Clinical trial Recruiting at 2 sites Interventional Ages 18 and up

Cognitive-behavioral couple therapy for sexual interest and arousal issues

Official title: Cognitive-Behavioural Couple Therapy for Sexual Interest/Arousal Disorder

Run by Dalhousie University · NCT06777277 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is testing a new online therapy for couples to see if it can help improve sexual interest and arousal issues, especially for women.

Quick facts

Study typeInterventional
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
Enrollment170 (estimated)
SponsorDalhousie University
Academic / other
Locations3 sites (Vancouver, British Columbia and 2 other locations)
StatusRecruiting
StartedJanuary 7, 2025
Main results expectedDecember 1, 2026
Study endsDecember 1, 2028
Registry record updatedFebruary 12, 2025
Trial IDNCT06777277 on ClinicalTrials.gov

Is this trial a fit for you?

Likely a good fit

Ideal candidates include couples where one partner identifies as a cisgender woman, a trans woman, or a gender diverse person assigned female at birth, and one partner meets the diagnostic criteria for SIAD.

Probably not a fit

Patients who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or experiencing severe relational distress may not benefit from this therapy.

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This clinical trial aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a novel cognitive-behavioral couple therapy (CBCT) delivered online for treating Sexual Interest/Arousal Disorder (SIAD) in couples. The study involves participants from three centers and focuses on addressing interpersonal factors that contribute to sexual dysfunction, particularly in women. Couples will be assessed for eligibility based on specific criteria, and those who qualify will engage in the therapy to determine its impact on sexual desire and relationship satisfaction.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this therapy could significantly improve sexual health and relationship satisfaction for couples affected by SIAD.

How similar studies have gone: While couple-based sex therapy is commonly used, this specific approach has not been previously tested in research, making it a novel initiative.

Who can join: the full rules

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* One member of the couple must identify as a cisgender woman, a trans woman, or a gender diverse person assigned female at birth;
* One member of the couple must meet diagnostic criteria for SIAD;
* Both partners must be fluent in English or French;
* Both partners must be in a committed, cohabiting relationship for at least one year (with a partner of any gender/sex).

Exclusion Criteria:

* Pregnancy, breastfeeding or one year postpartum;
* No prior sexual experience;
* Severe relational distress or conflict as determined by baseline measures and interview;
* Are currently undergoing treatment for SIAD, or are in couple or sex therapy.

Where it's running

  • University of British Columbia
    Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
    Recruiting
  • Dalhousie University
    Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
    Recruiting
  • Université de Montréal
    Montreal, Quebec, Canada
    Not yet recruiting

Study contacts

Similar studies

Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

How to take part

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.