Exploring the Varieties of Constellation Work
Family Constellations, as developed by Bert Hellinger, have evolved into a broad therapeutic practice with various adaptations and applications. Since its inception, this approach has been embraced worldwide, with facilitators modifying it to suit different needs and contexts. The term “Family Constellations” is often used interchangeably with “Systemic Constellations,” as the approach has expanded beyond just family dynamics to include other systems, such as organizations, communities, and more. So, how many types or “constellation families” are there?
1. Traditional Family Constellations
The original and most widely recognized form of constellation work is Family Constellations. Developed by Bert Hellinger, this method focuses on uncovering hidden family dynamics, unresolved traumas, and entanglements passed down through generations. By exploring the connections within the family system, and in the wider context of society, country and culture, participants can gain insights into how their present challenges may be linked to past family experiences. This method works through identifying patterns that often go unnoticed, such as emotional burdens that have been passed down from one family member to another.
2. Systemic Constellations
Systemic Constellations is an expanded version of Family Constellations that applies the same principles to any system, not just family structures. This can include businesses, organizations, communities, or even societal issues. Systemic Constellations look at how systems function as a whole, exploring the relationships between different elements or people within that system. It’s widely used to resolve conflicts in workplaces, improve team dynamics, and explore leadership roles. While it still incorporates the familial approach, it extends far beyond personal family issues to larger, more complex systems.
3. Organizational Constellations
A subtype of Systemic Constellations is Organizational Constellations, which is specifically designed for use in business and corporate environments. Facilitators use this method to examine how the relationships between different departments, employees, or management structures may be causing problems or inefficiencies within the organization. Organizational Constellations are used to address leadership struggles, employee conflicts, and strategic business decisions. These constellations help people see hidden structures that influence workplace dynamics and guide organizations toward healthier, more productive interactions.
4. Health Constellations
Another adaptation is Health Constellations, which focuses on the physical and emotional well-being of an individual. This type of constellation explores how illnesses, chronic conditions, or emotional distress may be linked to family patterns or unresolved issues within the system. By mapping out the individual’s relationship with their health, facilitators help participants understand how family history, trauma, or unacknowledged emotions may be contributing to their current health challenges. Health Constellations aim to bring awareness to these connections and open the door to healing.
5. Nature and Environmental Constellations
A newer and less widespread adaptation is Environmental or Nature Constellations. These constellations explore humanity’s relationship with the natural world and environmental issues. Participants may explore how their community interacts with nature or how collective environmental challenges are affecting them on an individual level. This approach offers a way to address issues like climate change, natural resource depletion, or the spiritual connection between humans and the Earth.
6. Equine-Assisted Constellations
In Equine-Assisted Constellations, horses are integrated into the therapeutic process due to their natural sensitivity to human emotions and energy. Horses act as intuitive “representatives,” reflecting the emotional or relational dynamics being explored. Their non-verbal feedback can offer powerful insights into family dynamics and unresolved trauma, particularly for those who feel connected to animals or nature. This approach provides a safe and nurturing environment, allowing participants to experience healing through the deep, intuitive wisdom of horses.
7. Spiritual Constellations
While all constellations inherently have a spiritual aspect, Spiritual Constellations focus more specifically on questions of soul, purpose, and the existential aspects of human life. Participants may explore questions about life direction, meaning, or even relationships with higher powers. These constellations provide a space for deep, spiritual exploration, often addressing how family systems and ancestral patterns influence a person’s connection to their sense of purpose or spirituality.
8. Contemporary Constellations / Field Therapy
Elena Veselago is a renowned therapist based in Moscow who specialises in Field Therapy, as her style of Family Constellations is known in Russia. Having studied with Bert Hellinger and several leading European teachers, Elena has gone on to train thousands of practitioners in this transformative work. As both a shamanic healer and a beloved teacher of my teacher, Sarah Peyton, Elena’s unique integration of systemic constellations and shamanic practices offers a deep, soulful approach to healing. I have had the privilege of training with her in Contemporary Constellations, and her teachings have profoundly shaped my own practice.
Conclusion
Family Constellations, as a therapeutic practice, have evolved far beyond their original format. Today, the method has diversified into several distinct types, each addressing different systems, from personal family issues to organizational dynamics and health concerns. Whether you’re exploring traditional Family Constellations, Systemic Constellations, or other specialized types, the principles remain the same: by illuminating hidden dynamics and relationships, constellations help us understand the root causes of our challenges and guide us toward healing and resolution.
This versatility makes Family Constellations a powerful tool, applicable in many contexts, each offering a unique lens through which to explore and resolve issues. From the micro level of family relationships to the macro level of societal or environmental challenges, there’s a constellation for nearly every system we are a part of.
Lucy Ascham is a Family Constellations facilitator, working with Systemic and Health issues, and further Contemporary Constellations work since 2019. Lucy offers private sessions in person in Sheffield and Manchester, and online worldwide and runs regular group workshops in Sheffield, Manchester, London and Somerset.
