Gin Cooley-Ridings has lived a life marked by transformation, resilience, and commitment to making an impact on the world. From the glamorous runways of Milan and New York to the intense challenges of forensic psychology, her career has spanned seemingly contrasting worlds. Yet, at the heart of it all lies an unwavering dedication to serve others, particularly those grappling with trauma, addiction, and mental health challenges. Cooley-Ridings’ journey serves as a remarkable example of how one’s passions and talents can evolve into something greater and more meaningful with time and purpose.
A Fashion Journey That Spanned the Globe
At the age of 16, Gin Cooley-Ridings stepped into the world of high fashion, a move that would soon propel her onto the runways of some of the most prestigious cities in the fashion industry. Working with elite fashion houses such as Gucci, Prada, and Christian Dior, Gin’s early years as a model saw her traveling across the globe at high-profile events in Milan, Singapore, and New York.
Her career wasn’t just about the glamour of the runway. It required a deep level of commitment, discipline, and resilience—qualities that would later serve her well in her second act as a psychologist. Fashion, for all its beauty and allure, is a world of constant reinvention and intense pressure, and Gin’s experience within that world cultivated in her a unique understanding of personal and societal expectations. The lessons learned during this phase of her life would profoundly influence her later work in psychology, where she applied these insights to help others navigate their challenges.
Transitioning from Fashion to Psychology
Photo Courtesy: Gin Cooley-Ridings
As Gin Cooley-Ridings grew through her modeling career, she felt the call to pursue something deeper that would allow her to give back to the world more profoundly. That call led her to psychology, where she would transition from the world of fashion into academia. Her pursuit of a degree in Applied Psychology marked the beginning of her new life as a psychotherapist.
Today, Gin is recognized for her work as a psychologist, specializing in treating trauma, depressive disorders, and addiction. Her client base has grown to include high-profile individuals such as doctors, attorneys, and athletes, with her therapeutic approach grounded in compassion, cultural awareness, and deep expertise. Gin’s work transcends geographical boundaries, with clients not only across North America but also in the Middle East, Asia, and Europe. This diverse clientele is a testament to her ability to adapt her methods to different cultural contexts while addressing universal human struggles.
Gin Cooley-Ridings’ journey into psychology wasn’t merely a career shift; it was a reflection of her desire to make a lasting impact on people’s lives. In her own words, “I could have done anything with my life, but I chose to give back everything I have to make the world better.” This philosophy continues to guide her in every facet of her work, whether she is supporting individuals in their mental health journey or tackling larger societal issues.
Addressing the Opioid Crisis and Forensic Psychology
One of Gin’s most significant contributions has been her role in combating the opioid crisis in her home state of Tennessee. Recognizing the devastating impact of opioid addiction on rural communities, she developed an intensive outpatient program (IOP) specifically designed to provide critical care to those with limited access to mental health services. This initiative, which has been instrumental in helping individuals recover from addiction, reflects Gin’s deep commitment to serving underserved populations.
Her work doesn’t end there. Gin Cooley-Ridings has also made a name for herself in the field of forensic psychology. Working with high-profile criminal cases in a supermax security prison, she has contributed her expertise in some of the most challenging psychological environments. Forensic psychology, particularly in the context of the criminal justice system, demands psychological acumen and the ability to navigate complex legal frameworks. Gin’s ability to thrive in this demanding field is a reflection of her intellectual rigor and her commitment to justice.
Her impact extends beyond her direct work with clients. She has been actively involved in educating and influencing policies that address the mental health needs of individuals in the justice system. By combining her therapeutic expertise with her deep understanding of human behavior, she has been able to advocate for more compassionate approaches to rehabilitation.
Leadership as a Treatment Director
Recently, Gin Cooley-Ridings was appointed Treatment Director for a foster care program in Kentucky, further cementing her commitment to helping vulnerable populations. In this role, she collaborates with law enforcement, social workers, and mental health professionals to provide essential care and support for children within the foster care system. This position allows her to apply her extensive knowledge of trauma and child psychology to improve the lives of some of society’s most at-risk youth.
Her work as Treatment Director speaks to her broader vision of creating a society where mental health is prioritized and where the most vulnerable are given the tools and support they need to heal and thrive. As she continues to build on her accomplishments, Gin remains dedicated to fostering environments of safety and growth for individuals facing mental health challenges.
Academic and Professional Achievements
Gin Cooley-Ridings’ academic journey is as impressive as her professional one. Currently a doctoral candidate in Applied Psychology, she is on the path to further expanding her influence within the field of mental health. Her membership in esteemed organizations like the American Counseling Association and the American Psychological Association showcases her standing within the academic and professional communities.
Her cross-cultural communication and trauma treatment expertise make her a highly sought-after speaker and consultant. Whether addressing issues of addiction, mental health, or trauma, Gin’s insights resonate with a wide range of audiences, from corporate leaders to those working on the front lines of mental health care.
A Life of Purpose and Service
Photo Courtesy: Gin Cooley-Ridings (@drinkswithgin)
Gin Cooley-Ridings’ journey from fashion model to forensic psychologist is not just a career evolution but a testament to her drive to make a meaningful difference in the world. Her ability to move between vastly different industries with grace and effectiveness speaks to her adaptability, intelligence, and unwavering commitment to service.
From walking the runways of Milan and New York to working with high-profile clients and solving complex forensic cases, Gin Cooley-Ridings has proven that no matter where life takes you, the desire to help others and give back remains the most valuable pursuit. Through her ongoing work in psychology, addiction treatment, and trauma recovery, Gin continues to inspire others to use their talents to make the world a better place.
For more information, visit http://www.gincooley.com.
Published by: Josh Tatunay
