This article describes the ways in which I have tried, primarily as a policy researcher, to bring an advocacy perspective to my own work and, in collaboration with others, engage in efforts to improve the lives of children experiencing emotional and behavioral challenges as well as the lives of their families. It is organized in 3 sections. The 1st section highlights my early career path and its relation to advocacy. The 2nd section summarizes the policy research I have conducted that has given me a broad understanding of children's mental health. The 3rd highlights lessons for advocates and my view of critical recommendations for the future.