Meet Dr. Red

A woman with long brown hair, wearing a light blouse and black pants, sits smiling in an armchair. There are green plants, framed photos, and a cabinet in the background.
A certificate with a blue border awarded by the Southern California Psychiatric Society to Anita Red, M.D., for mentorship and leadership, dated May 2025. The President’s Commendation Award seal appears in the bottom right corner.
Certificate of Appreciation awarded to Anita D. Red, MD, for her generous AMPAC Capitol Club Silver contribution and support of the American Medical Association, signed by board members, with a blue ribbon seal at the bottom.
Certificate from the American Psychiatric Association awarded to Anita Red, MD, for outstanding mentorship of residents, fellows, and/or medical students in psychiatry, dated May 2025.

My Story

I’m a child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist driven by one belief: that compassion, science, and advocacy can transform lives.

Growing up in a low-income household in a small Texas suburb, I learned early that hope and hard work are powerful tools. My parents couldn’t offer much materially, but they gave me something far greater — unconditional love and the belief that I could achieve anything I set my mind to. That foundation, combined with a lifelong love of science, led me to medicine and ultimately to psychiatry.

In college, I began as a psychology major and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Biology and Chemistry. Before committing to medical school, I tested my passion for medicine by working as an EMT, phlebotomist, and ER intern. Once I began medical school at the University of Texas, I knew I had found my calling.

My passion for psychiatry began during rotations, when I worked with a child psychiatrist treating an eight-year-old girl who had suffered physical abuse. The image of a hot iron scar on her back remains with me to this day. Watching her heal through compassionate, evidence-based care revealed the profound power of psychiatry, and I knew then that this was the work I was meant to do.

Obstacles & Growth

Life has taught me that the journey matters more than the destination. The sleepless nights, rigorous exams, and emotional challenges of training shaped me into the physician I am today. Leaving my family, especially my two younger brothers, one with intellectual disabilities and another with severe ADHD, was one of the hardest parts of pursuing my dream.

Starting my own practice was another leap of faith, but it granted me the independence to deliver truly personalized, high-quality care. Every challenge has deepened my gratitude and strengthened my commitment to serve others.

My Work

As a physician trained in both mental and physical health, I treat, diagnose, and prescribe with a whole-person approach.

I don’t believe medication is the answer to everything, but rather a tool that supports patients in doing the deeper work toward wellness. My goal is always to empower individuals (children, teens, and adults alike) with the insight and tools to build better lives.

Few moments are more rewarding than seeing a patient “graduate” from care, thriving and ready to move forward.

What Sets Me Apart

Beyond my clinical work, I am a strong advocate for mental health reform on a national level. I serve as a California representative within the legislative branches of both the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP) and the American Psychiatric Association (APA).

I also sit on several national committees that drive policy change and raise funding for mental health initiatives.

In my practice, I integrate modern innovations such as:

  • Genetic (DNA) testing for personalized medication management
  • Tailored prescribing based on clinical and biological insights
  • Weight management support, addressing metabolic side effects from mood stabilizers

These tools allow me to deliver care that is both precise and compassionate.

What I’m Most Proud Of

  • Building a thriving private practice that prioritizes conscience, compassion, and personalized care
  • My family, who continue to inspire and ground me
  • Passing down the same values of resilience and empathy that shaped my own path

Mentorship

I’ve been fortunate to have incredible mentors throughout my journey, and I now strive to provide that same support to the next generation of psychiatrists. I believe there are no “stupid questions,” only opportunities to learn and grow together.

I was honored to receive the APA Resident-Fellow Mentor Award this year, which recognizes psychiatrists who go above and beyond in guiding trainees. Mentorship, to me, is not just an obligation, it’s a privilege and one of the most fulfilling parts of my career.

Featured Reviews

Amazing psychiatrist for adolescents. As a psychotherapist who specializes in adolescents, I have worked with many psychiatrists. Dr Red is my preferred psychiatrist because she takes time to listen to the client, the parents and the psychotherapist to determine the best course of treatment. She doesn't take a one pill fixes all approache. She is able to utilize lab testing to help determine which medication might be best tolerated.
Dr. Red is an outstanding, patient and empathetic psychiatrist. She is there for her patients and not for the money. Dr. Red validates your feelings and makes you feel important especially when you don’t. I recommend Dr. Red and her philosophy in helping her clients.
Dr. Red saved my daughters life seven years ago. She is a phenomenal doctor and I cannot say enough about what she did for us: Thank you Dr. Red:))

Schedule a Consultation

If you’re seeking a child, adolescent, or adult psychiatrist in the Pasadena area, contact our office today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Anita Red. Give us a call at 626-793-0141 to get started, or get in touch using our secure online form.