Gin Cooley has charted a remarkable path from the international fashion runways to becoming a distinguished psychologist and scholar. Her journey reflects a profound commitment to personal growth and societal contribution.
Born in Paris, Tennessee, Cooley began her modeling career at 16, signing with BMG Chicago. She quickly ascended in the fashion world, securing representation with Elite Model Management in Singapore by 17. Her early success included walking for Christian Dior’s “Hardcore” show and modeling for esteemed designers such as Gucci, Prada, and Alexander McQueen. Despite her achievements in fashion, she felt a deeper calling to impact lives beyond the runway.
Transitioning from modeling, Cooley pursued higher education with vigor. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Business and Organizational Management, graduating magna cum laude from Bethel University. She further obtained a master’s degree in Psychology with a focus on Clinical Mental Health from the University of Tennessee at Martin. Currently, she is a doctoral candidate in Applied Psychology, underscoring her dedication to academic excellence.
In her professional practice, Cooley has become an international psychotherapist, offering services to clients across North America, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. Her areas of expertise include trauma, depressive disorders, and addiction. She is recognized for her cross-cultural communication skills and cultural awareness, enabling her to effectively support a diverse clientele.
Over the past five years, Cooley has been instrumental in addressing the opioid crisis in Tennessee. She collaborated with medically assisted treatment facilities and the Department of Corrections to develop an intensive outpatient program (IOP) in 2019, specifically designed to serve rural communities lacking adequate mental health resources. This initiative has been pivotal in providing care to individuals affected by opioid addiction.
In addition to her work in addiction treatment, Cooley has made significant contributions to forensic psychology. She has worked within supermax security prisons, providing expert evaluations and treatment plans for individuals involved in high-profile criminal cases. Her role requires navigating complex psychological and legal frameworks, reflecting her comprehensive understanding of human behavior and the criminal justice system.
Recently, Cooley was appointed as the Clinical Treatment Director for a foster care program in Kentucky. In this capacity, she oversees mental health services for foster children, with a particular focus on supporting trafficked youth. She collaborates with law enforcement, social workers, and mental health professionals to develop trauma-informed care strategies, ensuring these vulnerable children receive the support necessary for recovery and growth.
Cooley is an active member of the American Counseling Association and the American Psychological Association, highlighting her commitment to professional development and ethical practice. Her journey from the fashion industry to psychology exemplifies adaptability, resilience, and a profound dedication to serving others.
For more information about Gin Cooley and her work, please visit her official website at www.gincooley.com or follow her on Instagram at @drinkswithgin. Additional information about her professional background can be found on Wikipedia and Psychology Today.