Individuals who would like to maintain some flexibility in their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab whenever they need rehab for drug or alcohol abuse. Outpatient rehab allows for the treatment client to take part in treatment services with the same commitment one would usually have to consent to within an inpatient or residential alcohol and drug treatment program. This doesn't always work in the rehab client's favor however, specifically those clients who need to resolve significant drug abuse problems. So although an outpatient rehab might appear to be an expedient option, it isn't for everybody. Those who choose an outpatient rehab will typically attend meetings and take part in therapy and rehabilitation services on a part-time basis on a daily basis or a few days each week. This is very helpful for those who have recently completed an even more extensive inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or upkeep step, or for someone with just a short history of drug abuse which is usually a very small percentage of clients. For a person with more significant addiction and dependency problems, inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehabilitation programs which offer treatment over a long-term basis will probably be the more beneficial rehab alternative.