Frequently Asked Questions

How does a Group Family Constellation session work?

In group sessions, members of the group represent yourself and current family members or ancestors.  The session starts with a brief interview in which you state your goal or intention and describe briefly your concern and recurrent blocks or patterns.  We inquire about losses in the family system.  Once representatives have been set up, they tap in and share information that comes to them.  The rest of the session consists of healing movements both by the representatives reorganizing themselves in space in relation to each other and by healing words and visualizations

How does an individual Family Constellation session differ from those done in a group workshop?

In person, people and elements in your family system are represented by colored felt squares and circles.  The facilitator taps in and represents the various elements along with the client.  The rest of the movements and healing resolutions are essentially the same.

For virtual constellations, I use an app called Cecitool, designed specifically for Constellation work.  You will receive a link and both you and the facilitator will see the screen and be able to control the elements which are chosen to represent all the people and elements in your system.  Constellations can also be done as visualizations in the mind without the need for a physical representation with images or objects.  Physical distance between the facilitator and the client are not a barrier to an effective outcome.

Can Family Constellation Therapy help with life challenges?

Yes, this therapy addresses various life challenges, including relationship issues, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem issues, personal conflicts, and emotional struggles. It helps identify root causes and facilitates healing, leading to positive changes.

Do my family members need to be present in the sessions?

No they do not.  Actually, your family members do not even need to be aware that you are doing a constellation session.  The constellation is for you but often positively influences others in your world.

How many sessions are typically needed to see results?

Many times one session can get to the root and resolve an issue.  Life will unfold and other resources, decisions and actions can be pursued with greater clarity.  Other times further sessions after a period of integration can be done to continue growth or to address other issues.  Constellation work is quite different than counseling or psychotherapy which usually requires weekly sessions over an extended period of months or even years.

Can I attend a session if I'm new to Family Constellation Therapy?

Absolutely! Newcomers are welcome. The facilitator will guide you through the process, ensuring a supportive environment for exploration and healing.  You do not need to know the background or the process ahead of time.  The only thing required is an open mind and a willingness to explore and grow.

What should I expect during my first session?

Expect a welcoming atmosphere where you’ll discuss your concerns. The facilitator will explain the process and guide you through the session.  Your emotional safety is the most important concern and you are in control of the process including what you are willing to share and experience.

How do I prepare for a Family Constellation session?

Really the only preparation is to be able to answer the question “How do I hope to be better if this works?”  You do not need to research your family tree and know how things will unfold.  In fact, some people find their problems quite a mystery.  And constellations work even if you never knew anything about your biological ancestors or even your parents. 

Is Family Constellation Therapy suitable for all ages?

I work with individuals aged 16 and older.  For legal minors I require parental consent.  For issues concerning children, a parent can do a constellation for the issue without the child present. 

What are the costs of the sessions?

Each individual session is priced at $350. This fee reflects the personalized nature of our therapeutic services, ensuring you receive focused attention and support throughout your healing journey.

How long is each session?

Each individual session lasts 85-90 minutes. This duration allows for an in-depth exploration of your challenges, providing ample time for discussion and therapeutic intervention to support your healing journey.

I’m familiar with psychodrama. Is this the same thing ?

There are some overlaps as Bert Hellinger the founder of Family Constellations studied psychodrama during his time as a psychoanalyst and psychologist.  One major difference is that psychodrama deals with the known history in a client’s life.  Constellations will reveal what is unknown or hidden to the client.  It may also involve revealing information about inherited ancestral patterns and unresolved traumas from the distant past, sometimes many generations ago.  Another difference is that in constellation work it is not necessary to act out or emotionally reexperience events from the past.  Some facilitators even work in complete silence.