Family Constellations: A Practical Guide to Uncovering the Origins of Family Conflict

by Joy Manne

This user-friendly guide introduces a powerful therapeutic method that uses family history as a tool for understanding—and resolving—problems of the present
 
Mapping out a “family constellation,” explains Dr. Joy Manné, encompasses exploring previous powerful life events from accidents to adoptions and accessing the deepest dynamics in that family system. This process helps us recognize and then resolve deeply seated family patterns. For example, in order to understand a person’s inability to trust, the family history of betrayal must be uncovered and released. These insights replace resentment with respect, pain with understanding.
 
In this book, Dr. Manné uses the knowledge gained from her own practice as well as her educational experiences with Bert Hellinger—the founder of Family Constellations therapy—to clearly describe this unique therapeutic method. Most Family Constellation sessions are carried out in a group setting, with the facilitator first seeking clarity regarding the issue or problem the client has come to work out. Representatives are then chosen from among the group and the constellation is set up and worked in until it comes to resolution. This may be followed by a closing ritual and advice about how to integrate what the constellation has revealed. Through the use of real-life examples of Family Constellations, Dr. Manné makes this increasingly popular practice understandable and relatable.

Genres: Psychology, Self Help, Nonfiction

80 pages, Paperback

First published October 23, 2013

Reviews

[Katy]

This is a great introduction to Family Constellations! This is something I've only just recently learned about, and I was able to both observe and serve in a few Constellations about a week ago. It is fascinating to witness, and deeply moving. I found a knowledgeable and kind facilitator and hope to work with her soon on my own constellation.

I have been consuming everything I can find about family constellation work, and I really enjoyed how clearly this book laid it all out. It explains how you must be willing to face some uncomfortable truths, but that by doing so and accepting these truths and experiences as they are, deep healing can begin.

[Marian Homs]

I learned interesting facts about family constellations from this book that motivate me to continue reading Hellinger’s books. That being said, I found the case stories too simplistic, they left me wanting to know how the story developed and more details to gain more understanding.

[Andrea M]

Using case studies from her own work, Manne shows how people do not always struggle alone but often the burdens of a family are carried by all members. This explains how children may find themselves entangled in a parent's grief. Emotions often go unspoken but they affect everyone. This short book gives the reader a look into how those effects might manifest in a family.

[Jolanta]

In the field of family constellations, B.Hellinger is one of the brightest people. If you’ve read everything and want some more - J.Manne’s book is a way to go. B.Hellinger has written a foreword, and that speaks a lot. Using cases of her own work, J.Manne navigates us through family constellations. It’s a simple, yet informative, easy to read guide.

[Meghan Bonhomme]

A quick introduction to family constellations that makes it easy to understand the work. Some controversial perspectives on inclusion and gender. Would recommend to someone needing a fast insight to family constellations.

[Aneta Buckthought]

Good book

Simple and easy to read. Good guide for all those who are looking to more information about family constellations. Thank you

[Sequoia]

Don't know what to say about it. On one hand, I'm intrigued; on the other, some ideas feel really outdated and outrageous.

[Mihaela]

it’s good

I wish I could find the original book this reads like a short version.
It’s explained but I red the book in 2 days…
Good information but not enough.

[Zornitsa Maleva]

amazing book

[Kris Ang]

This easy to read book on the origins of family conflict has been my reference book and highly recommended book to those who are puzzled with the challenges in their lives. It's concepts are easy to grasp and the examples connects us to deeper understanding. I find myself enrolling into a session on family constellations to understand further.

This book helped me to have more empathy towards others and myself. And I've learned to embrace my challenges, honor my ancestors and learn to let go of what is not mine to hold.

A must have for those who wants to have insights into their lives.

[Heiki Eesmaa]

Really good, clear, concise -- at the same time insightful -- introduction to constellations.

[Rita]

Powerful, and insightful