Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) is a group intervention that reduces psychological symptoms, but which specific aspects of the practice drive those improvements is unclear. A new measure of mindfulness practice quality (PQ-M) was validated using exploratory factor analysis with 99 participants, showing a two-factor structure. In a smaller subsample of 19 participants, changes in practice quality over the course of MBSR were linked to reductions in psychological symptoms. Although exploratory, the findings suggest that the quality of mindfulness practice, not just its quantity, may be a relevant factor for improving outcomes and could help instructors tailor interventions.
The therapeutic alliance—the quality of the relationship between therapist and patient—is as crucial to positive outcomes in psychedelic-assisted therapy as the drug itself. A strong bond and human connection during the psychotherapy component of treatment are essential for profound healing and beneficial results, suggesting that the interpersonal context matters as much as the pharmacological agent.