Gin Cooley’s remarkable journey from supermodel to internationally recognized psychologist exemplifies the power of transformation and commitment to meaningful change. Starting her career in fashion at just 16 years old, Cooley’s beauty and grace quickly captured the attention of the world’s most prestigious modeling agencies. Her stints on the runways of Milan and New York, including her iconic appearance in Christian Dior’s “Hardcore” show, solidified her place as a rising star in the fashion industry.
But for Cooley, the allure of fame and glamour was not enough. With a deep desire to make a lasting difference, she transitioned from the high-fashion world to academia and psychology. After earning a Doctorate in Applied Psychology, Cooley became a leading figure in mental health, dedicated to helping those most in need. Her expertise spans addiction therapy, trauma recovery, and emotional struggles, and her work has had an incredible impact on a global scale.
One of Cooley’s most notable contributions has been her role in addressing the opioid crisis in her home state of Tennessee. Through her involvement with medically assisted treatment (MAT) facilities and the development of an intensive outpatient program (IOP), Cooley has helped mitigate the crisis in rural communities where mental health services are often scarce. Her programs have provided crucial support to individuals struggling with addiction, offering them a path to recovery that might otherwise have been out of reach.
Her influence has also expanded globally, with clients spanning continents from North America to Asia, Australia, Europe, the Balkans and the Middle East. Whether working with individuals seeking psychotherapy for trauma or providing support for high-profile criminal cases, Cooley’s approach is grounded in empathy and holistic care. She is committed to bridging cultural gaps in mental health support, providing therapy that resonates across diverse populations, from Saudi Arabia to South Korea.
In 2024, Cooley was appointed as the Treatment Director for a Kentucky foster care program, a role that underscores her deep commitment to children and vulnerable populations. As she works to develop innovative mental health services for foster children, Cooley is helping ensure that this at-risk demographic receives the care and support necessary to thrive.
Beyond her clinical work, Cooley has become a trusted advisor for law enforcement and correctional facilities. Her forensic psychology expertise has brought her to supermax security prisons, where she works on some of the country’s most high-profile criminal cases. Here, her ability to navigate the intersection of mental health and law is invaluable, providing critical insight into the psychological needs of incarcerated individuals.
Cooley’s continued involvement with major psychological organizations like the American Psychological Association (APA) ensures that her impact will be felt for years to come. She remains a thought leader in the field, actively contributing to research and advocacy to improve mental health care for both individuals and communities globally.
Her story is a testament to the power of reinvention and the pursuit of purpose beyond personal success. From the glamorous runway to the profound and life-changing work in mental health, Gin Cooley demonstrates that true achievement lies in uplifting others and creating lasting change. Today, her legacy as both a supermodel and a psychological expert continues to inspire and transform lives, proving that one person’s journey can touch the lives of many.
For more information on Gin Cooley’s work, visit www.gincooley.com or follow her on Instagram @drinkswithgin.