All modalitiesDoreen SoansGet Started
05 / 07Experiential systemic practice

A systemic view of inherited patterns

Family Constellation

Family Constellation creates a visual, spatial representation of a relationship system. I use simple markers or objects to help us see positions, distances and loyalties that can be difficult to notice when we only talk about them.

Ask about this approach

What it is—and what it is not.

We begin with one clear concern, represent relevant people or themes in space, and observe the associations that arise. These are treated as possibilities for reflection—not supernatural knowledge, historical proof or statements about absent family members.

How we may work with it.

This is a flexible map, not a script. I adapt the process to your comfort, goals and response in the room.

  1. 01

    Define one question

    We identify the recurring relationship, family tension or inherited pattern you want to see more clearly.

  2. 02

    Map the system

    Using objects, paper markers or positions, we represent the people and elements most relevant to your question.

  3. 03

    Observe without forcing

    We notice distance, direction, emotion and association, holding every interpretation lightly and checking it against your experience.

  4. 04

    Return to your own place

    We close by identifying what belongs to you, what may not, and one grounded way to carry the insight forward.

Places this conversation can go.

This may be meaningful if you think visually, feel caught in a repeating family role, or want to explore your concern from a wider systemic perspective.

  • 01Recurring relationship dynamics
  • 02Belonging, loyalty and exclusion
  • 03Roles you repeatedly take within a family
  • 04Grief, separation and family transitions
  • 05Transgenerational stories and inherited expectations

What the research says

Useful context, without overselling.

A 2021 systematic review found signals of benefit across 12 studies, but concluded that the quantity and overall quality of evidence were low. A 2026 preprint re-analysis argued that randomised evidence remains insufficient. Small numbers of participants in earlier studies also reported minor or moderate negative effects.

My care boundary

Your wellbeing comes before the method.

I do not treat what emerges as factual information about another person or your family history. We work with your experience, consent and present choices. The process can be emotionally activating, so pacing and closure matter.

Before you decide.

Does my family need to attend?

No. Individual sessions can use objects or markers to represent people and themes. The work is about your perspective, not diagnosing anyone who is absent.

Will it reveal a hidden family truth?

No. The arrangement may spark associations or insight, but it cannot verify events, motives or memories. Any interpretation remains tentative.

How long is a session?

A focused Family Constellation session can take up to two hours, allowing time to set the question, complete the process and close carefully.

Go beyond the summary.

I believe you deserve enough context to make an informed choice. These links include original method descriptions and independent research where it is available.

  1. 01Effectiveness of Family Constellation TherapyPubMed · 2021 systematic review
  2. 02Family Constellations for clinical conditionsmedRxiv · 2026 preprint review
  3. 03Trauma-informed principlesSAMHSA

Still wondering whether this is right for you?

You do not have to choose a method before we speak.

Start a private enquiry