The
Bluefield Clinic
Alcohol Recovery
What is The Sinclair Method?
Strong Evidence for TSM
TSM is supported by a substantial body of research, with more than 100 published studies examining its effectiveness.
Evidence indicates that naltrexone is most effective when used to support and enhance a structured treatment program, rather than as a standalone intervention.
(Alcohol and Alcoholism, Vol. 36, Issue 1, Jan. 2001)
Naltrexone
Naltrexone is a first-line medical treatment for alcohol dependence in Australia and is available by prescription from a GP.
Within the Sinclair Method, it is taken prior to drinking and works over time to reduce the reinforcing effects of alcohol.
How Does Naltrexone work?
Naltrexone is an opioid receptor antagonist, meaning it blocks the reward response associated with alcohol. Over time, this process reduces cravings and diminishes the learned association between alcohol and pleasure.
Over a period of time, this reduces cravings and gradually diminishes the pleasure associated with drinking, helping you take control of your drinking.
Is Naltrexone Right For You?
In Australia, naltrexone is considered a first-line medication in the treatment of alcohol use concerns. To ensure it is safe and appropriate, consultation with a medical practitioner is required. It is available by prescription from a GP and is subsidised under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), making it accessible and affordable. We collaborate with your GP of choice to support safe prescribing, monitor progress, and provide integrated psychological care.
Naltrexone is not suitable or preferred in all cases. Our treatment model does not rely on medication alone. Clinical psychological therapy remains the foundation of our work, with medication incorporated where appropriate as part of a broader, evidence-based approach.
The Sinclair Method at The Bluefield Clinic
Since 2018, The Bluefield Clinic has provided a personalised, psychology-based program to support clients across Australia using the Sinclair Method.
Our experience shows that combining naltrexone with structured psychological therapy can support meaningful and sustained change. We work collaboratively with prescribing medical practitioners to provide education, counselling and ongoing therapeutic support throughout the process.
Over time, we have developed a detailed understanding of how TSM can be adapted to individual drinking patterns. This allows clients to set the pace of their progress and define their own goals, whether moderation or abstinence.
Alongside the medication protocol, our program incorporates evidence-based psychological therapies focused on relapse prevention, emotional regulation and behavioural change.
These approaches help clients understand the underlying drivers of drinking and build practical, sustainable coping strategies. This integration of medication and therapy creates the conditions for change — reducing cravings while supporting the deeper psychological work required for long-term recovery.
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Important Safety Note
Suddenly stopping alcohol after long-term heavy drinking can be medically dangerous. Rapid cessation may trigger severe withdrawal symptoms including tremor, rapid heartbeat, confusion, seizures, or delirium. If you are considering reducing or stopping alcohol, seek medical guidance to ensure your safety.