In the Constellation Approach, the client is invited by the facilitator to select representatives for the major figures in their family of origin and presenting issue. The client then places these representatives – silently and intuitively - in particular positions around the central working area. When complete, the client sits with the facilitator and the process begins. Some time is needed for each participant to feel the energies of those they are representing, and then the facilitator asks some, or all, of the constellation members what they are feeling. Often their responses appear to reflect an uncanny reality of the client's family situation, and a more complete picture of the family reality begins taking shape. In this way, the hidden entanglements of the family come to light. These entanglements reveal that in order to maintain balance in the family, we usually pay a very high price - a kind of "blind love."

The Process:

When a client looks at and takes in the family constellation configuration, a veil seems to be lifted and deeper truths - ones they know on a subconscious level but cannot acknowledge in the larger context - begin to appear. At this point, the facilitator might move certain representatives to different positions in relation to each other, and then ask how the new positions have affected their feelings. When the "right" positioning is found, there is often a visible relief and relaxation on the part of the representatives, and the client may also begin relaxing and softening as the constellation moves.

This is known as the rebalancing aspect of the approach, the point of finding the hidden symmetry, or order, of the family system. This is a unique constellation pattern for the client that is comfortable and begins helping them feel at peace. Without an open acknowledgement and expression of this order, love cannot flow freely in the family system and presenting issues remain un-addressed and unresolved. At this point, the facilitator may stop the constellation or continue further. Occasionally the facilitator and client simply sit side-by-side and view the constellation. Often just acknowledging what is and seeing a different reality of the client's family is enough to begin a healing process. If the facilitator continues to the next step, the client may take their place in the constellation or stay seated.

The Use of Words:

The following portion usually involves the client or the client's representative saying particular "statements of empowerment", (sometimes referred to as solution sentences) to representatives in the group. Eventually the language begins following an energetic pathway of sacredness and ancient healing methods with phrases such as "You are the right one for me," "I will bear it myself, and now you are free," "I will hold a place for you in my heart," or "I respect your fate, and I remain with mine." Such sentences hold enormous energy for healing our deepest level of soul injury. When words are used with reverence and truth, a resonance or vibration is felt within all constellation participants as well as the larger group. The sentences may be said to just one other representative with whom the client has the most energetic charge, or they may need to say things to all members of the constellation. When the right solution sentences are found, it is evident: a deep sigh is felt in the room and often tears and a heart opening experience happen for the client. These statements of empowerment and healing movements bring the family soul into a healthier state of conscious awareness, referred to as "enlightened love."