What is Systemic Counselling?
Systemic counselling (sometimes called family constellation work) explores the deeper patterns and dynamics that shape our lives, often without our awareness. These patterns arise not only from family but also from other systems we belong to, influencing how we relate, make decisions, and carry emotions. Sometimes we unknowingly take on burdens or repeat behaviours from the past.
Roots of the Work:
This approach was developed by Bert Hellinger, who spent 16 years as a missionary and teacher among the Zulu people in South Africa. Their emphasis on community, ritual, and belonging influenced his later work, alongside his training in psychotherapy and group dynamics.
At the heart of the systemic perspective is the understanding that we are part of larger systems, and those systems profoundly shape us.
Constellations in Groups:
Traditionally, constellation work is done in groups, where representatives stand in for family members, emotions, or abstract elements, creating a living map of the system. Through movement and presence, hidden dynamics can be revealed and shifts may occur.
My Approach - One-on-One:
I currently offer one-on-one sessions. These apply the same systemic principles in a more personal way. Facilitators may use figurines, floor markers, or guided visualisations to represent a system.
My way of working is through dialogue. Rather than placing objects or asking you to imagine positions, we listen closely together for the systemic language, patterns, and dynamics that are shaping your experience. The conversation itself becomes the constellation. As words and themes take shape, a picture of the system comes into view, bringing clarity and opening new perspectives.
At times, I may also bring in gentle somatic tools such as breathwork or meditations, using the body as a doorway into awareness and integration. These practices help what emerges in dialogue to settle more deeply, so that shifts can be felt not only in the mind but also in the body.
An Influence - Osho:
A particular influence on how I work comes from Osho’s approach to meditation. In some branches of constellation work inspired by Osho, meditation is woven into the process itself, supporting integration and grounding after a session. This perspective has been a strong inspiration for me, and I sometimes draw on his active, body-based meditations as part of the systemic process.