Systemic family constellations by Bert Hellinger: when the root of all problems is in the family

Systemic family constellations by Bert Hellinger represent a method of working with family systems, which was developed by the German psychotherapist Bert Hellinger. This method is aimed at identifying and resolving dynamics, problems and blocks in family relationships.

The basic principles of systemic family constellations include the following:

• working with family systems: Bert Hellinger insisted that family members are closely connected by energetic connections and influence each other. Constellations allow you to visualize these connections and the dynamics of the system.
• laws of system arrangements: Hellinger identified several laws that characterize these systems. One of them, for example, states that every family member has a right to his place, and when someone steps outside of his “natural” place, this can cause problems.
• working with roles and identities: Often in families there is an identification of family members with those who were victims or someone who caused harm. Constellations can help identify these roles and bring them into balance.
• finding solutions and healing: The purpose of systemic family constellations is not only to identify problems, but also to find ways to heal and restore balance in family relationships.

Work with systemic family constellations is often carried out in groups. Participants can represent family members, and the facilitator (often an experienced therapist) arranges their spatial arrangement according to family dynamics.

The tools for projection are not cards, toys, pictures, etc., but people (“substitutes”). These people reflect (or “mirror,” as adherents of the mirror neuron theory would say) what is happening in the client’s unconscious. It becomes clear to us what the cause of the problem is and then we can change something that will lead the client to solving his request. And whether this change will be effective we can also immediately observe in the process of the same arrangement — specialists from the international psychotherapeutic project New Age PSY explain.

Systemic family constellations should be performed under the guidance of qualified and licensed professionals such as psychotherapists, psychologists or other mental health professionals. Such specialists must have experience working with systemic therapy methods and systemic constellations. Things to consider here:

• consultations and conversations: Before starting a systemic constellation session, many specialists offer individual consultations to gain a deeper understanding of your needs and goals. It can also help assess how appropriate family constellations are in a particular case.
• professional organizations: Contact professional psychotherapy or systemic therapy organizations for guidance and information about qualified professionals.
• Oreviews from other clients and recommendations may also be useful when choosing a specialist.

It is important to find a professional with whom you feel comfortable and who has experience with systemic therapy methods!

Family constellations by Bert Hellinger — when to help

Systemic family constellations techniques can be helpful for people dealing with a variety of family or interpersonal problems, as well as for those seeking to better understand the dynamics of their relationships and work to improve them. Specific reasons for seeking help may include: