Drugs/Therapy

How Family Constellation Therapy Works

By Dynne C. | Update Date: Apr 15, 2024 02:30 AM EDT

Psychotherapists who specialize in family therapy aim to uncover and resolve hidden dynamics within families. While they have the same goal, they apply different methods to address these issues.

Family constellation therapy, a method developed by German psychotherapist Bert Hellinger in the 1990s, suggests that people are deeply influenced by their family's past experiences and unresolved conflicts.

According to the principles applied in family constellation therapy, there is an invisible "family energy field" that connects all members across generations. Within this field, there are often entanglements, where a person unconsciously takes on emotions, behaviors, or fates of their ancestors. These entanglements can manifest as personal struggles, relationship difficulties, or health issues.

How does it work?

During a family constellation therapy session, the client, known as the "seeker," presents an issue or challenge they are facing. The therapist then facilitates a constellation, where representatives are chosen to stand in for family members or elements related to the issue. Through this setup, the therapist and the seeker can observe the dynamics at play within the family system.

Through guided exploration, family constellation therapy aims to bring hidden dynamics into awareness. By acknowledging and honoring the experiences of ancestors, a person can release entanglements and find resolution. This process often leads to valuable insights and emotional healing for the seeker.

Benefits of Family Constellation Therapy

Family constellation therapy brings clarity to family dynamics, helping a person understand struggles and relationships. It promotes emotional healing by addressing entanglements with the experiences of ancestors, then offering relief from long-standing issues. 

It also improves relationships by resolving underlying family patterns and promoting healthier dynamics and communication. Ultimately, it encourages personal growth and empowerment, freeing a person from the past and enabling them to live authentically and purposefully. In essence, family constellation therapy offers an opportunity for transformation, emotional relief, improved relationships, and personal empowerment, making it a powerful tool for holistic healing and growth.

© 2023 Counsel & Heal All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.

Join the Conversation

Real Time Analytics