Gin Cooley journey is a true testament to the limitless potential of the human spirit. From humble beginnings in rural Tennessee to the glamorous runways of Milan and New York, Cooley’s career has spanned the worlds of high fashion, global academia, and the critical field of psychological treatment. Today, she stands as one of the most sought-after psychologists, bringing her expertise to some of the most vulnerable populations and high-profile cases around the world.
A modern American renaissance woman, Cooley’s life story is a fusion of grace, intelligence, and dedication. Her modeling career, which began at the tender age of 16, catapulted her into the international spotlight. Cooley signed with BMG Chicago at 16, quickly transitioning to the legendary JJ Cortez in New York City. By 17, she had signed with Elite Model Management Singapore, marking the beginning of an extraordinary global career. Notably, she walked in Christian Dior’s “Hardcore” show within three months of entering the scene, cementing her status as a rising star in the world of fashion.
Her subsequent runway appearances in Milan Fashion Week, where she worked exclusively with major names such as Gucci, Prada, and Chanel, were a testament to her unparalleled beauty and dedication to her craft. She also appeared in editorials for the most prestigious designers, including Miu Miu, Alexander McQueen, and Louis Vuitton, to name a few. During her time living in Italy, Cooley made waves in the fashion industry and later in the United States with notable appearances in country music videos from 2009 to 2016.
However, it was her passion for education and giving back to the community that marked the beginning of her transition from supermodel to scholar and psychologist. Cooley pursued a career in academia, earning her Doctorate in Applied Psychology. Her scholarly pursuits led her to become a leading psychologist, focused on mental health issues affecting diverse populations globally.
A vital part of her career has been her involvement in combating the opioid crisis in Tennessee. Cooley’s work with medically assisted treatment (MAT) facilities, the Department of Corrections, and her development of an intensive outpatient program (IOP) in 2019, specifically aimed at serving rural communities, have proven critical. Her work has helped mitigate the crisis in her home state, where access to mental health services is often limited, and resources are scarce.
Her global therapeutic outreach now spans across multiple continents, with clients in North and South America, Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and the Caribbean. Through her practice, Cooley provides psychotherapy for a diverse clientele, including individuals from Saudi Arabia, Japan, Serbia, South Korea, Canada, and more. She is a trusted figure for those seeking psychological support for trauma, depressive disorders, addiction, and other emotional struggles.
In 2024, Cooley was appointed the Treatment Director for a Kentucky foster care program, marking a new chapter in her career. This role highlights her dedication to supporting the most vulnerable members of society—children in foster care. As Treatment Director, she is working to bring innovative mental health services to a population in dire need of care, ensuring that these children have the psychological support they need to thrive.
Her expertise extends beyond traditional psychotherapy, as Cooley has also worked closely with law enforcement and correctional facilities. She has spent the last year at a supermax security prison, providing mental health support on some of the most high-profile criminal cases in the United States. Her work in forensic psychology has allowed her to contribute her skills to complex, high-stakes environments, where the intersection of mental health and the law is critical.
As an active member of the American Counseling Association (ACA) and the American Psychological Association (APA), Cooley has become an influential figure in the psychological community. Her continued involvement in research, therapy, and advocacy ensures that she remains at the forefront of the field, committed to making a meaningful impact in both local and global communities.
What sets Cooley apart from others in her field is her holistic approach to therapy, her deep empathy, and her desire to give back. While many may have viewed her modeling career as a dream come true, she chose to use her success and platform to make the world a better place. Her unwavering commitment to serving others, whether in high-profile legal cases or with underserved populations, has made her a beacon of hope and change.
Gin Cooley’s story is a testament to resilience, versatility, and compassion. From her days on the runway to her current role as a renowned psychologist, she has continuously broken barriers and proven that success is not only about personal achievement but also about lifting others. Her work continues to inspire and change lives, one individual at a time.
For more information, visit Gin Cooley official website: www.gincooley.com
Follow her on Instagram: @drinkswithgin
Learn more about her on Wikipedia: Gin Cooley – Wikipedia
Read her profile on Psychology Today: Gin Cooley – Psychology Today