Gin Cooley: From High Fashion to High-Impact Psychology, A Renaissance Journey of Service and Scholarship
Gin Cooley has transformed a successful career in international modeling into an influential role in psychology, making waves as both a therapeutic expert and an advocate for those in need. A former runway model for elite designers and now a clinical leader, Cooley exemplifies resilience and dedication, harnessing her diverse experiences to help communities and individuals facing challenging life circumstances. From her beginnings in rural Tennessee to international runways, and now as a prominent psychologist addressing the opioid crisis, leading treatment initiatives, and working with high-profile criminal cases, Cooley has forged a path that stands as a testament to her commitment to making a difference.
Her initial rise to prominence in fashion began early, securing her first modeling contract at 16 with BMG Chicago. By 17, Cooley’s career was in full stride internationally, represented by Elite Model Management in Singapore. Just months later, she walked for Christian Dior and went on to model for brands like Gucci, Prada, and Alexander McQueen. The young model thrived in the competitive European fashion circuit, regularly appearing in major fashion shows in Milan, New York, and Paris. Yet, Cooley felt drawn to pursue a more impactful calling, ultimately shifting her focus from the runway to the classroom and, later, to therapeutic practice. In the United States, she resumed her education with a passion for psychology, beginning a journey that would reshape her career and purpose.
Photo Courtesy: “Gin” Cooley-Ridings
Today, Cooley is a widely respected psychologist and treatment director who brings her expertise to underserved communities, prison facilities, and foster care programs. Her clinical work is especially recognized for tackling the opioid crisis, a role that holds both personal significance and public importance. Over the past five years, she has taken the lead in rural Tennessee to combat opioid addiction by partnering with local correctional facilities and developing intensive outpatient programs (IOPs) specifically designed to meet the needs of these vulnerable communities. In these areas, access to specialized resources remains limited, and Cooley’s efforts have been pivotal in expanding the availability of evidence-based treatments for those affected by addiction and mental health challenges.
In addition to her efforts in addiction treatment, Cooley has recently been appointed as the Treatment Director of a foster care program in Kentucky. This role places her at the helm of initiatives focused on supporting some of the vulnerable populations—children in the foster care system who have often experienced trauma and instability. Her commitment to providing compassionate, trauma-informed care has earned her respect among colleagues, clients, and communities, establishing her as a trusted leader in the field.
Moreover, Cooley’s work extends into the realm of high-profile criminal cases. Over the last year, she has consulted on forensic psychological assessments within a supermax security prison in the United States. Working alongside law enforcement, she has provided insights into some of the country’s challenging cases, supporting investigative and rehabilitative goals. Her work in this field requires a deep understanding of human behavior, trauma, and criminal psychology, skills she has honed through her diverse experiences and dedication to professional growth. She contributes to improving public safety and therapeutic outcomes for those who need it most through her efforts.
Complementing her clinical expertise, Cooley is also an active scholar and doctoral candidate in Applied Psychology, positioning her at the intersection of practice and research. Her academic journey further enriches her understanding of psychology, enabling her to bridge theory with real-world application in diverse cultural contexts. She serves international clients across North America, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, bringing a nuanced perspective to issues like trauma, depressive disorders, addiction, and cultural awareness. Her work with high-performance clients, including CEOs, medical professionals, and legal experts, reflects her adaptability and skill in addressing complex psychological needs. Cooley is an active member of the American Counseling Association and the American Psychological Association, maintaining a commitment to professional development and ethical practice.
Her personal and professional journey is a powerful story of resilience and reinvention. Despite the glamour and acclaim of her early career, Cooley has chosen a path centered on service and psychological healing. Her ability to navigate the challenges of both the fashion industry and the mental health field illustrates a rare blend of adaptability, empathy, and intellectual rigor. Her experiences as a model and scholar have shaped her therapeutic approach, allowing her to connect with clients from all backgrounds and cultivate a unique perspective on self-worth, resilience, and healing.
Photo Courtesy: “Gin” Cooley-Ridings
In an era where mental health needs continue to grow, Cooley represents a new generation of psychologists who draw from a wide array of experiences to foster positive change. Her work in combating the opioid crisis, leading therapeutic programs in underserved communities, and supporting foster care initiatives underscores her dedication to making a meaningful impact. By combining the rigor of academic study with a hands-on, empathetic approach, she has become a trusted figure in psychology, influencing lives far beyond her Tennessee roots.
Gin Cooley’s journey from high-fashion runways to high-impact psychology inspires and reminds us how diverse talents can intersect to foster meaningful change. Her life’s work, spanning continents and communities, reflects a commitment to empowering individuals and addressing some of our time’s pressing mental health issues.
For more information, visit www.gincooley.com or follow her on Instagram at instagram.com/drinkswithgin.
Published By: Aize Perez
