Two-session contextual couples therapy via videoconferencing in Japan: A feasibility randomized controlled trial

Although divorce rates are increasing in Japan, studies on the relationships of Japanese couples are lacking. This is the first empirical study on couples therapy in Japan. We developed Contextual Couples Therapy (CCT), a principle-based intervention comprising two sessions for Japanese couples. We evaluated the efficacy and feasibility of the intervention in a randomized controlled trial. A total of 36 individuals (18 couples) were randomly assigned to CCT (n = 16) and waitlist control conditions (n = 20). Couples were assessed at pre- and post-treatment and 1- and 3-month follow-ups using the Couples Satisfaction Index. The results indicated that CCT significantly improved the quality of relationships, and the effects were maintained at 1- and 3-month follow-ups. The findings on the satisfaction and acceptability of CCT are encouraging for conducting full-scale randomized control trials. •Developed Contextual Couples Therapy, a 2-session intervention for Japanese couples.•Evaluated intervention's efficacy via randomized controlled trial with 18 couples.•Couples assessed pre-, post-treatment, and at 1- and 3-month follow-ups.•Contextual Couples Therapy improved relationship quality significantly.•Effects outperformed waitlist control, maintained at 1- and 3-month follow-ups.