Professional Field and Concerns

Family Constellations have many layers, reflecting the many sources from which they grew; Bert Hellinger was a Catholic priest and missionary, a student of psychotherapy and German poetry, and now spends as much time writing as teaching. Descriptions of Constellations vary from clinical to mystical—which can of course lead to disagreements about the place and explanation of the work. Therapists see a new supplemental modality where spiritual teachers see a new way of imparting wisdom, healers see new energetic pathways where art-lovers see new imaginative expressions. All the same, people from many backgrounds find the work gripping and are eager to explore their family lines in this collaborative, creative manner.

Family Constellations can be seen in the United States as a complementary mind and body practice. While the experience can be a fabulous addition to a client’s other ongoing work, it unfolds on its own distinct terms. Currently, there is not a central registry or formal training program in the U.S. Suzi Tucker offers guided study but does not believe that a particular sequence of techniques or evaluations will guarantee or gauge the effectiveness of a facilitator’s work. As Family Constellations spread in the U.S., the professional terrain will undoubtedly shift, as it has in Europe and Latin America, where Constellations are now firmly established in a variety of public, academic, and clinical settings. Throughout the work’s evolution, Suzi Tucker remains committed to holding a supportive, respectful space, honoring the backgrounds, resources, paths, and beliefs of all participants.

Constellations by definition stir emotions and call for supportive touch; participants are expected and encouraged to take care by excusing themselves if they ever feel uncomfortable, and any who need to are free to come with their doctor or therapist. Participants also agree to leave the confidential contents of constellations in the room where they were shared. Finally, Constellations are profound as a positive, personal, yet widely applicable philosophical practice, and do not involve the diagnosis or treatment of mental and emotional disorders (where a facilitator promises otherwise, make sure you understand their approach and qualifications).