Developed by Bert Hellinger, a German psychotherapist and psychoanalyst, in the 1990s, Family Constellation work has its origins in the practices of the Zulu people and Western therapeutic approaches. As we know and practice Constellations today, it is an alternative form of therapy and a life practice.

The conventional setting involves a seated circle of individuals who gather, offering their awareness and presence and thus creating, what practitioners refer to as, "the (Knowing) Field". This energy field is where the work takes place, whether conducted in a group or private setting. In the virtual format, the exploration of this field expands into new dimensions, maintaining the same core principles. 

At its core, Family Constellations rests on the notion that the issues and patterns we encounter in our daily lives (either on the surface or in the subconscious) are intricately connected to and deeply rooted in our family system.  The work involves building awareness of these connections, a process continually facilitated through this therapeutic approach.

​The work was initially developed in a group setting (as it is still mostly practiced today), placing significant emphasis on the concept that when one individual shares and works on their issues and narratives, it is intended to benefit all participants in their own healing journey. This work primarily revolves around listening to movements. The process begins with a "seeker," an individual with a specific issue, posing a question to the facilitator. The facilitator guides a process of "setting up" other participants from the circle (termed "representatives") in the center of the circle, known as "the Field."

These representatives then follow their impulses, offering insight into hidden dynamics and ultimately leading to profound healing movements—referred to by Bert Hellinger as "movements of the soul." The process is intuitive, non-biased, and fosters a connection with one's authenticity, inner wisdom, and soul force as the catalyst for change.

Participants may either have their own constellation set up or serve as representatives in others' constellations. It is crucial to note that this work is not only energy work but soul work, residing not in the intellect but within the depths of the soul. In German, Constellation work is also known as "Seelenarbeit" ("soul work")