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Gin Cooley: From High Fashion Runways to Becoming a Renowned Psychologist and Advocate for Mental Health
Gin Cooley, a modern American renaissance woman, has successfully transformed her diverse career—from international runway model to world-renowned psychologist, and from advocate to clinical treatment director. With an impressive career spanning multiple fields, Cooley is now recognized for her impactful work in the field of psychology, particularly in combating the opioid epidemic in rural America, as well as her leadership in foster care and correctional healthcare. Her journey from small-town Tennessee to global prominence is a testament to resilience, academic excellence, and an unyielding commitment to improving lives.
From Rural Tennessee to International Fashion Stardom
From an early age, Cooley exhibited an extraordinary drive to excel. Born and raised in rural Tennessee, she broke away from conventional expectations, excelling academically before gaining recognition in the world of fashion. At just 16 years old, Cooley signed with BMG Chicago and quickly transitioned to an international modeling career. By 17, she was representing some of the top agencies in the world, including Elite Model Management in Singapore. Her modeling career flourished, and she became a fixture on the global fashion scene, walking for renowned designers such as Christian Dior, Gucci, Prada, and Miu Miu. From the runways of Milan to the streets of New York City, her presence graced prestigious fashion shows and editorial spreads, securing her place as one of the most sought-after models of her generation.
A Passion for Psychology
Despite her success in the fashion industry, Cooley recognized her true calling was in helping others. Her intellectual curiosity led her to pursue higher education, where she found her passion for psychology. She obtained her academic qualifications and has since become a highly respected therapist with an international clientele. Today, she is a doctoral candidate in Applied Psychology, a licensed psychologist, and a sought-after expert in a range of psychological issues including trauma, addiction, and depressive disorders.
Addressing the Opioid Crisis and Beyond
Cooley’s expertise extends beyond traditional therapy. She has made significant strides in combatting the opioid crisis, particularly in her home state of Tennessee. For the first five years of her career as a licensed psychotherapist, she was actively involved in the state’s efforts to address this epidemic. In 2019, she developed an intensive outpatient program (IOP) designed to serve rural communities, where access to quality care is often limited. In 2024, she wrote the policies for a brand new MAT program at Riverbend maximum security prison in Nashville, TN. Through her work with medically-assisted treatment facilities and the Department of Corrections, Cooley has played a crucial role in helping individuals affected by opioid addiction regain control of their lives.
Commitment to Vulnerable Populations
Her commitment to vulnerable populations extends beyond the opioid crisis. Recently, Cooley was appointed as the Clinical Treatment Director of a therapeutic foster care program in Kentucky, where she has taken on the responsibility of overseeing treatment protocols and providing care for at-risk children and families. Her new role in foster care highlights her dedication to serving those who are most vulnerable in society, particularly children in need of mental health support.
High-Profile Forensic Work
More recently, Cooley’s expertise has been called upon in high-profile forensic cases. She has worked with law enforcement for the past year in a supermax security prison, providing psychological support and consultation on complex criminal cases. Her work in the correctional healthcare sector has further solidified her position as an expert in forensic psychology, where she combines her vast knowledge of mental health with her experience in criminal justice to aid in the rehabilitation of offenders and improve the safety and well-being of incarcerated individuals.
Leadership and Advocacy
Her leadership in both the public and private sectors has earned her recognition from peers, colleagues, and clients alike. Cooley is a member of the American Psychological Association (APA) and the American Counseling Association (ACA), and she has worked tirelessly to advance the field of psychology through her clinical work, advocacy, and research.
Global Impact
Despite her remarkable achievements, Cooley remains grounded in her commitment to making a meaningful impact on the world. She is driven by a deep sense of purpose—using her expertise to help others live healthier, more fulfilled lives. Her journey from the pages of Vogue to the forefront of mental health advocacy is a powerful reminder that with determination and a clear vision, one can achieve anything, no matter the obstacles.
Cooley continues to be an influential force in the field of psychology, with a growing global outreach online that spans North and South America, Europe, Asia, the Middle East, Australia, and the Caribbean. Her work as a psychologist is rooted in the belief that true healing comes not only from addressing the mind but also from understanding and supporting individuals within their unique cultural contexts.
Contact Information
For more information about Gin Cooley, her work as a psychologist, and her ongoing advocacy efforts, please visit her official website at www.gincooley.com, or follow her on Instagram at @drinkswithgin.
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