Despite their greatest efforts many people struggle to live their lives to the fullest and to relate well in their closest family relationships. Some describe the experience as if there are powerful forces that seem to thwart them in their lives, and feel entangled within the dynamics of their family as if in a spider’s web. These dynamics are like the wind. The wind is not visible but its presence is felt from the disturbance it leaves in its wake and it’s impact on our body and senses. Entanglements in family dynamics can result in relationship difficulties between partners, between parents and children, between siblings, and other important relationships. They can also contribute to other difficulties such as addictions, illnesses and negative repetitive patterns in our lives.When we think psychologically, we normally attribute these problems to negative attitudes or our upbringing.
Entanglements in family dynamics can result in relationship difficulties between partners, between parents and children, and between siblings. They can also contribute to other difficulties such as addictions, illnesses and negative repetitive patterns in our lives.
When we think psychologically we normally attribute these problems to negative attitudes or our upbringing. Twenty five years ago Bert Hellinger developed a method using constellations, to reveal hidden dynamics within the family, which he called “The Orders of Love”. When the natural order becomes distorted by external forces such as an early death, the negative entanglements can persist for several generations.
Constellation work is a process by which systemic influences on a person are made visible. In setting up a constellation, a participant selects people to represent his or her family members and moves them around the room until their relative positions reflect the participants experience of his or her family. When this movement is done silently and with respect, the representatives report experiences similar to those of the original family members. The dynamics of the family relationship can be observed. The facilitator works in a highly respectful manner to bring to awareness blocks that prevent love from flowing to all members of the system.
About Family Constellation Work
Family Constellations is a powerful therapeutic method developed by German psychotherapist Bert Hellinger in the late 20th century. It focuses on uncovering and healing deep-seated family dynamics that influence individuals’ lives across generations. By visually mapping out relationships and interactions among family members—both living and deceased—participants can identify unresolved traumas and emotional entanglements that may be impacting their current well-being.
In Sydney, Family Constellations has gained recognition for its effectiveness in addressing a range of issues, from chronic emotional struggles to relationship problems and even physical ailments. The therapy works on the principle that many personal difficulties stem from the unhealed wounds of ancestors, which are unconsciously passed down through generations. By bringing these hidden patterns to light, individuals can experience profound healing and personal growth.
Sessions often involve a group setting where participants represent various family members or elements within the system. Through this process, underlying issues are revealed, leading to a shift in perception and resolution. This method is especially beneficial for those who feel stuck in repetitive life patterns or are unable to find the root cause of their distress.
Maria Dolenc, a respected Family Constellation Facilitator in Sydney, offers these sessions to help individuals break free from generational cycles and foster healthier, more fulfilling lives. Her expertise in this field allows clients to explore and resolve deep-rooted issues, leading to transformative change and emotional freedom.
Seeing Through the Eyes of the Spirit Mind – A Recording from the 2019 Australasian Constellation Intensive
Family Constellations: An interview with Gestalt Therapist Maria Dolenc
Clinton Power, founder of australiacounselling.com.au speaks with Maria Dolenc of mariadolenc.com.au about Family Constellations- what it is and how they work.