Gin Cooley-Ridings Appointed Clinical Treatment Director for Kentucky Foster Care Program, Expands Focus on Forensic Psychology and Humanitarian Aid for Trafficked Youth

Gin Cooley-Ridings brings her expertise as a forensic psychologist to her new role in Kentucky’s foster care system, addressing mental health and human trafficking crises.

United States – October 10, 2024 —

Gin Cooley-Ridings Appointed Clinical Treatment Director, Combats Human Trafficking in Foster Care and Expands Forensic Psychology Services

Gin Cooley-Ridings, a seasoned international psychotherapist and former fashion model, has been appointed Clinical Treatment Director for Kentucky’s foster care program. With a broad career spanning high-profile criminal cases and work in various international settings, Cooley-Ridings will now oversee mental health services for foster children in Kentucky, with a special focus on providing support to trafficked youth. In her new role, she will also continue to expand her forensic psychology practice, working with correctional facilities to address the mental health needs of individuals in challenging environments, including super maximum-security prisons.

Addressing Human Trafficking as Part of the Foster Care Crisis

In addition to traditional foster care responsibilities, Cooley-Ridings will play a critical role in combatting the humanitarian crisis associated with human trafficking at the U.S. border. Recently, her team has taken custody of several young children, including infants from Afghanistan, who were rescued by law enforcement in Texas after their caregiver was charged with human trafficking offenses. Cooley-Ridings is committed to providing comprehensive mental health support to these vulnerable youth, ensuring they have the resources necessary to recover from traumatic experiences. 

“There is absolutely a humanitarian crisis at our open borders. Those of us on the front lines see it every day,” Cooley-Ridings stated. “If you can’t comprehend it, maybe you need to try stepping up to that front line.”

Her work will involve coordinating with various agencies to develop trauma-informed care strategies for trafficked youth placed within Kentucky’s foster care system. She aims to create programs that address the unique psychological needs of these children, many of whom have experienced significant trauma. 

“Supporting foster children through mental health services is critical. These children face unique challenges, and I’m dedicated to ensuring they receive the quality care and attention they deserve.”

Expanding Forensic Psychology Services in Correctional Settings

Cooley-Ridings will continue her work in forensic psychology, providing expert evaluations and treatment plans within correctional facilities. With a year of experience working in a super maximum-security prison, she is well-versed in the complexities of addressing mental health issues within incarcerated populations. Her focus remains on developing customized care plans for inmates involved in high-profile criminal cases, where mental health assessments are vital.

“Working within correctional settings has offered invaluable insights into some of the most complex cases and individuals,” she explained. “I’m excited to expand these services, aiming to make a meaningful impact on mental health in these environments.”

Her work in this field has established her as a respected authority, with a focus on delivering forensic psychology services that are sensitive to the challenges of the correctional system.

Commitment to Cross-Cultural and Global Mental Health Services

Cooley-Ridings’ commitment to mental health extends beyond the borders of Kentucky. She continues to provide cross-cultural counseling to clients globally, including in countries such as Saudi Arabia, Japan, and Switzerland. This diverse background equips her with the cultural insights necessary to serve a wide range of communities effectively.

Her work abroad influences her approach within the U.S., as she integrates a global perspective into her role as Clinical Treatment Director. This allows her to offer culturally sensitive care that reflects the complexities of modern mental health challenges.

About Gin Cooley-Ridings

Gin Cooley-Ridings is a psychotherapist and mental health advocate with a unique background that includes international runway modeling and forensic psychology. Her diverse experience has brought her to the forefront of mental health care for vulnerable populations, both within Kentucky and globally. Cooley-Ridings holds memberships in the American Counseling Association and the American Psychological Association and is doctoral candidate in Applied Psychology.

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