The Worry Tree
A CBT worry management worksheet with an illustrated worry tree flowchart and a table for sorting worries and planning actions or let-go strategies.
1-page fillable PDF · US Letter (prints on A4) · CBT · Worry management
- Approach / concern
- Anxiety & Panic
- Technique
- CBT · Worry management
- Format
- Fillable PDF, 1 page (US Letter / A4)
- Access
- Pro and Advanced plans (3-day free trial)
- For
- Licensed clinicians to use with clients
- Updated
- October 2026
Key facts
What is the The Worry Tree?
The worry tree is a CBT decision-making tool, described by Butler and Hope, that guides people through noticing a worry, asking whether anything can be done, and either making an action plan or letting the worry go and refocusing.
Why it works
Distinguishing solvable from unsolvable worries and responding differently to each is central to CBT for generalized anxiety (Dugas & Robichaud, 2007). The flowchart format is easy to remember (Butler & Hope, 2007).
When to use it
- Generalized anxiety and chronic worry
- Teens and adults
- Alongside worry time
- Groups and psychoeducation
How to use it in session
- Walk through the tree with an example.
- Sort current worries using the table.
- Make specific plans for actionable worries.
- Practise letting go and refocusing for others.
- Review regularly.
Clinician tips
- Letting go is a skill; pair with defusion or mindfulness.
- Plans should be concrete and time-bound.
- Keep a copy on the fridge or phone.
Worked example
Sharing with clients
Members can download the PDF to print or email, or copy a private client link from the download box. Your client opens the link and downloads the worksheet on any device. No client account is needed, and nothing your client writes is stored on TherapyAid.
Frequently asked questions
What if I can partly act on a worry?
Plan for the part you can act on, and let go of the rest.
Who created the worry tree?
It was described by Gillian Butler and Tony Hope in their self-help book on mental fitness.
References
Butler, G., & Hope, T. (2007). Manage your mind: The mental fitness guide (2nd ed.). Oxford University Press.
Dugas, M. J., & Robichaud, M. (2007). Cognitive-behavioral treatment for generalized anxiety disorder: From science to practice. Routledge.
This worksheet is an educational tool for use by, or under the guidance of, a licensed or registered mental-health professional. It is not a diagnostic instrument or a substitute for clinical judgement. If a client is in crisis in Canada, call or text 9-8-8 or call 9-1-1.
