I have not worked specifically with someone regarding alcoholism. However, this question "Has anyone had experience or success with..." is to my mind, 2 completely separate questions. Many facilitators have worked with alcolholic clients. Bert has worked with so many in fact, that he was able to provide the general observation that "alcoholics miss their father". I see alcoholism as just another symptom like "I can't keep a job" or "I've always felt depressed", and would work on it within the constellation of the family. As far as "success" goes, I feel my attachment to "helping" or "changing" someone when I find myself thinking in those terms. I have no idea what "success" means to anyone, and I approach a constellation only with a spirit of discovery. How the discovered information may be used in the workings of another's life, is beyond what I actively explore. Sometimes a former client lets me know, and I do invite them to do so after a time passes, and if they feel so inclined. I consider myself succcessful in this work when I remain attentive to "what is", to what is being revealed by the field. I feel successful when I have had the courage to say what I see. I feel successful when a group gathers together in which I can show the strength and integrity of this work.
I found one reference to alcoholism in Bert's book Supporting Love, :
Participant: My husband is an alcoholic. I can't stay with someone who threatens me and is dependent on alcohol.
Hellinger: Yes, I think you're right. When one partner has a problem, such as alcoholism, he or she can't demand that the partner stay. He or she has to carry the consequences. If you confront him with the problem and say, "I'm leaving the alcohol problem with you and I'm going," perhaps he can change. He will carry the responsibility alone and get strength from that. It won't help him for you to stay with him.
Just a few thoughts, Diane.
All the best in the New Year!! sheila
Sheila Saunders, RN, MFT Systemic Family Solutions sheila@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx www.systemicfamilysolutions.com Great Smokies Medical Center of Asheville 1312 Patton Ave. Asheville, NC. 28806 828-273-5015