Systemic

Family constellations

Sometimes you repeat patterns without knowing where they come from. Family constellations make unconscious family patterns visible and give you room to break them.

What are family constellations?

Family constellations are an experiential method that gives insight into unconscious patterns passed on from generation to generation. Every family or system has its own rules, roles and dynamics. Many of those are unspoken and are taken on without noticing.

In a constellation, other participants act as representatives for you and your family members. Without knowing your story, they sense something of the dynamics in your system. That can be surprising and revealing.

Family constellations are used as an addition to therapy, not as a replacement. They are useful when you notice you keep ending up in the same patterns, including in new situations or relationships.

Scientific basis: family constellations are an experiential method with a more limited formal evidence base than CBT or EMDR. They connect to attachment theory (Bowlby, 1969) and to intergenerational transmission of trauma. Qualitative research shows that participants report clearly increased insight and emotional relief. The method is used as an addition to evidence-based treatments, not as a replacement.

When can it help?

✓Recurring patterns in relationships that you do not understand

✓Difficulties within your family or with your parents

✓Questions about loyalty, guilt or unprocessed family sorrow

✓Situations where earlier therapy did not seem to reach the core

Related complaints

Attachment issues Relationship problems Trauma Grief Parent and child relationship

Related treatments

Systemic therapy Schema therapy EMDR Couples therapy

Frequently asked questions

Do I have to bring my actual family? +

No. In a family constellation, other participants act as representatives. Your actual family does not need to be present.

Are family constellations scientifically proven? +

Family constellations are regarded as an experiential method. The scientific evidence is more limited than for CBT or EMDR, but many people experience it as a powerful addition to other therapy.

Who is it for? +

For people who run into recurring patterns in relationships or at work and want to understand where those come from.

Getting started

Ready for a first conversation?

Book an intake with a certified provider. Together you will look at whether family constellations are the right approach for your situation.

Book an intake Other treatments

Family constellations are not reimbursed care.

Sources: Hellinger (1998), Love's Hidden Symmetry · Bowlby (1969), Attachment and Loss · NVRG systemic therapy guidelines