This handbook discusses different types of disorders, mental health services, and school services. The first section highlights the importance of parental advocacy and family support networks. This is followed by a discussion of the plight of parents who have a child with an emotional or behavioral disorder and the perspective of a child with emotional problems. Different types of emotional and behavioral disorders are then described. Sections of the book address: (1) considerations parents should evaluate before deciding whether a child's behavior is normal or not; (2) types of professionals that provide mental health services; (3) selecting a mental health provider; (4) some of the different philosophies and therapies; (5) kinds of services parents should consider; (6) services schools should provide (describes special education and related services, evaluation, the Individualized Education Program, academic accommodations, suspensions and expulsions, and federal law); (7) financial considerations; and (8) finding parental support and engaging in child advocacy. A list of relevant organizations is provided, along with a list of parent training and information centers, state Medicaid offices, and the core values and principles for the CASSP system of care. (CR)