Recently, during a conversation with a friend, the topic of immigration to another country surfaced. Having made my own move in 2017, I was well-acquainted with the challenges and emotional rollercoaster that comes with relocating. It struck me that many of the individuals I work with have either recently immigrated themselves or come from families with a history of immigration. Interestingly, in the international Systemic Family Constellations training in Australia, the number of attendees who were born in one country and still reside there is remarkably low.

The subject of immigration extends beyond the physical act of moving; it delves deep into the emotional state that individuals often grapple with during and after the transition. It’s important to note that not everyone experiences this, but for those who do, it can be profoundly impactful.

What I’ve come to understand through my work with people, as well as from my own experience as an immigrant, is the profound sense of insecurity that often accompanies the process. Feelings of anxiety, worry, and despair can overwhelm individuals who find themselves in the limited space between the old life they left behind and the new one they are working to build.

In many cases, the unique talents and abilities that were highly regarded and fully utilized in their home countries are underappreciated or misunderstood in their new environment. It’s disheartening to hear phrases like, “You don’t have the right qualifications,” or “You’re not a good fit for us,” when these individuals were respected professionals back home—lawyers, doctors, teachers, financiers.

Through the process of constellation, we gain insight into where a person’s attention and energy are directed. It becomes apparent where they are truly living, psychologically and emotionally. For some, the past remains an unresolved burden, leading to a suppression of their talents and abilities rather than their continued development. The past becomes a weight to bear, rather than a resource to draw from.

Intriguingly, this phenomenon isn’t limited to those who have personally immigrated. Many individuals I’ve worked with are grappling with the unresolved experiences of their ancestors who faced similar challenges during migration. In these cases, I’ve observed recurring patterns: professional frustration, struggles with body image and excess weight, persistent feelings of displacement and inadequacy, and an insatiable wanderlust, even if the destination remains undefined.

To address these challenges, resources and strength are required. If immediate access to new resources is unavailable, it’s an opportune moment to tap into the wealth of old resources. Remarkably, these forgotten talents and abilities can serve as a source of renewed strength and resilience, allowing individuals to craft a fresh life path with a slightly different perspective.

It’s worth noting that, for many, a simple yet profound shift has begun to make a difference: regularly reflecting on what they are grateful for in their present day.

This practice has empowered many to regain their footing and navigate the emotional terrain of immigration with greater resilience and positivity.


Go Back to Systemic Constellations Case Studies