The cognitive model of depression assumes that cognition, behavior, and biochemistry are all important components of depressive disorders. Cognitive science research emphasizes the importance of information processing depressive symptomatology. According to these theories, negatively biased cognition is a core process in depression. This process is illustrated through the "cognitive triad of depression." Depressed clients typically have a view of themselves, on their environment, and their future. They may view themselves as worthless, inadequate, unlovable and deficient. Depressed clients view the environment as overwhelming, as presenting obstacles they cannot overcome. They typically distort their interpretations of events so that they maintain negative views of themselves, and the future.
             The therapist should posses a number of essential qualities in order to effectively run the group. First of all, the cognitive therapist should ideally demonstrate warmth, genuineness, sincerity, and openness, basically person centered characteristics. Second, the most effective cognitive therapists seem to be especially skilled at seeing events from their client's perspective. They are able to suspend their own personal assumptions and biases while they are listening to depressed client describe their reactions and interpretations. Third, skilled cognitive therapists can reason logically and plan strategies; they are not fuzzy thinkers. Cognitive therapists plan strategies several steps ahead. Finally, the best counselors that use this approach are active. They have to be comfortable with taking the lead, providing structure and direction to the therapy process. Basic cognitive therapy is a collaborative relationship between the group, the leader, and the other group members. Obviously, a sense of unity and cohesiveness has to develop. Thinking patterns and beliefs are challenged in this approach. The leader and the other member of the group h...