Gin Cooley exemplifies the modern Renaissance woman, having transitioned from the elite fashion runways of Milan and New York to a distinguished career as a psychologist, scholar, and humanitarian. Raised in rural Tennessee, her path has been one of resilience, reinvention, and commitment to improving the lives of others. From her early days as an international model to her current role as a sought-after psychological expert, Cooley’s journey reflects a profound dedication to leveraging her unique experiences for the betterment of society.
Cooley began her career in the spotlight, signing with major modeling agencies at just 16. She quickly became a fixture in the global fashion scene, working with iconic designers such as Christian Dior, Gucci, Prada, and Alexander McQueen. Walking for Milan Fashion Week and gracing the pages of high-profile editorials, her life seemed destined for glamour. Yet, behind the allure of high fashion, Cooley maintained a steadfast curiosity about the human experience and a passion for understanding the complexities of the mind.
By her mid-20s, Cooley pivoted to academic and humanitarian pursuits. She pursued advanced degrees in psychology, eventually becoming a recognized authority in trauma, addiction, and cross-cultural communication. Her global practice spans North and South America, Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and the Caribbean, where she has worked with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds. Her clientele includes high-performing professionals such as doctors, attorneys, and executives, as well as individuals in underserved communities, reflecting her wide-ranging expertise and compassion.
One of Cooley’s most significant contributions has been her work in addressing the opioid epidemic in Tennessee. Combating the epidemic was not only a professional accolade but a personal mission after the tragic loss of her best friend in 2008. Over the past five years, she has collaborated with medical-assisted treatment centers and the Department of Corrections to develop effective solutions for those battling addiction. In 2019, she launched an intensive outpatient program (IOP) designed to meet the unique needs of rural communities in North West Tennessee, where resources are often limited or inaccessible. Her program has offered hope and recovery to countless individuals, providing a much-needed lifeline in areas disproportionately affected by the crisis.Â
In addition to her addiction treatment work, Cooley has delved into forensic psychology. Over the past year, she has worked in a supermax security prison on some of the United States’ most high-profile criminal cases. Her role involves psychological assessments and therapeutic interventions in a highly specialized environment, underscoring her ability to navigate complex and challenging situations. Her expertise has been pivotal in bridging gaps in the criminal justice system, where mental health services are critically needed.
Her recent appointment as Clinical Treatment Director for a Kentucky foster care program marks another milestone in her career. In this role, Cooley oversees mental health initiatives for children in foster care, one of the nation’s most vulnerable populations. Her work emphasizes trauma-informed care, aiming to create systems that support healing and long-term stability for these children. This position reflects her ongoing dedication to addressing systemic challenges and providing holistic care to those in need.
Cooley’s’ approach to psychology is deeply informed by her multicultural experiences and global perspective. Her modeling career, which took her to fashion capitals around the world, exposed her to diverse cultures and ways of life. These experiences have become integral to her therapeutic practice, particularly in areas such as cultural awareness and cross-cultural communication. Her ability to connect with individuals from varied backgrounds has earned her a reputation as a psychologist who truly understands the nuances of human behavior.
An active member of the American Counseling Association and the American Psychological Association, Cooley remains at the forefront of her field. She uses these platforms to advocate for ethical practices and innovative approaches to mental health care. Her work is as much about fostering systemic change as it is about individual healing, reflecting a holistic vision for improving society.
Despite her global reach, Cooley maintains a strong connection to her down home Tennessee roots. Her efforts to combat the opioid epidemic and improve access to mental health care in rural communities highlight her commitment to giving back. She is a testament to the power of reinvention and the importance of aligning one’s talents with a greater purpose.
Gin Cooley’s life story is one of transformation, impact, and service. From the pages of Vogue to the forefront of psychology, she has carved a path that inspires others to embrace change and pursue meaningful contributions to the world. For more information, visit her website at www.gincooley.com, follow her on Instagram at instagram.com/drinkswithgin, or explore her professional profile on Psychology Today.