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DocumentFinal report - Clinical parapsychology: Counselling experiences of clients who report anomalous experiences and the training needs of therapists2015

Reference code: PT/FB
Entity holding: BIAL Foundation
Location: S. Mamede do Coronado
Title:
BIAL Foundation Archive
Start date: 1994
History:
The BIAL Foundation was created in 1994 by Laboratórios BIAL in conjunction with the Council of Rectors of Portuguese Universities. BIAL’s Foundation mission is to foster the scientific study of Man from both the physical and spiritual perspectives.
Along the years the BIAL Foundation has developed an important relationship with the scientific community, first in Portugal and after worldwide. Today it is an institution of reference which aims to stimulate new researches that may help people, promote more health and contribute to new milestones to gain access to knowledge.
Among its activities the BIAL Foundation manages the BIAL Award, created in 1984, one of the most important awards in the Health field in Europe. The BIAL Award rewards both the basic and the clinical research distinguishing works of major impact in medical research.
The BIAL Foundation also assigns Scientific Research Scholarships for the study of neurophysiological and mental health in people, arousing the interest of researchers in the areas of Psychophysiology and Parapsychology.
To date the BIAL Foundation has supported 461 projects, more than 1000 researchers, with research groups in twenty-seven countries, resulting, until April 2013, in about 600 full papers, out of which 172 published in indexed international journals with an average impact factor of 3.6 and a substantial number of citations (1665).
Since 1996 the BIAL Foundation organizes the Symposia entitled "Behind and Beyond the Brain", a Forum that gathers well renowned neurosciences speakers and the BIAL Foundation Fellows which are spread around the world.
Classified as an institution of public utility, the BIAL Foundation includes among its patrons the Portuguese President, the Portuguese Universities Rectors' Council and the Portuguese Medical Association.
URL: http://www.bial.com/pt/
Accessibility: By permission

Reference code: PT/FB/BL
Entity holding: BIAL Foundation
Title: BIAL Grants
Start date: 1994
History:
In 1994 the BIAL Foundation launched a programme of science research grants with the aim of encouraging the research into Man’s physical and mental processes, namely in fields still largely unexplored but which warrant further scientific analysis, as Psychophysiology and Parapsychology.
Since its launch, applications to the BIAL grants have been increasing. Up to now 461 projects have been supported, involving more than 1000 researchers from 27 countries.
The approved applications have benefited from grants in amounts comprised between €5,000 and €50, 000. The amount to be granted is fixed by the Scientific board according to the needs of each project.
The supported projects have originated, until April 2013, in about 600 full papers, 172 out of which were published in indexed international journals with an average impact factor of 3.6 and a substantial number of citations (1665).
Among the BIAL Foundation fellows is worth highlighting the presence of scientists from prestigious universities from the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Russia, Germany, Japan, France, Canada, and many others.
The BIAL grants are promoted biannually.

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2012
Location: SEC PCA
Title:
2012 Grants
Start date: 2013-02

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2012-108
Location: Arquivo PCA - Pasta 8/2012
Title:
108 - Clinical parapsychology: Counselling experiences of clients who report anomalous experiences and the training needs of therapists
Duration: 2013-07 - 2015-10
Researcher(s):
Elizabeth Roxburgh
Institution(s): Centre for the Study of Anomalous Psychological Processes (CSAPP), Division of Psychology, School of Social Sciences,The University of Northampton (UK)
Contents: Contents:
Bursary agreement
Application form
Correspondence
Progress report
Final report
2 Articles (submitted)
Language: eng
Author:
Roxburgh, E. C.
Number of reproductions:
2
Keywords:
Parapsychology / Anomalous cognition/experiences / Intervention

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2012-108.01
Location: Arquivo PCA - Pasta 8/2012
Title:
Final report - Clinical parapsychology: Counselling experiences of clients who report anomalous experiences and the training needs of therapists
Publication year: 2015
URL:
https://www.bial.com/imagem/Grant10812.pdf
Abstract/Results: ABSTRACT:
OBJECTIVES
To investigate 1) the experiences of clients who have reported anomalous experiences (AEs) in secular counselling services, 2) the experiences of therapists who work with such clients, and 3) the training needs of students.
METHODS
Questionnaires were used to investigate the range and incidence of AEs, interviews were conducted with clients and therapists, and an online survey and focus groups explored the training needs of students.
RESULTS
Few clients reported AEs in a secular counselling service over a one-year period (N= 8). Consequently, an additional study was undertaken on help-seeking for AEs (i.e., if individuals do not seek support from counselling services, where do they seek support or do they not seek support?).When clients did seek counselling the majority of participants we interviewed said that they felt dismissed when they tried to discuss AEs or reported that their counsellor did not take into account their worldview. Therapists reflected on how clients are often reluctant to disclose AEs to them for fear of being seen as ‘mad’. They emphasised the importance of exploring the meaning with clients rather than imposing an explanation or making a judgement as to the authenticity of AEs. Most of the students that took part in the focus groups felt that they were unequipped to work with clients who reported AEs and stated that they had not received any training on these issues.
CONCLUSIONS
Findings have implications for clients in terms of accessibility of services, engagement with therapy, and psychological adjustment following AEs. It would be useful for therapists to have reliable and accurate information about AEs and/or for students to be introduced to the topic whilst undertaking training.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Copyright/Reproduction:
By permission
Language:
eng
Author:
Roxburgh, E. C.
Secondary author(s):
Evenden, R.
Document type:
Final report
Number of reproductions:
2
Indexed document:
No
Keywords: Anomalous experiences / Clinical parapsychology / Counselling/psychotherapy / Thematic analysis / Qualitative methods
Document"They daren't tell people": Therapists experiences of working with clients who report anomalous experiences2016

Reference code: PT/FB
Entity holding: BIAL Foundation
Location: S. Mamede do Coronado
Title:
BIAL Foundation Archive
Start date: 1994
History:
The BIAL Foundation was created in 1994 by Laboratórios BIAL in conjunction with the Council of Rectors of Portuguese Universities. BIAL’s Foundation mission is to foster the scientific study of Man from both the physical and spiritual perspectives.
Along the years the BIAL Foundation has developed an important relationship with the scientific community, first in Portugal and after worldwide. Today it is an institution of reference which aims to stimulate new researches that may help people, promote more health and contribute to new milestones to gain access to knowledge.
Among its activities the BIAL Foundation manages the BIAL Award, created in 1984, one of the most important awards in the Health field in Europe. The BIAL Award rewards both the basic and the clinical research distinguishing works of major impact in medical research.
The BIAL Foundation also assigns Scientific Research Scholarships for the study of neurophysiological and mental health in people, arousing the interest of researchers in the areas of Psychophysiology and Parapsychology.
To date the BIAL Foundation has supported 461 projects, more than 1000 researchers, with research groups in twenty-seven countries, resulting, until April 2013, in about 600 full papers, out of which 172 published in indexed international journals with an average impact factor of 3.6 and a substantial number of citations (1665).
Since 1996 the BIAL Foundation organizes the Symposia entitled "Behind and Beyond the Brain", a Forum that gathers well renowned neurosciences speakers and the BIAL Foundation Fellows which are spread around the world.
Classified as an institution of public utility, the BIAL Foundation includes among its patrons the Portuguese President, the Portuguese Universities Rectors' Council and the Portuguese Medical Association.
URL: http://www.bial.com/pt/
Accessibility: By permission

Reference code: PT/FB/BL
Entity holding: BIAL Foundation
Title: BIAL Grants
Start date: 1994
History:
In 1994 the BIAL Foundation launched a programme of science research grants with the aim of encouraging the research into Man’s physical and mental processes, namely in fields still largely unexplored but which warrant further scientific analysis, as Psychophysiology and Parapsychology.
Since its launch, applications to the BIAL grants have been increasing. Up to now 461 projects have been supported, involving more than 1000 researchers from 27 countries.
The approved applications have benefited from grants in amounts comprised between €5,000 and €50, 000. The amount to be granted is fixed by the Scientific board according to the needs of each project.
The supported projects have originated, until April 2013, in about 600 full papers, 172 out of which were published in indexed international journals with an average impact factor of 3.6 and a substantial number of citations (1665).
Among the BIAL Foundation fellows is worth highlighting the presence of scientists from prestigious universities from the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Russia, Germany, Japan, France, Canada, and many others.
The BIAL grants are promoted biannually.

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2012
Location: SEC PCA
Title:
2012 Grants
Start date: 2013-02

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2012-108
Location: Arquivo PCA - Pasta 8/2012
Title:
108 - Clinical parapsychology: Counselling experiences of clients who report anomalous experiences and the training needs of therapists
Duration: 2013-07 - 2015-10
Researcher(s):
Elizabeth Roxburgh
Institution(s): Centre for the Study of Anomalous Psychological Processes (CSAPP), Division of Psychology, School of Social Sciences,The University of Northampton (UK)
Contents: Contents:
Bursary agreement
Application form
Correspondence
Progress report
Final report
2 Articles (submitted)
Language: eng
Author:
Roxburgh, E. C.
Number of reproductions:
2
Keywords:
Parapsychology / Anomalous cognition/experiences / Intervention

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2012-108.04
Location: Arquivo PCA - Pasta 8/2012
Title:
"They daren't tell people": Therapists experiences of working with clients who report anomalous experiences
Publication year: 2016
URL:
http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/13642537.2016.1170059?journalCode=rejp20
Abstract/Results: ABSTRACT:
OBJECTIVES
This study explored the experiences of therapists who have worked with clients reporting anomalous experiences (AEs) to consider how they addressed such issues in therapy sessions. An AE is defined as ‘an uncommon experience (e.g. synesthesia) or one that, although it may be experienced by a significant number of persons (e.g. psi experiences), is believed to deviate from ordinary experience or from the usually accepted explanations of reality according to Western mainstream science’.
METHOD
Semi-structured face-to-face interviews were conducted with eight therapists who had worked with at least one client who had reported an AE in therapy. An inductive thematic analysis was conducted on transcripts.
RESULTS
Four themes were derived from participants’ data, which were labelled using short participant extracts: ‘Testing the waters’, ‘Exploration not explanation’, ‘It’s special but it’s not unique’ and ‘Forewarned and forearmed’.
CONCLUSIONS
Participants felt that clients were apprehensive about disclosure of AEs due to fears about how AEs might be interpreted. Findings highlight the importance of therapists exploring the meaning of AEs with clients, rather than imposing an explanation and having access to accurate and reliable information about AEs.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Copyright/Reproduction:
By permission
Language:
eng
Author:
Roxburgh, E. C.
Secondary author(s):
Evenden, R.
Document type:
Article
Number of reproductions:
2
Reference:
Roxburgh, E. C., & Evenden, R. E. (2016). “They daren’t tell people”: Therapists experiences of working with clients who report anomalous experiences [Special Issue: ‘What is paranormal: Some implications for the psychological therapies?’]. European Journal of Psychotherapy and Counselling, 18, 123-141. https://doi.org/10.1080/13642537.2016.1170059
2-year Impact Factor: N/A
Impact factor notes: Impact factor only available since 2022
Times cited: 12|2025-09-16
Indexed document: Yes
Quartile: N/A
Keywords: Anomalous experiences / Client / Counsellor / Therapist / Thematic analysis
DocumentLatest research on Anomalous Experiences (AEs) 2016

Reference code: PT/FB
Entity holding: BIAL Foundation
Location: S. Mamede do Coronado
Title:
BIAL Foundation Archive
Start date: 1994
History:
The BIAL Foundation was created in 1994 by Laboratórios BIAL in conjunction with the Council of Rectors of Portuguese Universities. BIAL’s Foundation mission is to foster the scientific study of Man from both the physical and spiritual perspectives.
Along the years the BIAL Foundation has developed an important relationship with the scientific community, first in Portugal and after worldwide. Today it is an institution of reference which aims to stimulate new researches that may help people, promote more health and contribute to new milestones to gain access to knowledge.
Among its activities the BIAL Foundation manages the BIAL Award, created in 1984, one of the most important awards in the Health field in Europe. The BIAL Award rewards both the basic and the clinical research distinguishing works of major impact in medical research.
The BIAL Foundation also assigns Scientific Research Scholarships for the study of neurophysiological and mental health in people, arousing the interest of researchers in the areas of Psychophysiology and Parapsychology.
To date the BIAL Foundation has supported 461 projects, more than 1000 researchers, with research groups in twenty-seven countries, resulting, until April 2013, in about 600 full papers, out of which 172 published in indexed international journals with an average impact factor of 3.6 and a substantial number of citations (1665).
Since 1996 the BIAL Foundation organizes the Symposia entitled "Behind and Beyond the Brain", a Forum that gathers well renowned neurosciences speakers and the BIAL Foundation Fellows which are spread around the world.
Classified as an institution of public utility, the BIAL Foundation includes among its patrons the Portuguese President, the Portuguese Universities Rectors' Council and the Portuguese Medical Association.
URL: http://www.bial.com/pt/
Accessibility: By permission

Reference code: PT/FB/BL
Entity holding: BIAL Foundation
Title: BIAL Grants
Start date: 1994
History:
In 1994 the BIAL Foundation launched a programme of science research grants with the aim of encouraging the research into Man’s physical and mental processes, namely in fields still largely unexplored but which warrant further scientific analysis, as Psychophysiology and Parapsychology.
Since its launch, applications to the BIAL grants have been increasing. Up to now 461 projects have been supported, involving more than 1000 researchers from 27 countries.
The approved applications have benefited from grants in amounts comprised between €5,000 and €50, 000. The amount to be granted is fixed by the Scientific board according to the needs of each project.
The supported projects have originated, until April 2013, in about 600 full papers, 172 out of which were published in indexed international journals with an average impact factor of 3.6 and a substantial number of citations (1665).
Among the BIAL Foundation fellows is worth highlighting the presence of scientists from prestigious universities from the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Russia, Germany, Japan, France, Canada, and many others.
The BIAL grants are promoted biannually.

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2012
Location: SEC PCA
Title:
2012 Grants
Start date: 2013-02

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2012-108
Location: Arquivo PCA - Pasta 8/2012
Title:
108 - Clinical parapsychology: Counselling experiences of clients who report anomalous experiences and the training needs of therapists
Duration: 2013-07 - 2015-10
Researcher(s):
Elizabeth Roxburgh
Institution(s): Centre for the Study of Anomalous Psychological Processes (CSAPP), Division of Psychology, School of Social Sciences,The University of Northampton (UK)
Contents: Contents:
Bursary agreement
Application form
Correspondence
Progress report
Final report
2 Articles (submitted)
Language: eng
Author:
Roxburgh, E. C.
Number of reproductions:
2
Keywords:
Parapsychology / Anomalous cognition/experiences / Intervention

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2012-108.10
Location: Arquivo PCA - Pasta 8/2012
Title:
Latest research on Anomalous Experiences (AEs)
Publication year: 2016
URL:
http://spiritualcrisisnetwork.uk/dr-elizabeth-roxburgh-presents-latest-research/
Abstract/Results: ABSTRACT:
Surveys have consistently shown that a high proportion of the general population believe in or experience anomalous experiences (AEs), which have been defined as those that ‘depart from our own familiar personal experiences or from the more usual, ordinary, and expected experiences of a given culture and time’ (Braud, 2010, p.1).
Anomalous experiences can occur after negative life events and common reactions can include fear, anxiety, depression, and distress. Individuals may also have existential questions following the experience and some people report health and wellbeing benefits associated with AEs, and experience profound personal transformation and enhanced human potential as a result.
However, AEs are often interpreted as symptoms of a ‘mental disorder’ within the Western medical model of illness and cultural and spiritual explanatory models of psychological wellbeing tend to be dismissed.
I am critical of reductionist approaches to mental health and have a vision for a system that is more diverse and less pathologising; one that is open to different viewpoints and provides an integrative and holistic approach to supporting individuals who are trying to make sense of their AEs.
I also believe that there is a need to research the actual impact or interpretation of anomalous experiences and my aims have been to increase our understanding of these experiences as psychological, social, and cultural events.
In my talk I will report research that I have recently conducted which explored the experiences of clients who have reported AEs in secular counselling services, the experiences of therapists who have worked with clients reporting AEs, and the training needs of students.
Findings have implications for accessibility of services, engagement with therapy, and psychological adjustment following anomalous experiences since clients felt closed down when they tried to discuss AEs or reported that their therapist did not take into account their worldview.
Accessibility: Document does not exist in file
Language:
eng
Author:
Roxburgh, E. C.
Document type:
Online abstract
Number of reproductions:
2
Reference:
Roxburgh, E. C. (2016, May). Latest research on anomalous experiences. Invited talk at the UK Spiritual Crisis Network 2nd International conference. ‘Mending the Gap: Global collaboration towards a more humanistic understanding of mental health and anomalous experiences’, University of Westminster.
Indexed document: No
Keywords: Anomalous experiences / Clinical parapsychology / Counselling/psychotherapy / Thematic analysis / Qualitative methods
DocumentA qualitative exploratory analysis of channeled content2020

Reference code: PT/FB
Entity holding: BIAL Foundation
Location: S. Mamede do Coronado
Title:
BIAL Foundation Archive
Start date: 1994
History:
The BIAL Foundation was created in 1994 by Laboratórios BIAL in conjunction with the Council of Rectors of Portuguese Universities. BIAL’s Foundation mission is to foster the scientific study of Man from both the physical and spiritual perspectives.
Along the years the BIAL Foundation has developed an important relationship with the scientific community, first in Portugal and after worldwide. Today it is an institution of reference which aims to stimulate new researches that may help people, promote more health and contribute to new milestones to gain access to knowledge.
Among its activities the BIAL Foundation manages the BIAL Award, created in 1984, one of the most important awards in the Health field in Europe. The BIAL Award rewards both the basic and the clinical research distinguishing works of major impact in medical research.
The BIAL Foundation also assigns Scientific Research Scholarships for the study of neurophysiological and mental health in people, arousing the interest of researchers in the areas of Psychophysiology and Parapsychology.
To date the BIAL Foundation has supported 461 projects, more than 1000 researchers, with research groups in twenty-seven countries, resulting, until April 2013, in about 600 full papers, out of which 172 published in indexed international journals with an average impact factor of 3.6 and a substantial number of citations (1665).
Since 1996 the BIAL Foundation organizes the Symposia entitled "Behind and Beyond the Brain", a Forum that gathers well renowned neurosciences speakers and the BIAL Foundation Fellows which are spread around the world.
Classified as an institution of public utility, the BIAL Foundation includes among its patrons the Portuguese President, the Portuguese Universities Rectors' Council and the Portuguese Medical Association.
URL: http://www.bial.com/pt/
Accessibility: By permission

Reference code: PT/FB/BL
Entity holding: BIAL Foundation
Title: BIAL Grants
Start date: 1994
History:
In 1994 the BIAL Foundation launched a programme of science research grants with the aim of encouraging the research into Man’s physical and mental processes, namely in fields still largely unexplored but which warrant further scientific analysis, as Psychophysiology and Parapsychology.
Since its launch, applications to the BIAL grants have been increasing. Up to now 461 projects have been supported, involving more than 1000 researchers from 27 countries.
The approved applications have benefited from grants in amounts comprised between €5,000 and €50, 000. The amount to be granted is fixed by the Scientific board according to the needs of each project.
The supported projects have originated, until April 2013, in about 600 full papers, 172 out of which were published in indexed international journals with an average impact factor of 3.6 and a substantial number of citations (1665).
Among the BIAL Foundation fellows is worth highlighting the presence of scientists from prestigious universities from the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Russia, Germany, Japan, France, Canada, and many others.
The BIAL grants are promoted biannually.

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2016
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
2016 Grants
Start date: 2017-01

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2016-072
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
072 - A physiological examination of full-trance channeling
Duration: 2017-09 - 2019-03
Researcher(s):
Helané Wahbeh, Arnaud Delorme
Institution(s): Institute of Noetic Sciences, Petaluma, California (USA)
Contents: Contents:
Application form
Correspondence
Progress report
Final report
Articles
Author: Wahbeh, H.
Number of reproductions:
3
Keywords:
Channeling / Physiology / Mechanism / Mediumship / Parapsychology and Psychophysiology

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2016-072.03
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
A qualitative exploratory analysis of channeled content
Publication year: 2020
URL:
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1550830720300896
Abstract/Results: ABSTRACT:
Throughout history, within numerous multicultural contexts across the globe, channeling has been expressed, practiced, revered and shunned. Broadly defined, channeling is “communication of information to or through a physically embodied human being, from a source that is said to exist on some other level or dimension of reality than the physical as we know it, and that is not from the normal mind…of the channel” (Klimo, 1998, p.2). Despite its persistence and presence across time, the enigmatic, speculative nature of channeling creates a unique research challenge. Historically, scientific channeling research tends to minimize attention on the actual channeled material, in part due to validation constraints. The focus of this qualitative exploration was to categorize and thematically analyze content channeled during the final segment of a trance channeling study. Recorded over two days, 13 healthy adult trance channels responded to the question, "Do you have any suggestions/messages regarding the current or future channeling experiments?" Transcribed content analysis revealed seven common themes under three categories – Scientific Methodology: 1) Constraints of the current quantitative study, 2) Advancing channeling research; Channeling Processes: 3) 'How-to' of channeling, 4) Experienced processes described from the “non-physical being's” point-of-view; Open-Ended Information: 5) Philosophical - personal to global to universal, 6) Gratitude and Collaborative spirit, and 7) Personal messages for healing/growth. Themes 2 and 6 were the most represented content of messages delivered. This analysis was designed to present the experiences of the channelers, how that might be interpreted and to provide global access to the potentially valuable content.
Accessibility: Document does not exist in file
Language:
eng
Author:
Anastasia, J.
Secondary author(s):
Delorme, A., Okonsky, J., Wahbeh, H.
Document type:
Article
Number of reproductions:
3
Reference:
Anastasia, J., Delorme, A., Okonsky, J., Wahbeh, H. (2020). A qualitative exploratory analysis of channeled content. Explore: The Journal of Science and Healing, 16(4), 231-236. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.explore.2020.02.008
2-year Impact Factor: 1.775|2020
Times cited: 2|2025-09-18
Indexed document: Yes
Quartile: Q3
Keywords: Research channelers / Trance channeling / Channeled content / Thematic analysis
DocumentMy brain is cool: A thematic analysis of exceptional experiences among sceptics2019

Reference code: PT/FB
Entity holding: BIAL Foundation
Location: S. Mamede do Coronado
Title:
BIAL Foundation Archive
Start date: 1994
History:
The BIAL Foundation was created in 1994 by Laboratórios BIAL in conjunction with the Council of Rectors of Portuguese Universities. BIAL’s Foundation mission is to foster the scientific study of Man from both the physical and spiritual perspectives.
Along the years the BIAL Foundation has developed an important relationship with the scientific community, first in Portugal and after worldwide. Today it is an institution of reference which aims to stimulate new researches that may help people, promote more health and contribute to new milestones to gain access to knowledge.
Among its activities the BIAL Foundation manages the BIAL Award, created in 1984, one of the most important awards in the Health field in Europe. The BIAL Award rewards both the basic and the clinical research distinguishing works of major impact in medical research.
The BIAL Foundation also assigns Scientific Research Scholarships for the study of neurophysiological and mental health in people, arousing the interest of researchers in the areas of Psychophysiology and Parapsychology.
To date the BIAL Foundation has supported 461 projects, more than 1000 researchers, with research groups in twenty-seven countries, resulting, until April 2013, in about 600 full papers, out of which 172 published in indexed international journals with an average impact factor of 3.6 and a substantial number of citations (1665).
Since 1996 the BIAL Foundation organizes the Symposia entitled "Behind and Beyond the Brain", a Forum that gathers well renowned neurosciences speakers and the BIAL Foundation Fellows which are spread around the world.
Classified as an institution of public utility, the BIAL Foundation includes among its patrons the Portuguese President, the Portuguese Universities Rectors' Council and the Portuguese Medical Association.
URL: http://www.bial.com/pt/
Accessibility: By permission

Reference code: PT/FB/BL
Entity holding: BIAL Foundation
Title: BIAL Grants
Start date: 1994
History:
In 1994 the BIAL Foundation launched a programme of science research grants with the aim of encouraging the research into Man’s physical and mental processes, namely in fields still largely unexplored but which warrant further scientific analysis, as Psychophysiology and Parapsychology.
Since its launch, applications to the BIAL grants have been increasing. Up to now 461 projects have been supported, involving more than 1000 researchers from 27 countries.
The approved applications have benefited from grants in amounts comprised between €5,000 and €50, 000. The amount to be granted is fixed by the Scientific board according to the needs of each project.
The supported projects have originated, until April 2013, in about 600 full papers, 172 out of which were published in indexed international journals with an average impact factor of 3.6 and a substantial number of citations (1665).
Among the BIAL Foundation fellows is worth highlighting the presence of scientists from prestigious universities from the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Russia, Germany, Japan, France, Canada, and many others.
The BIAL grants are promoted biannually.

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2012
Location: SEC PCA
Title:
2012 Grants
Start date: 2013-02

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2012-272
Location: Arquivo PCA - Pastas 17 e 18/2012
Title:
272 - Exploring the interactions between paranormal belief and disbelief and subjective experiences with the Shakti helmet
Duration: 2013-09 - 2016-12
Researcher(s):
Christine Simmonds-Moore, Don Rice, Ron Hopkins, Richard LaFleur, Chase O’Gwin
Institution(s): Psychology Department, University of West Georgia, Carrollton (USA)
Contents: Contents:
Bursary agreement
Application form
Correspondence
Progress reports
Final report
Language: eng
Author:
Simmonds-Moore, C.
Secondary author(s):
Rice, D., Hopkins, R., LaFleur, R.
Number of reproductions:
2
Keywords:
Parapsychology / Paranormal belief / Anomalous cognition/experiences

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2012-272.05
Location: Arquivo PCA - Pastas 17 e 18/2012
Title:
My brain is cool: A thematic analysis of exceptional experiences among sceptics
Publication year: 2019
URL:
https://web.a.ebscohost.com/abstract?direct=true&profile=ehost&scope=site&authtype=crawler&jrnl=00379751&AN=139109615&h=9te%2bhlLpQtp3Jxm1G7%2biCaDl2Fxl7VWvq2LDajUaXvuhAkBtMQg72g8CyfD60%2fu8m6YIjuZovHch9AUDrWd2nQ%3d%3d&crl=f&resultNs=AdminWebAuth&resultLocal=ErrCrlNotAuth&crlhashurl=login.aspx%3fdirect%3dtrue%26profile%3dehost%26scope%3dsite%26authtype%3dcrawler%26jrnl%3d00379751%26AN%3d139109615
Abstract/Results: ABSTRACT:
Disbelief in paranormal phenomena has been relatively under-researched in the literature. Thirty-three strong disbelievers participated in a laboratory study designed to encourage exceptional experiences (ExE). Participants relaxed under sensory deprivation conditions on three occasions. On two out of three occasions, they wore a sham head device, which has been previously associated with ExE. Twenty-four participants reported ExE. Verbal descriptions of ExE were analyzed using Thematic Analysis (TA). Four themes were identified: intensified thoughts and perception-like imagery, actorobserver separation, attributions of normality, and autonomy versus control. This study complements and extends the existing literature on the psychology of paranormal disbelief and skepticism.
Accessibility: Document does not exist in file
Language:
eng
Author:
Simmonds-Moore, C.
Secondary author(s):
Rice, D., O'gwin, C.
Document type:
Article
Number of reproductions:
2
Reference:
Simmonds-Moore, C., Rice, D., & O'gwin, C. (2019). My brain is cool: A thematic analysis of exceptional experiences among sceptics. Journal of the Society for Psychical Research, 84(4), 193-211.
Indexed document: No
Keywords: Exceptional experiences / Paranormal belief / Thematic Analysis / Placebo
DocumentFinal report - Induced near-death-experiences in healthy volunteers: Phenomenology, psychophysiology and after effects. Illustration with two exceptional case studies2020

Reference code: PT/FB
Entity holding: BIAL Foundation
Location: S. Mamede do Coronado
Title:
BIAL Foundation Archive
Start date: 1994
History:
The BIAL Foundation was created in 1994 by Laboratórios BIAL in conjunction with the Council of Rectors of Portuguese Universities. BIAL’s Foundation mission is to foster the scientific study of Man from both the physical and spiritual perspectives.
Along the years the BIAL Foundation has developed an important relationship with the scientific community, first in Portugal and after worldwide. Today it is an institution of reference which aims to stimulate new researches that may help people, promote more health and contribute to new milestones to gain access to knowledge.
Among its activities the BIAL Foundation manages the BIAL Award, created in 1984, one of the most important awards in the Health field in Europe. The BIAL Award rewards both the basic and the clinical research distinguishing works of major impact in medical research.
The BIAL Foundation also assigns Scientific Research Scholarships for the study of neurophysiological and mental health in people, arousing the interest of researchers in the areas of Psychophysiology and Parapsychology.
To date the BIAL Foundation has supported 461 projects, more than 1000 researchers, with research groups in twenty-seven countries, resulting, until April 2013, in about 600 full papers, out of which 172 published in indexed international journals with an average impact factor of 3.6 and a substantial number of citations (1665).
Since 1996 the BIAL Foundation organizes the Symposia entitled "Behind and Beyond the Brain", a Forum that gathers well renowned neurosciences speakers and the BIAL Foundation Fellows which are spread around the world.
Classified as an institution of public utility, the BIAL Foundation includes among its patrons the Portuguese President, the Portuguese Universities Rectors' Council and the Portuguese Medical Association.
URL: http://www.bial.com/pt/
Accessibility: By permission

Reference code: PT/FB/BL
Entity holding: BIAL Foundation
Title: BIAL Grants
Start date: 1994
History:
In 1994 the BIAL Foundation launched a programme of science research grants with the aim of encouraging the research into Man’s physical and mental processes, namely in fields still largely unexplored but which warrant further scientific analysis, as Psychophysiology and Parapsychology.
Since its launch, applications to the BIAL grants have been increasing. Up to now 461 projects have been supported, involving more than 1000 researchers from 27 countries.
The approved applications have benefited from grants in amounts comprised between €5,000 and €50, 000. The amount to be granted is fixed by the Scientific board according to the needs of each project.
The supported projects have originated, until April 2013, in about 600 full papers, 172 out of which were published in indexed international journals with an average impact factor of 3.6 and a substantial number of citations (1665).
Among the BIAL Foundation fellows is worth highlighting the presence of scientists from prestigious universities from the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Russia, Germany, Japan, France, Canada, and many others.
The BIAL grants are promoted biannually.

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2016
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
2016 Grants
Start date: 2017-01

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2016-069
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
069 - Induced near-death-experiences in healthy volunteers: Phenomenology, psychophysiology and after effects. Illustration with two exceptional case studies
Duration: 2018-05 - 2020-11
Researcher(s):
Mário Simões, Sofia Machado Ferreira, Ana Paula Farinha
Institution(s): Laboratory of Mind-Matter Interaction with Therapeutic Intention - LIMMIT, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de Lisboa (Portugal); Hospital de Santa Maria, Lisboa (Portugal)
Contents: Contents:
Application form
Correspondence
Progress report
Final report
Article
Author: Simões, M.
Secondary author(s):
Ferreira, S., Farinha, A.
Number of reproductions:
3
Keywords:
Hypnosis / Near death experiences / Spiritualiy / Amplified states of consciousness / Parapsychology and Psychophysiology

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2016-069.01
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
Final report - Induced near-death-experiences in healthy volunteers: Phenomenology, psychophysiology and after effects. Illustration with two exceptional case studies
Publication year: 2020
URL:
https://www.bial.com/media/3495/induced-near-death-experiences-in-healthy-volunteers.pdf
Abstract/Results: ABSTRACT:
BACKGROUND
Near-death experiences (NDEs) are known to occur in individuals who go through the first stages of physical death. Such framing elements, defining what has been called an NDE include, among others, OBE’s, meeting dead relatives and spiritual entities, an encounter with a bright light, a life-review moment carrying an important message, all before returning to everyday awareness.
AIMS
Produce an NDE like through hypnosis and in mimicking after-effects of a true episode. Verify if Cortisol decreases and Melatonin increases. To study in depth two exceptional cases.
METHOD
Subjects (n=19) were selected and submitted to a specific hypnosis protocol in order to induce an NDE. The instruments used were the Greyson NDE Scale, BSI 18, DAP-R and SHALOM. Values of cortisol and melatonin were obtained from saliva samples before and after the experience. The two exceptional cases were sorted because of the not usual content experienced in a NDE and thematic analysis and semi-structured interviews were used.
RESULTS
All volunteers scored as a true NDE. There is not significant difference for both hormones before and after the hypnotic induction for the whole group. There was a decrease of Melatonin in nearly half of the sample and Cortisol increase for five subjects. The aftereffects pointed to the inconclusiveness of the results. In the two exceptional case study, mystical experiences were established.
CONCLUSIONS
A similar event to an NDE was achieved with the hypnosis protocol. A Cortisol increase, for some subjects, could mean that it was somehow stressful. Melatonin decrease probably means a relaxation in alert systems. Both in depth-studied subjects had experiences of a mystical nature. It shows that the use of hypnosis as a tool within a transpersonal therapeutic approach can enhance psycho-spiritual growth.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Language:
eng
Author:
Simões, M.
Secondary author(s):
Machado, S.
Document type:
Final report
Number of reproductions:
3
Reference:
Simões, M., & Machado, S. (2020). Final report - Induced near-death-experiences in healthy volunteers: Phenomenology, psychophysiology and after effects. Illustration with two exceptional case studies.
Indexed document: No
Keywords: Hypnosis / Near-death-Experience / Near-death-like-experience / Non-ordinary state of consciousness / Mystical experience / Spirituality / Spiritual maturity / Salivary biomarkers / Thematic analysis

Final report - Induced near-death-experiences in healthy volunteers: Phenomenology, psychophysiology and after effects. Illustration with two exceptional case studies

Final report - Induced near-death-experiences in healthy volunteers: Phenomenology, psychophysiology and after effects. Illustration with two exceptional case studies
DocumentAn encounter with the self: A thematic and content analysis of DMT experiences from a naturalistic field study2023

Reference code: PT/FB
Entity holding: BIAL Foundation
Location: S. Mamede do Coronado
Title:
BIAL Foundation Archive
Start date: 1994
History:
The BIAL Foundation was created in 1994 by Laboratórios BIAL in conjunction with the Council of Rectors of Portuguese Universities. BIAL’s Foundation mission is to foster the scientific study of Man from both the physical and spiritual perspectives.
Along the years the BIAL Foundation has developed an important relationship with the scientific community, first in Portugal and after worldwide. Today it is an institution of reference which aims to stimulate new researches that may help people, promote more health and contribute to new milestones to gain access to knowledge.
Among its activities the BIAL Foundation manages the BIAL Award, created in 1984, one of the most important awards in the Health field in Europe. The BIAL Award rewards both the basic and the clinical research distinguishing works of major impact in medical research.
The BIAL Foundation also assigns Scientific Research Scholarships for the study of neurophysiological and mental health in people, arousing the interest of researchers in the areas of Psychophysiology and Parapsychology.
To date the BIAL Foundation has supported 461 projects, more than 1000 researchers, with research groups in twenty-seven countries, resulting, until April 2013, in about 600 full papers, out of which 172 published in indexed international journals with an average impact factor of 3.6 and a substantial number of citations (1665).
Since 1996 the BIAL Foundation organizes the Symposia entitled "Behind and Beyond the Brain", a Forum that gathers well renowned neurosciences speakers and the BIAL Foundation Fellows which are spread around the world.
Classified as an institution of public utility, the BIAL Foundation includes among its patrons the Portuguese President, the Portuguese Universities Rectors' Council and the Portuguese Medical Association.
URL: http://www.bial.com/pt/
Accessibility: By permission

Reference code: PT/FB/BL
Entity holding: BIAL Foundation
Title: BIAL Grants
Start date: 1994
History:
In 1994 the BIAL Foundation launched a programme of science research grants with the aim of encouraging the research into Man’s physical and mental processes, namely in fields still largely unexplored but which warrant further scientific analysis, as Psychophysiology and Parapsychology.
Since its launch, applications to the BIAL grants have been increasing. Up to now 461 projects have been supported, involving more than 1000 researchers from 27 countries.
The approved applications have benefited from grants in amounts comprised between €5,000 and €50, 000. The amount to be granted is fixed by the Scientific board according to the needs of each project.
The supported projects have originated, until April 2013, in about 600 full papers, 172 out of which were published in indexed international journals with an average impact factor of 3.6 and a substantial number of citations (1665).
Among the BIAL Foundation fellows is worth highlighting the presence of scientists from prestigious universities from the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Russia, Germany, Japan, France, Canada, and many others.
The BIAL grants are promoted biannually.

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2018
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
2018 Grants
Start date: 2019-01

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2018-359
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
359 - A comparison of NN-DMT, Changa & 5-MeO-DMT and the Near-death Experience: Qualitative analyses and reviews of the neuroscience
Duration: 2020/01 - 2024/05
Researcher(s):
Pascal Michael, David Luke
Institution(s): Department of Psychology, Social Work and Counselling, Greenwich University, London (UK); Psychedelic Research Group, Imperial College London (UK)
Contents: Contents:
Application form
Correspondence
Research Funding Agreement
Progress report
Final report
Articles
Language: eng
Author:
Michael, P.
Secondary author(s):
Luke, D.
Number of reproductions:
3
Keywords:
Near-death experience / Dimethyltryptamine/DMT / Phenomenology / Pineal Gland / Psychophysiology and Parapsychology

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2018-359.02
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
An encounter with the self: A thematic and content analysis of DMT experiences from a naturalistic field study
Publication year: 2023
URL:
https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1083356/full
Abstract/Results: ABSTRACT:
Introduction:
N,N-Dimethyltryptamine (DMT) is an endogenous serotonergic psychedelic capable of producing radical shifts in an experience that have significant implications for consciousness and its neural correlates, especially given the "disconnected consciousness" suggested by the "breakthrough" DMT state. Its increasing usage and clinical trial indicate the growing importance of a thorough elucidation of the experience's qualitative content, over and above the phenomenological structure. This is particularly in light of the intensely pervasive effects of DMT occasions in all dimensions of the self, which are often ontologically challenging yet potentially transformative.
Methods:
This is the second report on the first naturalistic field study of DMT use exploring its qualitative analysis. Screened, healthy, anonymized, and experienced DMT users were observed during their non-clinical use of the drug at home (40-75-mg inhaled). In-depth semi-structured interviews, inspired by the micro-phenomenological technique, were employed immediately after their experience. This study reports on the thematic and content analysis of one major domain of the breakthrough experiences elicited, the "self"; where analyses of the "other" were previously reported. A total of 36 post-DMT experience interviews with mostly Caucasian (83%) men (eight women) of a mean of 37 years were predominantly inductively coded.
Results:
Invariably, profound and highly intense experiences occurred. The first overarching category comprised the onset of effects, encompassing super-ordinate themes including sensory, emotion and body, and space-time shifts; the second category comprised bodily effects, encompassing themes including pleasurable, neutral/both, and uncomfortable; the third category comprised the sensorial effects, encompassing open-eye, visual, and cross-modal and other; the fourth comprised the psychological effects, encompassing memory and language, awareness and sense of self, and time distortions; and the fifth comprised the emotional effects, encompassing positive, neither/both, and challenging experiences. Many further subthemes also illuminate the rich content of the DMT experience.
Discussion:
The present study provides a systematic and nuanced analysis of the content of the breakthrough DMT state pertaining to one's personal and self-referential experiences of the body, senses, psychology, and emotions. The resonances both with previous DMT studies and other types of extraordinary experiences, such as the alien abduction, shamanic and near-death experiences, are also elaborated upon. Putative neural mechanisms and their promise as a psychotherapeutic agent, especially owing to deep emotional impact, are discussed.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Language:
eng
Author:
Michael, P.
Secondary author(s):
Luke, D., Robinson, O.
Document type:
Article
Number of reproductions:
3
Reference:
Michael, P., Luke, D., & Robinson, O. (2023). An encounter with the self: A thematic and content analysis of the DMT experience from a naturalistic field study. Frontiers in Psychology, 14, 1083356. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1083356
2-year Impact Factor: 2.6|2023
Times cited: 7|2025-09-26
Indexed document: Yes
Quartile: Q1
Keywords: Dimethyltryptamine / Thematic analysis / Naturalistic / Field study / Social / Psychedelic

An encounter with the other: A thematic and content analysis of DMT experiences from a naturalistic field study

An encounter with the other: A thematic and content analysis of DMT experiences from a naturalistic field study
DocumentAn encounter with the other: A thematic and content analysis of DMT experiences from a naturalistic field study2021

Reference code: PT/FB
Entity holding: BIAL Foundation
Location: S. Mamede do Coronado
Title:
BIAL Foundation Archive
Start date: 1994
History:
The BIAL Foundation was created in 1994 by Laboratórios BIAL in conjunction with the Council of Rectors of Portuguese Universities. BIAL’s Foundation mission is to foster the scientific study of Man from both the physical and spiritual perspectives.
Along the years the BIAL Foundation has developed an important relationship with the scientific community, first in Portugal and after worldwide. Today it is an institution of reference which aims to stimulate new researches that may help people, promote more health and contribute to new milestones to gain access to knowledge.
Among its activities the BIAL Foundation manages the BIAL Award, created in 1984, one of the most important awards in the Health field in Europe. The BIAL Award rewards both the basic and the clinical research distinguishing works of major impact in medical research.
The BIAL Foundation also assigns Scientific Research Scholarships for the study of neurophysiological and mental health in people, arousing the interest of researchers in the areas of Psychophysiology and Parapsychology.
To date the BIAL Foundation has supported 461 projects, more than 1000 researchers, with research groups in twenty-seven countries, resulting, until April 2013, in about 600 full papers, out of which 172 published in indexed international journals with an average impact factor of 3.6 and a substantial number of citations (1665).
Since 1996 the BIAL Foundation organizes the Symposia entitled "Behind and Beyond the Brain", a Forum that gathers well renowned neurosciences speakers and the BIAL Foundation Fellows which are spread around the world.
Classified as an institution of public utility, the BIAL Foundation includes among its patrons the Portuguese President, the Portuguese Universities Rectors' Council and the Portuguese Medical Association.
URL: http://www.bial.com/pt/
Accessibility: By permission

Reference code: PT/FB/BL
Entity holding: BIAL Foundation
Title: BIAL Grants
Start date: 1994
History:
In 1994 the BIAL Foundation launched a programme of science research grants with the aim of encouraging the research into Man’s physical and mental processes, namely in fields still largely unexplored but which warrant further scientific analysis, as Psychophysiology and Parapsychology.
Since its launch, applications to the BIAL grants have been increasing. Up to now 461 projects have been supported, involving more than 1000 researchers from 27 countries.
The approved applications have benefited from grants in amounts comprised between €5,000 and €50, 000. The amount to be granted is fixed by the Scientific board according to the needs of each project.
The supported projects have originated, until April 2013, in about 600 full papers, 172 out of which were published in indexed international journals with an average impact factor of 3.6 and a substantial number of citations (1665).
Among the BIAL Foundation fellows is worth highlighting the presence of scientists from prestigious universities from the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Russia, Germany, Japan, France, Canada, and many others.
The BIAL grants are promoted biannually.

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2018
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
2018 Grants
Start date: 2019-01

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2018-359
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
359 - A comparison of NN-DMT, Changa & 5-MeO-DMT and the Near-death Experience: Qualitative analyses and reviews of the neuroscience
Duration: 2020/01 - 2024/05
Researcher(s):
Pascal Michael, David Luke
Institution(s): Department of Psychology, Social Work and Counselling, Greenwich University, London (UK); Psychedelic Research Group, Imperial College London (UK)
Contents: Contents:
Application form
Correspondence
Research Funding Agreement
Progress report
Final report
Articles
Language: eng
Author:
Michael, P.
Secondary author(s):
Luke, D.
Number of reproductions:
3
Keywords:
Near-death experience / Dimethyltryptamine/DMT / Phenomenology / Pineal Gland / Psychophysiology and Parapsychology

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2018-359.03
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
An encounter with the other: A thematic and content analysis of DMT experiences from a naturalistic field study
Publication year: 2021
URL:
https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2021.720717/full
Abstract/Results: ABSTRACT:
Introduction: N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT) is an endogenous serotonergic psychedelic capable of producing radical shifts in conscious experience. Increasing trends in its use, as well as new trials administering DMT to patients, indicate the growing importance of a thorough elucidation of the qualitative content, over and above structure, which the drug occasions. This is particularly in light of the hyper-real, otherworldly, and often ontologically challenging yet potentially transformative, nature of the experience, not least encounters with apparently non-self social agents. Laboratory studies have been limited by clinical setting and lacking qualitative analyses of experiential content, while online surveys’ limitations lie in retrospective design, uncontrolled use, and both of which not guaranteeing ‘breakthrough’ experiences, i.e., producing very strong psychoactive effects.
Methods: We report on the first naturalistic field study of DMT use including its qualitative analysis. Screened, healthy, anonymised and experienced DMT users were observed during their non-clinical use of the drug at home (40–75 mg inhaled). In-depth semi-structured interviews (inspired by the micro-phenomenological technique) were employed immediately after their experience. This paper reports on the thematic analysis of one major domain of the breakthrough experiences elicited, the ‘other’. Thirty-six post-DMT experience interviews with mostly Caucasian (83%) males (eight female) of average 37 years were predominantly inductively coded.
Results: Invariably, profound and highly intense experiences occurred. The first overarching category comprised the encounter with other ‘beings’ (94% of reports), encompassing super-ordinate themes including the entities’ role, appearance, demeanour, communication and interaction; while the second overarching category comprised experiences of emerging into other ‘worlds’ (100% of reports), encompassing super-ordinate themes of the scene, the contents and quality of the immersive spaces. Many further mid-level themes and subthemes also illuminate the rich content of the DMT experience.
Discussion: The present study provides a systematic and in-depth analysis of the nuanced content of the otherworldly encounter within the breakthrough DMT experience, as well as elaborating on the resonances both with previous DMT studies focusing on entity encounters and other types of extraordinary experiences entailing such encounters. These include the alien abduction, folkloric, shamanic and near-death experience. Putative neural mechanisms of these features of the DMT experience and its promise as a psychotherapeutic agent are discussed in light of such findings.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Language:
eng
Author:
Michael, P.
Secondary author(s):
Luke, D., Robinson, O.
Document type:
Article
Number of reproductions:
3
Reference:
Michael, P., Luke, D., & Robinson, O. (2021). An encounter with the other: A thematic and content analysis of DMT experiences from a naturalistic field study. Frontiers in Psychology, 12:720717. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2021.720717
2-year Impact Factor: 4.232|2021
Times cited: 23|2025-09-20
Indexed document: Yes
Quartile: Q1
Keywords: Dimethyltryptamine / Thematic analysis / Naturalistic / Field study / Social / Psychedelic

An encounter with the other: A thematic and content analysis of DMT experiences from a naturalistic field study

An encounter with the other: A thematic and content analysis of DMT experiences from a naturalistic field study
DocumentThis is your brain on death: a comparative analysis of a near-death experience and subsequent 5-Methoxy-DMT experience2023

Reference code: PT/FB
Entity holding: BIAL Foundation
Location: S. Mamede do Coronado
Title:
BIAL Foundation Archive
Start date: 1994
History:
The BIAL Foundation was created in 1994 by Laboratórios BIAL in conjunction with the Council of Rectors of Portuguese Universities. BIAL’s Foundation mission is to foster the scientific study of Man from both the physical and spiritual perspectives.
Along the years the BIAL Foundation has developed an important relationship with the scientific community, first in Portugal and after worldwide. Today it is an institution of reference which aims to stimulate new researches that may help people, promote more health and contribute to new milestones to gain access to knowledge.
Among its activities the BIAL Foundation manages the BIAL Award, created in 1984, one of the most important awards in the Health field in Europe. The BIAL Award rewards both the basic and the clinical research distinguishing works of major impact in medical research.
The BIAL Foundation also assigns Scientific Research Scholarships for the study of neurophysiological and mental health in people, arousing the interest of researchers in the areas of Psychophysiology and Parapsychology.
To date the BIAL Foundation has supported 461 projects, more than 1000 researchers, with research groups in twenty-seven countries, resulting, until April 2013, in about 600 full papers, out of which 172 published in indexed international journals with an average impact factor of 3.6 and a substantial number of citations (1665).
Since 1996 the BIAL Foundation organizes the Symposia entitled "Behind and Beyond the Brain", a Forum that gathers well renowned neurosciences speakers and the BIAL Foundation Fellows which are spread around the world.
Classified as an institution of public utility, the BIAL Foundation includes among its patrons the Portuguese President, the Portuguese Universities Rectors' Council and the Portuguese Medical Association.
URL: http://www.bial.com/pt/
Accessibility: By permission

Reference code: PT/FB/BL
Entity holding: BIAL Foundation
Title: BIAL Grants
Start date: 1994
History:
In 1994 the BIAL Foundation launched a programme of science research grants with the aim of encouraging the research into Man’s physical and mental processes, namely in fields still largely unexplored but which warrant further scientific analysis, as Psychophysiology and Parapsychology.
Since its launch, applications to the BIAL grants have been increasing. Up to now 461 projects have been supported, involving more than 1000 researchers from 27 countries.
The approved applications have benefited from grants in amounts comprised between €5,000 and €50, 000. The amount to be granted is fixed by the Scientific board according to the needs of each project.
The supported projects have originated, until April 2013, in about 600 full papers, 172 out of which were published in indexed international journals with an average impact factor of 3.6 and a substantial number of citations (1665).
Among the BIAL Foundation fellows is worth highlighting the presence of scientists from prestigious universities from the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Russia, Germany, Japan, France, Canada, and many others.
The BIAL grants are promoted biannually.

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2018
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
2018 Grants
Start date: 2019-01

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2018-359
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
359 - A comparison of NN-DMT, Changa & 5-MeO-DMT and the Near-death Experience: Qualitative analyses and reviews of the neuroscience
Duration: 2020/01 - 2024/05
Researcher(s):
Pascal Michael, David Luke
Institution(s): Department of Psychology, Social Work and Counselling, Greenwich University, London (UK); Psychedelic Research Group, Imperial College London (UK)
Contents: Contents:
Application form
Correspondence
Research Funding Agreement
Progress report
Final report
Articles
Language: eng
Author:
Michael, P.
Secondary author(s):
Luke, D.
Number of reproductions:
3
Keywords:
Near-death experience / Dimethyltryptamine/DMT / Phenomenology / Pineal Gland / Psychophysiology and Parapsychology

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2018-359.04
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
This is your brain on death: a comparative analysis of a near-death experience and subsequent 5-Methoxy-DMT experience
Publication year: 2023
URL:
https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1083361/full
Abstract/Results: ABSTRACT:
Introduction: Much research has focused on the modeling of the near-death experience (NDE) by classical and atypical psychedelics; however, to date, no study has reported on the relationship between the NDE and the experience induced by the highly potent, endogenous psychedelic drug 5-Methoxy-DMT (5MeO-DMT). This article presents a case study of an individual who is popularly documented to have had a profound near-death experience while in a coma caused by bacterial meningoencephalitis. Additionally, the individual also subsequently underwent an experience with 5MeO-DMT.
Methods: A semi-structured interview was conducted with the subject concerning his experiences with both the NDE and 5MeO-DMT. A basic thematic analysis was performed on both the original text describing the NDE as well as the interview itself, which mainly focused on the subject's experience with 5MeO-DMT. This analysis was organized to identify both the similar and different emergent themes between the two states, with a particular emphasis on the subject's perceptions of the similarities and differences between the experiences.
Results: There is a very high level of comparability between the original NDE and psychedelic experiences in general, including shared characteristics such as entering other worlds, meeting menacing or benevolent entities, experiencing synesthesia, perinatal regression, and lucid dreamlike properties. Much comparability was also identified with the 5MeO-DMT experience, in particular the major mystical experiential domains, such as ego dissolution, but especially transcendence of time and space. However, there were also a few unique themes (life review, the deceased, and the threshold) that emerged in the NDE that were not present in the 5MeO-DMT experience or other psychedelic experience studies, suggesting that these themes may be more unique to the NDE.
Discussion: Despite such similarities, the participant asserted that his NDE and psychedelic experiences were not similar enough to be attributed to endogenous psychedelics. In this study, we discussed several mechanisms that could potentially account for the NDE, including lucid dreams and perinatal regression. However, the study also explored the possibility that the unique etiology of the participant's NDE, bacterial meningoencephalitis affecting the neocortex, may have triggered similar downstream neural activity as that initiated by psychedelic agents through pyramidal neuronal activation. This hypothesis is presented with appropriate caveats and acknowledged as speculative.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Language:
eng
Author:
Michael, P.
Secondary author(s):
Luke, D., Robinson, O.
Document type:
Article
Number of reproductions:
3
Reference:
Michael, P., Luke, D., & Robinson, O. (2023). This is your brain on death: a comparative analysis of a near-death experience and subsequent 5-Methoxy-DMT experience. Frontiers in Psychology, 14: 1083361. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1083361
2-year Impact Factor: 2.6|2023
Times cited: 11|2025-09-26
Indexed document: Yes
Quartile: Q2
Keywords: 5-MeO-DMT / Endogenous / Psychedelics / Near-death experience / Encephalitis / Mystical experience / Thematic analysis

This is your brain on death: a comparative analysis of a near-death experience and subsequent 5-Methoxy-DMT experience

This is your brain on death: a comparative analysis of a near-death experience and subsequent 5-Methoxy-DMT experience
DocumentAn encounter with death: A comparative thematic and content analysis of naturalistic DMT experiences and the near-death experience2025

Reference code: PT/FB
Entity holding: BIAL Foundation
Location: S. Mamede do Coronado
Title:
BIAL Foundation Archive
Start date: 1994
History:
The BIAL Foundation was created in 1994 by Laboratórios BIAL in conjunction with the Council of Rectors of Portuguese Universities. BIAL’s Foundation mission is to foster the scientific study of Man from both the physical and spiritual perspectives.
Along the years the BIAL Foundation has developed an important relationship with the scientific community, first in Portugal and after worldwide. Today it is an institution of reference which aims to stimulate new researches that may help people, promote more health and contribute to new milestones to gain access to knowledge.
Among its activities the BIAL Foundation manages the BIAL Award, created in 1984, one of the most important awards in the Health field in Europe. The BIAL Award rewards both the basic and the clinical research distinguishing works of major impact in medical research.
The BIAL Foundation also assigns Scientific Research Scholarships for the study of neurophysiological and mental health in people, arousing the interest of researchers in the areas of Psychophysiology and Parapsychology.
To date the BIAL Foundation has supported 461 projects, more than 1000 researchers, with research groups in twenty-seven countries, resulting, until April 2013, in about 600 full papers, out of which 172 published in indexed international journals with an average impact factor of 3.6 and a substantial number of citations (1665).
Since 1996 the BIAL Foundation organizes the Symposia entitled "Behind and Beyond the Brain", a Forum that gathers well renowned neurosciences speakers and the BIAL Foundation Fellows which are spread around the world.
Classified as an institution of public utility, the BIAL Foundation includes among its patrons the Portuguese President, the Portuguese Universities Rectors' Council and the Portuguese Medical Association.
URL: http://www.bial.com/pt/
Accessibility: By permission

Reference code: PT/FB/BL
Entity holding: BIAL Foundation
Title: BIAL Grants
Start date: 1994
History:
In 1994 the BIAL Foundation launched a programme of science research grants with the aim of encouraging the research into Man’s physical and mental processes, namely in fields still largely unexplored but which warrant further scientific analysis, as Psychophysiology and Parapsychology.
Since its launch, applications to the BIAL grants have been increasing. Up to now 461 projects have been supported, involving more than 1000 researchers from 27 countries.
The approved applications have benefited from grants in amounts comprised between €5,000 and €50, 000. The amount to be granted is fixed by the Scientific board according to the needs of each project.
The supported projects have originated, until April 2013, in about 600 full papers, 172 out of which were published in indexed international journals with an average impact factor of 3.6 and a substantial number of citations (1665).
Among the BIAL Foundation fellows is worth highlighting the presence of scientists from prestigious universities from the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Russia, Germany, Japan, France, Canada, and many others.
The BIAL grants are promoted biannually.

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2018
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
2018 Grants
Start date: 2019-01

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2018-359
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
359 - A comparison of NN-DMT, Changa & 5-MeO-DMT and the Near-death Experience: Qualitative analyses and reviews of the neuroscience
Duration: 2020/01 - 2024/05
Researcher(s):
Pascal Michael, David Luke
Institution(s): Department of Psychology, Social Work and Counselling, Greenwich University, London (UK); Psychedelic Research Group, Imperial College London (UK)
Contents: Contents:
Application form
Correspondence
Research Funding Agreement
Progress report
Final report
Articles
Language: eng
Author:
Michael, P.
Secondary author(s):
Luke, D.
Number of reproductions:
3
Keywords:
Near-death experience / Dimethyltryptamine/DMT / Phenomenology / Pineal Gland / Psychophysiology and Parapsychology

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2018-359.06
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
An encounter with death: A comparative thematic and content analysis of naturalistic DMT experiences and the near-death experience
Publication year: 2025
URL:
https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2025.1532937
Abstract/Results: ABSTRACT:
Introduction: Classical near-death experiences (NDEs) refer to states of disconnected consciousness characterised by a range of features occurring in the context of being close to death. Various psychedelic substances, such as N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT), consistently replicate NDE features and may be considered 'near-death-like experiences.' However, a systematic qualitative analysis comparing the specifics of content with the broader themes of both psychedelic and NDEs has yet to be conducted.
Methods: We report the third thematic and content analysis of the DMT experience from a naturalistic field study, focusing on themes related to death and dying. Based on 36 semi-structured interviews, this analysis is then directly compared, qualitatively and in terms of content frequency, with a novel extension of a previous thematic analysis of 34 written NDE narratives.
Results: The 'canonical NDE themes' identified across the DMT experiences included Translocation, Bright Light(s), Sense of Dying, The Void, Disembodiment, Tunnel-like Structures, Light Being-esque Entities, Deceased Family, Life Review-like, and Hyper-empathic Experiences. A total of 95% of participants reported at least one of these. Twelve 'less typical NDE motifs' were also noted. Five classical NDE features were entirely absent from DMT, while DMT exhibited an even broader array of experience features that were absent from NDEs. DMT clearly shares a more basic phenomenological structure with NDEs but shows differences in the prevalence of certain features. Furthermore, DMT did not present any immediately recognisable linear sequencing of themes. Overall, DMT is distinctly unique in its qualitative content, characterised by its more prodigious and stereotypical nature, which includes kaleidoscopic, extraterrestrial, transcultural, fluctuating, and overwhelming elements.
Discussion: When examining the comparability between DMT and NDEs at a fundamentally more nuanced level of qualitative content (as opposed to broad themes or questionnaire items), the two experiences clearly diverge. However, a minority of NDEs, which are themselves unique, do share significant content with DMT. Taken together, DMT could be considered an 'NDE-mimetic.' The weaker comparability is likely due not only to differences in context but also to the complex neural processes occurring near death, in which endogenous DMT may only play a small role. In light of this level of parallelism with NDEs, some potential clinical applications of DMT are also discussed.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Language:
eng
Author:
Michael, P.
Secondary author(s):
Luke, D., Robinson, O.
Document type:
Article
Number of reproductions:
3
Reference:
Michael, P., Luke, D., & Robinson, O. (2025). An encounter with death: a comparative thematic and content analysis of naturalistic DMT experiences and the near-death experience. Frontiers in Psychology, 16, 1532937. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2025.1532937
2-year Impact Factor: 2.9|2024
Impact factor notes: Impact factor not available yet for 2025
Times cited: 0|2025-09-27
Indexed document: Yes
Quartile: Q1
Keywords: DMT / Dimethyltryptamine / NDE / Naturalistic / Near-death experience / Psychedelic / Thematic analysis

An encounter with death: A comparative thematic and content analysis of naturalistic DMT experiences and the near-death experience

An encounter with death: A comparative thematic and content analysis of naturalistic DMT experiences and the near-death experience