Cognitive-behavioral couple therapy for sexual interest and arousal issues

Cognitive-Behavioural Couple Therapy for Sexual Interest/Arousal Disorder

Not applicable Interventional Dalhousie University · NCT06777277

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

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment170 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorDalhousie University Academic / other
Locations3 sites (Vancouver, British Columbia and 2 other locations)
Trial IDNCT06777277 on ClinicalTrials.gov

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.

Who should consider this trial

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.

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

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

Eligibility criteria

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 this trial is running

Vancouver, British Columbia and 2 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Sexual Interest/Arousal Disordercognitive-behavioral couple therapyEmotion regulationSexual dysfunctionFemale sexual interest/arousal disorderDSM-5
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.