Worksheet
Anxiety: Uncertainty & Control
The Uncertainty and Control Worksheet helps clients manage anxious thoughts by exploring what’s within their control and releasing what’s not. Therapists can use this tool to support self-reflection, reduce emotional overwhelm, and guide clients toward greater clarity and calm when facing the unknown.
How to Use The Uncertainty and Control Worksheet
The Uncertainty and Control Worksheet helps clients explore anxious thoughts through the lens of control, a core concept in anxiety treatment. Therapists can guide clients through reflection prompts to reduce overwhelm, support grounding, and reframe uncertainty as manageable rather than threatening.
Who It’s For
This worksheet is ideal for clients struggling with chronic worry, uncertainty, or perfectionism. It’s especially useful for clients with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) or those who feel the need to control outcomes and benefit from structured, values-based reflection.
Expected Outcomes
- Greater emotional regulation in response to uncertainty
- Improved ability to differentiate between what is and isn’t controllable
- Reduction in worry-driven behaviors and mental looping
- Increased client insight and more focused, goal-oriented therapy sessions
Related Topics
References
Grupe, D. W., & Nitschke, J. B. (2013). Uncertainty and anticipation in anxiety: an integrated neurobiological and psychological perspective. Nature Reviews. Neuroscience, 14(7), 488–501. https://doi.org/10.1038/nrn3524
Frequently Asked Questions About Anxiety: Uncertainty & Control Resources
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