"The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders" ("DSM") is useful for children and families for three practical reasons: (1) It provides a way to communicate about emotional and behavioral problems of youth in a common language; (2) Parents can get an Individual Education Plan (IEP) for a child if that process requires a psychiatric diagnosis. (3) In order to have treatment paid for by insurance, a diagnosis is usually necessary. Beyond that, "DSM" helps professionals interpret research about problems. This article is based on an interview with Marcia Kent by the editors of "Reclaiming Children and Youth," and discusses how a child and adolescent psychiatrist turns diagnoses into strengths.