Is Family Constellation Therapy Real?
Hellinger systemic constellation, also known as a family constellation or simply constellations, is a therapeutic approach developed by German psychotherapist Bert Hellinger. It is a phenomenological method that aims to uncover and resolve hidden dynamics within a family system or other social systems. The process is typically facilitated by a trained practitioner and involves the use of representatives to represent family members or elements of the system.
Here's a general overview of how Hellinger systemic constellations work:
Set up the Constellation: The facilitator gathers information from the client about their family system or the issue they want to explore. The client selects representatives from a group of participants to stand in as representatives for family members or elements of the system. The facilitator may also ask the client to provide brief information about each representative.
Placement of Representatives: The client intuitively places the chosen representatives in the room, positioning them in relation to each other based on their inner sense of the family dynamics. The facilitator may ask the representatives how they feel in their respective positions.
Facilitator Observations: The facilitator observes the constellation, paying attention to the nonverbal interactions and energy exchanges between the representatives. This is based on the belief that representatives can tap into a collective unconscious or a morphogenetic field that holds information about the system.
Uncovering Dynamics: Through a process of dialogue and questioning, the facilitator interacts with the representatives, guiding them to express their feelings, perceptions, and sensations. This helps to uncover hidden dynamics, entanglements, and unresolved issues within the family system.
Movement and Resolution: The facilitator may suggest movements or interventions to help shift the dynamics and release entanglements. This can involve repositioning representatives, asking representatives to express specific feelings or statements, or even bringing in additional representatives to represent missing family members or elements.
Integration and Healing: As the dynamics shift and unresolved issues come to light, the facilitator works towards achieving a resolution or a sense of acceptance within the constellation. This can involve acknowledging and honoring the representatives' experiences, expressing forgiveness, or finding a new understanding of the family system.
Insights and Application: The client and participants reflect on the constellation and the insights gained. The client may then choose to apply these insights in their own lives, fostering healing and transformation within their family system or social context.
It's important to note that Hellinger systemic constellations are considered experiential and exploratory rather than a definitive solution to complex issues. The approach is often used to gain deeper insights, promote empathy, and create possibilities for healing and reconciliation within the system being explored.
