20+
Years of ExperienceTrusted Expertise in Counseling
#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
75%
Success RateData From American Psychiatric Association Shows that 75 percent of people who receive psychotherapy saw improvements in their emotional and psychological well-being.
30,000+
In-Person & Online Sessions CompletedCompleted 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...
Learn More
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...
Learn More
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...
Learn More
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...
Learn More
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...
Learn More
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,...
Learn More
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...
Learn More
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...
Learn More
Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)
Heal with EFT
Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) is a short-term, structured approach grounded in attachment theory — the understanding that our deepest need...
Learn More
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...
Learn More
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,...
Learn More
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,...
Learn More
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...
Learn More
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....
Learn More
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...
Learn More
PTSD
Restore a Sense of Safety
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) develops when the nervous system stays on alert long after the danger has passed. Symptoms include...
Learn More
OCD
Break the Cycle
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) involves intrusive, unwanted thoughts and the rituals or mental routines performed to relieve the anxiety they create....
Learn More
Emotional Abuse
Rebuild Trust in Yourself
Emotional abuse is harm done without bruises — criticism, control, manipulation, isolation, and the steady erosion of your confidence in...
Learn More
Healthcare Professionals & First Responder Stress
Make Space to Rest and Recover
Healthcare professionals and first responders spend their working lives absorbing other people's worst days, often with nowhere to set it...
Learn More
Contact
Refreshing Waters
Refreshing Waters is currently accepting new clients. Availabile for online and in-person sessions.
Our Story
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.
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, CAADCI 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.
Learn More about Sheila BurnsI 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.
Stacie Johnson
LMSWStacie 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.
Learn More about Stacie Johnson
Tyson Brown
LPCMy 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.
Learn More about Tyson BrownOn 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.
Jillian LaDoux
LCSWJillian 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.
Learn More about Jillian LaDoux
Elliot Ha
LLMSWElliot Ha is a compassionate counselor who brings a thoughtful, grounded presence into the therapy space. He believes healing happens when people feel genuinely understood and supported, not rushed or judged. Elliot is deeply committed to helping individuals and couples navigate life's challenges with clarity, resilience, and hope.
Learn More about Elliot Ha
Denise Hubbard
LMSWDenise Hubbard is a Licensed Master Social Worker with over five years of experience supporting individuals and couples through trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, stress, and life transitions. She is especially passionate about working with healthcare professionals and first responders, and offers Christian counseling when requested.
Learn More about Denise Hubbard
Reno
Therapy Dog & Certified CutieHi, 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!
Learn More about RenoTestimonials
- 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.
Our Books
Discover transformative insights through our carefully crafted books that blend professional expertise with personal healing journeys. Each work offers practical wisdom for overcoming life's challenges and finding spiritual triumph.
Blogs
Discover helpful insights and strategies from Refreshing Waters to improve your relationships and personal well-being.
How to Recognize and End Unhealthy Relationships: A Guide to Protecting Your Peace and Reclaiming Your Life
Not every relationship is meant to last forever. Some relationships come into our lives for a season, some for shaping, and some for stretching. But others—if left unaddressed—can quietly drain our peace, distort our identity, and suffocate the God-given calling inside us. Unhealthy relationships don’t always announce themselves loudly. Sometimes they start beautifully, even spiritually, […]
Sheila Burns
Author
How Healthy Are Your Boundaries? Take the Boundaries Quiz to Find Out
If you feel guilty saying no, or anxious after you finally do, that’s not a moral failure — it’s often a signal. Many people carry family rules, spiritual beliefs, or survival habits that make clear limits feel risky. This post is a short, practical place to notice those patterns and choose one small change. Quick […]
Sheila Burns
Author
Why Rest Feels Uncomfortable: Understanding the Guilt Behind Stillness
As someone who finds joy in hiking off the beaten path, I’ve often noticed a powerful parallel between nature and our inner lives. When you first step away from the road and onto a quiet trail, the noise of the world doesn’t vanish immediately. Your mind is often still buzzing with traffic, emails, and to-do […]
Sheila Burns
Author
Healing Through the Word: How Scripture Supports Emotional Restoration
Emotional pain doesn’t always leave visible scars, but its impact can ripple through every area of our lives—relationships, health, sleep, decision-making, and even our faith. In the face of anxiety, grief, trauma, or depression, many wonder where to turn. While therapy, support systems, and healthy habits are important tools, Christians also find deep comfort and […]
Sheila Burns
Author
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
Boundaries Test
Evaluate how well you set and maintain personal boundaries
Forgiveness Test
Assess your capacity to forgive yourself and others
PTSD Test
Screen for symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder
Do I Need Therapy?
Help determine if professional counseling could benefit you
Couples With Kids Relationship Health
Evaluate your relationship satisfaction as parents
Resilience Test
Measure your ability to bounce back from life's challenges
30 Days of Gratefulness
Daily prompts to cultivate gratitude over a month.
Boundaries Quiz (PDF)
Assess your personal boundaries with this downloadable quiz.
Daily Gratitude Diary
A printable diary page to practice daily gratitude.
GAD-7 Anxiety Quiz (PDF)
Downloadable GAD-7 quiz to screen for generalized anxiety.
PHQ-9 Depression Quiz (PDF)
Downloadable PHQ-9 quiz to screen for depression symptoms.
Prioritizing Relationships
Guide to help prioritize and nurture healthy connections.
Quirky Gratitude Prompts
Unconventional prompts to spark gratitude.
Self-Care Assessment (PDF)
Evaluate your self-care practices with this quiz.
The Power of Saying NO
Learn the importance of setting boundaries by saying no.
Power of Words Reflection
Reflective questions on the impact of your words.
Extroversion-Introversion Test
Discover where you fall on the extroversion-introversion spectrum
Explore More Free Tests
Explore the entire list of free tests on Psychology Today
Hours
Monday - Friday
8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. EST
Contact
+17347943777
Healing flows not from Rushing forward,
but from returning to what was silenced
Refreshing Waters © Copyright 2024. All Rights Reserved. Credits to freepik for media www.freepik.com People illustrations by StorysetPrivacy Policy & Terms of Service