what are systemic constellations?
Systemic constellations, developed by the German philosopher and psychotherapist Bert Hellinger, provide a solution-focused process for addressing personal, family, social and organisational issues. Constellations work by identifying, illuminating and offering healing resolutions to many seemingly intractable issues whose roots often lie deep in the unconscious areas of our own family and social systems (hence systemic constellations).
This systemic approach differs from other therapeutic approaches in that it explores each person’s intrinsic place in the groups or systems to which they belong, rather than simply focusing on the individual in an isolated way. These 'systems’ may be our current family or our family of origin, our workplace or even the environment in which we live.
To read an article about constellations published in Wave Magazine please click here.
who benefits from systemic constellations?
Systemic constellations can help with a wide range of issues including family and relationship difficulties, divorce, family secrets, violence and loss; illness, eating disorders, addictions; adoption, abortion, infertility and ongoing emotional symptoms such as unhappiness, rage, limitation, depression or lack of motivation.
Whilst we each have our own personal history we are also, inevitably, deeply connected with our wider familial, social and cultural history which exerts a strong, and often unacknowledged, influence over us. Exploring this entanglement through systemic constellations can offer remarkable insight into otherwise apparently intractable issues.
To read testimonials from workshop attendees and clients please follow this link.
what happens at a constellations workshop?
At a systemic constellations workshop participants wishing to explore an issue are invited to set up a constellation using members of the group to represent members of whatever system they are working on – this may be in relation to a personal issue, a family issue, a career or business issue. By creating a “living map” of an issue, dynamic or situation, simple but hidden truths can be seen and understood, giving new insight and opportunities for change and movement. Both acting as a ‘representative’ and being an issue-holder at a constellations workshop can give profound insights and healing opportunities.
family constellations & the hoffman quadrinity process
Family constellations support the Hoffman Process beautifully, offering insight and healing for our tender personal issues whilst shedding light on the family patterns and entanglements that influence them. A constellations workshop is highly recommended as a 'next step' in personal development.
Gaye, a Hoffman graduate herself, will be running a series of workshops for Hoffman graduates and others with senior Hoffman teacher Matthew Pruen, who has also trained as a family constellations facilitator.
"I am delighted that Matthew Pruen and Gaye Donaldson are able to offer Hoffman graduates a chance to work with family constellations next year. My own experience of this work, both personally and with on-going Hoffman Institute affairs, has been powerfully affecting and impressive. This work has helped us diagnose vital, underlying issues that have held back our growth and shed light on healing possibilities that had previously remained obscure. I wholeheartedly recommend these workshops to any Hoffman graduate wanting to deepen their Process experience and look forward to working with them again next year." Serena Laurence, UK Hoffman Director
do I have to attend a workshop to do systemic work?
No. Gaye also offers individual systemic therapy and coaching using systemic tools; for those who prefer not to work in a group setting this can be a very useful alternative to workshops and a powerful form of short-term therapy. Please contact Gaye for further details about individual sessions.
organisational constellations
In the workplace constellations can shed light on questions about direction or the next step, staff motivation, profitability, interpersonal dynamics and conflict.
To arrange a constellations workshop anywhere in the UK for your organisation or for professional purposes please contact Gaye using the booking form.
training in systemic constellations
Gaye is a director and faculty member of the Centre for Systemic Constellations. Founded in 2001, the Centre offers training and professional development in systemic constellations. For further information please visit the Centre's website www.centreforsystemicconstellations.com.
