal. Reno (the therapy dog) and her authenticity create a welcoming space.
Laurel SHappy Client
👉 Tap & Hold to Stop
EMDR changed my life. Sheila's flexible scheduling and tailored approach made recovery possible. The online portal simplified communication. Absolutely recommend.
Jessica WelshHappy Client
👉 Tap & Hold to Stop
The convenience of in-person/zoom sessions and responsive communication have impacted my daily life. Truly a safe place for growth.
Leanna HopeHappy Client
👉 Tap & Hold to Stop
I've been coming here for a few months after searching over a year to find a good therapist. I am a social worker myself so I was very choosy about the modalities and services offered. I am SO glad I landed here, Sheila is wonderful. She challenges me in sessions but provides such a supportive and safe environment. I finally feel like I have someone I can trust to confide in and she truly listens to my perspective. I recommend Refreshing Waters every time I can. I feel lighter each time I go.
Jill AndersonHappy Client
👉 Tap & Hold to Stop
Above & beyond my expectations. Refreshing Waters consistently goes above and beyond my expectations. They've provided services I never knew I wanted or needed. It's a progressive practice offering excellent counseling, professionalism, and convenience. With variety in communication methods, they help schedule via text/email. They offered secured HIPAA-compliant video when I couldn't meet in person. When I changed insurance, they accepted it. By setting annual goals and milestones, I see progress. I highly recommend.
Meg CastroHappy Client
👉 Tap & Hold to Stop
Sheila Burns helped me navigate a very difficult time. I've learned about myself and how to better cope with stresses. My visits keep me grounded!! I highly recommend!
Bruce ScottHappy Client
👉 Tap & Hold to Stop
Sheila is an amazing counselor. Not enough words describe the positive experience and peace of mind I walked away with! She also has the best puppy dog EVER!!
Charlotte SmithHappy Client
👉 Tap & Hold to Stop
I started doing EMDR here with Sheila and found it incredibly helpful. After a waitlist period, I got a call when availability opened. I'm very grateful for the guidance and help received.
Sha'Liese JenningsHappy Client
👉 Tap & Hold to Stop
Sheila & Reno are AMAZING. This is the best place I've been to for therapy. After losing my mom, Sheila helped me regain purpose. EMDR was transformative here.
Jennifer WackerHappy Client
👉 Tap & Hold to Stop
Sheila is incredible. For almost two years, she's guided me through trauma work. Flexible scheduling (in-person/remote) and feeling safe/heard make all the difference. Reno adds extra comfort!
Michael StevensHappy Client
👉 Tap & Hold to Stop
Sheila is the best therapist I've ever had! Her down-to-earth approach helped me heal. Reno (the therapy dog) and her authenticity create a welcoming space.
Laurel SHappy Client
👉 Tap & Hold to Stop
EMDR changed my life. Sheila's flexible scheduling and tailored approach made recovery possible. The online portal simplified communication. Absolutely recommend.
Jessica WelshHappy Client
👉 Tap & Hold to Stop
The convenience of in-person/zoom sessions and responsive communication have impacted my daily life. Truly a safe place for growth.

Blogs

Discover helpful insights and strategies from Refreshing Waters to improve your relationships and personal well-being.

Free Tools

Explore our downloadable PDF guides and worksheets, or take self-assessment quizzes from Psychology Today to gain insights into your mental health and relationships.

Anxiety Test

Assess your anxiety levels and learn coping strategies

Depression Test

Evaluate symptoms of depression and when to seek help

Relationship Satisfaction Test

Measure the health and happiness of your relationship

Prolonged Grief Test

Understand if your grief may benefit from professional support

Emotion Regulation Test

Discover how well you manage your emotions

Attachment Style Test

Learn about your attachment style