Individuals who wish to maintain a lot of flexibility in their lives can engage in an outpatient rehab whenever they need treatment for drug or alcohol abuse. Outpatient rehab will allow for the rehabilitation client to participate in rehab services with the same commitment one would normally have to agree to within an inpatient or residential drug and alcohol treatment facility. This doesn't always work in the rehab client's favor however, specifically those clients who need to address significant substance abuse problems. So although an outpatient rehab may seem like an opportune possibility, it isn't for everyone. Those who do choose an outpatient rehab will usually take part in meetings and take part in counseling and rehab services on a part-time basis on a daily basis or a few days a week. This is helpful for individuals who have recently completed an even more thorough inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or upkeep step, or someone with just a short history of drug abuse which is usually a really small percentage of clients. For somebody with more significant drug abuse and dependency problems, inpatient or residential drug and alcohol rehab centers that provide rehab over a long-term basis will be the more effective rehab alternative.