The
Bluefield Clinic
Alcohol Recovery
Strong Evidence for TSM
More than 100 published research papers support the efficacy of TSM.
Research has found that naltrexone is most effective when used “to supplement, support and enhance a comprehensive, structured treatment program.”
(Alcohol and Alcoholism, Vol. 36, Issue 1, Jan. 2001.)
Naltrexone
TSM uses targeted naltrexone, a first‑line medical treatment for alcohol dependence in Australia and available by prescription from your GP.
According to TSM, naltrexone is taken prior to drinking, helping to reduce the reward response associated with alcohol over a period of time.
How Does Naltrexone work?
Naltrexone is an opioid‑receptor antagonist, which means it blocks the rewarding effects of alcohol.
Over a period of time, this reduces cravings and gradually diminishes the pleasure associated with drinking, helping you take control of your drinking.
Is Naltexone Right For You?
In Australia, naltexone is considered a first-line medication for the treatment of alcohol issues. In order to ensure this medication is safe and appropriate for you, it is important to consult a medical practitioner. Naltexone is available by prescription from a general pracitioner and is subsidised under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), making it widely accessible and affordable. We collaborate with your GP of choice to assist in monitoring the therapeutic effects of the medication and providing psycho-educational support.
Naltrexone is not indicated or preferred in all cases. Our treatment model does not rely on pharmacotherapy alone. Medications, including naltrexone, may be incorporated as part of our broader, evidence-based framework.
Clinical psychological therapy remains the primary component of treatment, with medical collaboration used where appropriate.
The Sinclair Method at The Bluefield Clinic
Since 2018, The Bluefield Clinic has provided a personalised, psychology-based, comprehensive, treatment program Australia-wide to support clients who have chosen to follow The Sinclair Method. We have seen first‑hand how the combination of naltrexone and personalised psychological treatment, used according to the TSM protocol, can help people regain control of their drinking and achieve sustainable long‑term change.
We have developed an in‑depth understanding of TSM based on extensive experience successfully supporting clients with education, counselling, therapy and symptom monitoring as part of shared care with the prescribing medical professional. TSM has adapted to the unique drinking patterns of clients and allowed them to set the pace of their progress and choose their recovery goal — abstinence or moderation.
To complement their TSM medication, our clients benefit from the inclusion in our protocol of the latest developments in psychological therapy. These have provided a cornerstone for relapse prevention, helping clients understand the emotional, cognitive and situational triggers that contribute to alcohol use. On their journey through our program, these approaches and techniques have equipped our clients with the sustainable coping skills and resilience to support long-term recovery.
The effectiveness of this combination, of medication with our therapy, is because the medication creates the optimal conditions for therapy to bring about change. Our ongoing accumulation of experience and understanding in assisting clients to navigate and overcome the challenges of change is a core feature of our program.
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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.