As a way of simplifying the cognitive model to facilitate a more rapid formulation of a case, Dr. Aaron Beck has proposed a generic cognitive model model. Dr. Beck has applied this model to a host of difficult presentations ranging from bipolar depression to hallucinations to everyday problems like procrastination.

Dr. Beck explains that it is possible to simplify the complete cognitive model by consolidating the various processes into a cognitive-behavioral triad. This procedure can provide a quick snap shot of a selected condition sparing the necessity for spelling out each of the variables.