Millennial or Scientific Origin?
The concept of Family Constellations has its origins in the traditions and philosophies that Bert Hellinger studied and drew inspiration from. The beginning of the journey to reach these incredible conclusions dates back to the 1960s, when Hellinger trained in Transactional Analysis, a therapy developed by psychiatrist Eric Berne that explores the life roles that people adopt.
Subsequently, Hellinger became involved with Systemic Family Therapy, which views the family as an interconnected system rather than focusing solely on the individual. Here, Hellinger worked under the mentorship of leading family therapists such as Virginia Satir and the co-creators of Structural Family Therapy, Salvador Minuchin and Jay Haley.
But perhaps the greatest influence for Hellinger came from his years spent as a Catholic missionary in South Africa among the Zulu in the 1980s. He witnessed Zulu shamanic rituals that emphasized the importance of family loyalties and honoring ties to ancestors. Hellinger was deeply impacted by how these beliefs shaped the well-being and destiny of families.
Integrating this knowledge with phenomenology, the philosophy that studies lived experience, Hellinger developed Family Constellations. He first publicly presented his approach in 1994. Since then, constellations have gained international recognition, although they have also faced criticism for lacking a solid scientific foundation.
But what are Family Constellations?
At the heart of Family Constellations is the belief that our well-being is intrinsically linked to our place and belonging within family systems. Hellinger postulates that when certain "laws of love" are violated within a family, such as the right to belong, the hierarchical order or the balance between giving and receiving, unconscious debts and loyalties are created that can be transmitted from generation to generation.
These "invisible loyalties" to ancestors who suffered injustices, who were excluded from the family or whose lives ended tragically, can lead us to unconsciously repeat their fates or take on their emotional burdens. This can manifest in dysfunctional relationship patterns, health problems, career blocks and other life challenges.
The goal of a Family Constellation is to make visible and release these energetic links and debts from the past. Through an experiential approach that incorporates the physical representation of family members, the facilitator seeks to re-establish the natural order of the family system in accordance with the above mentioned "laws of love".
It is believed that by giving a place of recognition and belonging to excluded or marginalized ancestors, blind loyalties are released and the flow of love and harmony within the family lineage is restored. This would produce a profound relief and sense of wholeness in the querent.
Constellations do not judge the past, but seek to create a respectful awareness of the family's shared destiny and facilitate the resolution of unresolved traumas. It is a unique approach to addressing issues from a multigenerational perspective.
Some Important Considerations
While Family Constellations can be a powerful and enlightening experience for some, it is also important to proceed with caution. It is recommended to thoroughly research the facilitator and to attend only sessions offered by trained and respected therapists. Keeping an open but skeptical mind can help avoid disappointment. In addition, here are 5 key points to keep in mind:
- Experiential approach, not miraculous promises: Approach Constellations with curiosity and without magical expectations of instant healing. It is a process of self-discovery, not a quick fix.
- Select an ethical and experienced facilitator: Research the facilitator's credentials and training. Opt for those with years of clinical experience and a strong code of ethics. Avoid facilitators with grandiose claims.
- Be emotionally prepared: Constellations can evoke deep emotions and insights. Be willing to face possible painful revelations about your family with courage and openness.
- Respect personal boundaries: Never feel pressured to disclose or recreate situations that make you uncomfortable. A good facilitator will respect your boundaries.
- Maintain skepticism: While Constellations offer an interesting perspective, remember that they lack solid scientific backing. Take what resonates with you and leave aside what does not.
In order to have a good experience it is advisable to proceed with caution, do thorough research and maintain a healthy skepticism and thus have an enriching and safe practice with Family Constellations.
