Substance abuse counselors are working to help clients during the holidays— a time of year that can be particularly challenging for many recovering addicts.

Counselors say that creating a plan to maintain sobriety is vital for people recovering from drugs and alcohol, especially during the holidays. 

Owner of New Wine Counseling, Nicolas Torrez, says he's seeing about 40 clients a week. With the Christmas holiday only a few days away, Torres says the added stress can make the recovery process more challenging, but mapping out ways to avoid old habits helps. 

"It needs to include who you're going to hang out with," Torrez said. "Who's going to be your contact? Who are you going to call if you feel like you're going to drink or you're going to use."

Torrez says that focusing on the days a person has maintained their sobriety can also work, especially when faced with temptations at Christmas and New Year's Eve parties. 

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