Családállítás angolul Budapesten: English-language Constellation Work in Budapest
An Overview of Its Principles and Practice
Family Constellation Therapy, also known as Systemic Constellation, Systemic Family Constellation, or Hellinger Therapy, is an intuitive and non-scientific therapeutic method practiced globally. This distinctive approach integrates elements from various psychological and therapeutic traditions, including Janov’s primal therapy (now less commonly practiced), Eric Berne’s transactional analysis, Virginia Satir’s family reconstruction, Ivan Boszormenyi-Nagy’s contextual family therapy, and Jacob Moreno’s psychodrama. At its core, Family Constellation Therapy seeks to uncover and address the hidden dynamics within family systems. However, as of now, Hungary does not officially recognize systemic constellation work as a form of psychotherapy.
The philosophical underpinnings of systemic constellation work are rooted in existential phenomenology. This framework emphasizes the significance of perceiving phenomena in their pure form, untainted by preconceptions or judgments. As such, systemic constellation therapy aligns with „here-and-now” group methodologies, such as Gestalt therapy, psychodrama, and somatic therapies, which prioritize present-moment awareness and experiential engagement.
The introduction of systemic constellation work in Hungary is attributed to Bert Hellinger (1925–2019), a former priest and psychotherapist. Hellinger spent 16 years in South Africa, where he observed and participated in Zulu tribal rituals. These experiences deepened his appreciation for the roles of familial and communal laws, as well as the enduring significance of ancestral ties.
As Gemma B. Benton eloquently expressed:
„Our ancestors knew that healing comes in cycles and circles.
One generation carries the pain so that the next can live and heal.
One cannot live without the other; each is the other’s hope, meaning, and strength.”
Hellinger’s Systemic Laws
Hellinger’s most notable contribution to family systems therapy lies in his identification of fundamental systemic principles that govern family dynamics:
-
The Need/Right to Respect Reality
Acceptance of reality as it is fosters healing. Conversely, systems rooted in preconceptions, false beliefs, or denial of truth become dysfunctional. -
The Need/Right to Belong
Every individual born into a family has an inherent and inalienable right to be acknowledged as part of that system. When a family member is excluded—whether due to wrongdoing, immorality, or other reasons—their symbolic or literal denial disrupts the system’s equilibrium. -
The Need/Right to Maintain Balance in Giving and Receiving
Healthy family systems strive to maintain a balance between giving and receiving, ensuring that contributions and benefits are equitably distributed across members. -
The Need/Right for Order
A natural hierarchy exists within family systems, wherein precedence is given to those who came earlier. Elders or those born first hold a seniority that is foundational to the system’s structure.
When these systemic principles are violated—intentionally or unintentionally—the family system attempts to restore balance, often through compensatory mechanisms. This can manifest as a phenomenon known as repetition compulsion, a concept originally identified by Freud in individual psychology. In systemic constellation work, repetition compulsion is observed on a broader, transgenerational scale. Here, recurring patterns, or “family scripts,” may span multiple generations, influencing descendants through unresolved familial issues related to marriage, death, birth, war, immigration, famine, or chronic physical or mental health challenges.
Systemic constellation sessions aim to uncover these implicit transgenerational dynamics. By revealing unresolved issues, this therapeutic method addresses the root causes of challenges affecting current family members.
Group and Individual Approaches
Group Constellations
In group settings, representatives embody family members, emotions, abstract concepts, or even places. A common question arises: how can unrelated individuals effectively represent unknown entities? Some theorists, such as Dr. Rupert Sheldrake, suggest this phenomenon may be explained by morphic resonance or the presence of a morphic field.
Individual Constellations
For individual sessions, the methodology mirrors that of group work but employs physical markers—such as stones, figurines, or floor placeholders—to represent the relevant elements. The constellator facilitates the process, addressing the client’s specific concerns and areas of focus.
Conclusion
Systemic constellation work offers a profound lens through which to explore the complexities of family systems and their transgenerational influences. While not universally recognized as a formal psychotherapeutic method, its unique approach has garnered significant attention and application worldwide.
For more insights into systemic constellation therapy, please visit our website. If you wish to learn more or apply for a session, feel free to contact us directly via email: integrativ.itt@gmail.com
Editor: Móni Kálmán