The purpose of this qualitative study is to better understand how children identify with superheroes to allow counselors to have a basis of understanding to inform their use of superheroes in therapeutic settings. The research questions are: (1) How do children ages 3-6 identify with their favorite superhero? and (2) how is children's self-concept related to their identified superhero? A multiple case study design was used to answer these research questions, focusing on five cases. Data were collected through child observation, interviews with the children, parents, and teachers, and drawings by the children. In Manuscript 1, four cases were analyzed, which produced the following themes: (a) fulfilling a need, (b) representing an ideal version of self, (c) transforming into superheroes through costumes, props, and play, and (d) blending reality and fiction. Results have implications for how clinical mental health and school counselors could use superheroes as a therapeutic intervention. The last case was analyzed in Manuscript 2, which answered the questions of how the participants identified with her favorite superhero, and how this related to her self-concept. Four themes emerged: (a) representation of an ideal self, (b) contrast of good and evil, (c) connection with others, and (d) blending of reality and fantasy. The findings from both manuscripts have implications for clinical mental health and school counselors to use superheroes as a therapeutic intervention when working with children. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://bibliotheek.ehb.be:2222/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]