Table 2.

Patients’ main themes, subthemes, and frequent codes.

Main themes and subthemes			Frequent codes
Generic theme
	Expectations
		Help	Treatment; alternative treatment; support with life events
		Group	Exchange; self-disclosure; mutual support; being connected to others; concerns about the group
		Intervention	Novelty and curiosity; tools against depression; a structured approach to addressing problems
	Appraisal of treatment
		Group	Cohesive entity; atmosphere; self-disclosure and discussion; preference over the platform
		Intervention	The shift of modalities; structure and composition; practical use
		Experience	Useful insights; positive over all experience
Theme specifically related to the investigated blended format
	Evaluation of blended format
		Advantages	Contemporary or innovative or engaging approach; transparency or flexibility of approach; blending supports treatment; reminder; enhances consolidation; helps group interaction
		Disadvantages	Diverging preferences; the importance of group; low usability; concerns regarding format; workshop-like
	Evaluation of blended components
		Advantages platform	Provides information; increases information processing; interactive; practical; clear structure; saves time for the group
		Advantages app	Reminder; transfer; documentation of mood or activities; awareness; insight or understanding
		Advantages in-session media	Guides therapists; provides information; supports therapists
		Disadvantages of all	Low usability of app or platform; does not suit everyone; too little tailoring of reminders; a sense of obligation or annoyance; discouragement due to noncompliance; suboptimal trainer behavior
	Structure and tailoring
		Structure	Positive appraisal of the structure; guiding thread; a systematic approach to work with; unmet needs
		Blending	Increased individuality; blending leads to the structure; risk of overload
	Self-disclosure and internet-based reinforcement
		Reinforcement	The increased presence of therapist; feedback motivates; personal feedback; support with exercises
		Self-disclosure	The extra path for self-disclosure; extra information for the therapist; group hinders self-disclosure
	Dynamic interplay of group and technology
		Preview or rework	Preview; rework; alignment; group increases compliance with Web-based elements
		Smoothing effect	Reduces undesired effects; group drift; domination
	Negative effects
		Therapist level	Therapist’s time management; therapist’s patient management
		Patient level	Restricted group interaction; noncompliance results in dissonance; low added value
		Technology	Design or technical or data safety issues