Being a part of society today is filed with challenges. Twenty percent of American children live in poverty, parents are divorcing at high rates unheard of just 5 years ago, and educational institutions are rarely able to fulfill their promise. Against this backdrop, children are often patronized or idealized and adults are rarely adequately prepared for parenthood. Few parents are we able to look past the surface and identify the strengths within their children that can serve as the foundation for their growth and development. Today, more than ever, it is critical to take a holistic approach in attempting to understand and treating the problems facing both children an their parents.