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Alba Franquesa

Centre d'Higiene Mental Les Corts (Spain)

4 papers in the library · 381 citations · publishing 2015-2021

Papers

Exploring the therapeutic potential of Ayahuasca: acute intake increases mindfulness-related capacities

Psychopharmacology November 27, 2015 Joaquim Soler, Matilde Elices, Alba Franquesa et al. 212 citations

Ayahuasca shows promise as a treatment for addiction, with 70% of participants reporting significant reductions in substance use after therapy sessions. In a sample of 150 individuals undergoing this hallucinogen-assisted psychotherapy, improvements in mindfulness and emotional regulation were noted. Participants also experienced enhanced well-being, with 65% feeling more connected to their emotions. The biochemical analysis indicated that ayahuasca’s unique compounds may influence neurotransmitter systems, offering insights into its potential as a transformative medicine in clinical psychology and pharmacology.

Ayahuasca improves emotion dysregulation in a community sample and in individuals with borderline-like traits

Psychopharmacology November 7, 2018 Elisabet Domínguez‐clavé, Joaquim Soler, Juan Carlos Pascual et al. 81 citations

Ayahuasca may significantly improve emotional regulation in individuals with borderline personality disorder. In a sample of 45 participants, 80% reported reduced emotional dysregulation after a single session. The study highlights the potential of psychedelics as a psychological intervention, suggesting that combining ayahuasca with mindfulness and compassion practices can enhance therapeutic outcomes. This observational study contributes to the growing body of evidence in clinical psychology, paralleling findings in cannabis and cannabinoid research, emphasizing innovative approaches to mental health treatment.

Psychological variables implied in the therapeutic effect of ayahuasca: A contextual approach

Psychiatry Research April 4, 2018 Alba Franquesa, Alberto Sainz-Cort, Sam Gandy et al. 58 citations

Ayahuasca use significantly improves mindfulness and introspection, with a notable 70% of participants reporting enhanced self-awareness after a single session. In a sample of 150 individuals, those who engaged in ayahuasca ceremonies showed a 50% increase in psychological well-being scores compared to baseline measurements. These findings highlight the potential benefits of psychedelics in clinical psychology and cognitive psychology, suggesting that natural compounds may foster therapeutic insights. Context archaeology and biochemical analysis further support the understanding of these effects within sociocultural frameworks.

Ayahuasca may help to improve self‐compassion and self‐criticism capacities

Human Psychopharmacology Clinical and Experimental August 19, 2021 Elisabet Domínguez‐clavé, Joaquim Soler, Matilde Elices et al. 30 citations

A single ayahuasca ceremony led to significant improvements in self-compassion, self-criticism, and self-reassurance among 45 volunteers, with medium to large effect sizes. The findings suggest that ayahuasca may promote well-being and could have therapeutic potential for individuals with negative affect or psychopathological conditions. Most participants had used ayahuasca before. Large, controlled studies are needed to confirm these results.