Settings for family constellation therapy
Family constellation therapy is often performed in group settings, but there are also family constellation therapists who work with individuals. You can search for a family constellation therapist or workshop online.
Some settings for family constellation therapy include:
- Conference centers offering workshops
- Churches
- Universities
- Community counseling centers
Private counseling or therapy practices
Group family constellation workshops are likely to be held in conference centers or at churches or universities, whereas individual sessions can be conducted at community or private counseling centers. Some counselors and therapists may employ concepts from family constellation therapy in their work.
Issues treated with family constellations
Family constellation therapy has been found to be beneficial for treating a variety of mental problems along with emotional and social problems, including:
- Poor self-image
- Self-doubt
- Self confidence issues
- Relationship problems
- Psychological distress
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Paranoid behavior/schizophrenia
- Suicidal thoughts
- Fatigue
- Marital distress
- Poor health and well being
- Personality disorders
Based on what is known about family constellation therapy, this approach is beneficial for treating a wide variety of psychosocial problems.
By uncovering unhealthy family dynamics, the approach can help people to heal from whatever is holding them back, whether it be a mental health condition or difficulties with self-concept.
Are family constellations effective?
A rather large body of research shows that family constellation therapy is effective in addressing psychological problems.
It has been shown to improve overall health and well-being, and it reduces psychological distress as well as symptoms of mental health disorders, according to multiple studies conducted with constellation therapy.
That being said, there is no single treatment modality that works for everyone. You may find family constellation therapy to be beneficial, but in some cases, people do not experience significant improvement with this modality. If family constellation therapy isn’t a good fit for you, there are other therapeutic modalities available.
A mental health professional can help you to decide upon the best treatment option for your unique situation.
Criticism of family constellations
While family constellation work is beneficial, this model is not without criticism. In fact, Bert Hellinger’s family constellation work has been criticized for being potentially misogynistic and homophobic.
There is also some evidence of victim blaming in his work, which doesn’t align well with the values of mental health professions like psychology and social work.
For example, some critics argue that family constellation therapy treats homo s e x u a l i t y as if it is a disease or problem that needs to be cured. Others have pointed out that Hellinger holds patriarchal views and seems to blame the wife for problems in a family.
There have also been critics who assert that Hellinger blamed victims by encouraging them to “thank” their adults for the experience.
While these criticisms may have some basis in reality, some people state that Hellinger’s viewpoints are taken out of context.
Regardless of where the truth lies, therapists and counselors who use family constellations today are bound by ethics codes that prohibit discrimination. Family constellation therapists are able to reject notions like homophobia and s e x i s m and work effectively with diverse groups of people.
Takeaway
If you’re struggling with an emotional or mental health problem, or you’re having difficulty in your relationships, you may benefit from working with a family constellation therapist.
With this treatment, you may discover new insights into your problems and develop the tools needed to heal. Search for a family constellation therapist online today, or contact your local mental health board to learn more about mental health services in your area.
If you’re a practitioner and this modality seems interesting to you, you can learn how to become a family constellation therapist by completing a certification program. Information is available online
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