Individuals who wish to maintain some flexibility within their lives can engage in an outpatient rehab when they need treatment for substance abuse. Outpatient rehab will allow for the treatment client to participate 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 often work in the treatment client's favor however, specifically those clients who need to solve significant drug abuse problems. So although an outpatient rehab may seem like an opportune option, it isn't for everyone. People that do choose an outpatient rehab will usually show up at meetings and be a part of therapy and treatment services part-time every day or several days per week. This can be very helpful for individuals who have recently completed a much more complete inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or upkeep step, and for someone with only a brief history of substance abuse which is usually a very small amount of clients. For a person with more significant drug abuse and dependency issues, inpatient or residential alcohol and drug treatment programs which offer rehab on a long-term basis are going to be the more beneficial rehab option.