02/12/2026
Salvino Rodriguez
Outpatient Counselor
Salvino (Sal) Rodriguez, 42, is an outpatient counselor at Valley Health Associates (VHA). Salvino is a Salinas native and a single father to two young sons, who are the center of his life and a major source of motivation.
Sal attended North Salinas High School and later on he graduated from Hartnell College, where he earned a degree in Alcohol and Other Drug Studies. In his role at VHA, Salvino works as an Outpatient Counselor. He facilitates group sessions and provides individual counseling, focusing on helping clients develop coping skills, engage in psychoeducation, practice relapse prevention, etc.
“What really resonates with me about Valley Health Associates is their whole-person approach - When you treat the whole person, that’s where real, lasting healing happens,” said Salvino.
Salvino reached 13 years of sobriety on January 4, 2026. A huge milestone for him.
His recovery began at a low point in his life. After the loss of a child and the end of a significant relationship, he turned to alcohol as a way to cope with overwhelming grief. What followed were years of substance use, depression, legal challenges, and a feeling of disconnection from himself and those around him.
On January 4, 2013, a serious incident while under the influence led to his arrest and forced him to confront the impact his addiction was having not only on himself, but on the people he loved most.
After his release, his family chose to confront his addiction in a loving way. Salvino acknowledged his addiction, took full accountability, and committed to recovery through action. He voluntarily entered treatment, attended counseling and AA meetings, and completed all legal requirements stemming from his arrest.
“During early recovery, service and physical fitness became anchors for me,” said Salvino. “Volunteering and pushing myself physically taught me discipline, resilience, and self-respect qualities that still guide my recovery and my work today.”
“My goal as a counselor is simple: to reach even one person. If I can help redirect or positively impact a single life, then I know I’ve fulfilled my purpose in this work,” said Salvino.
