Individuals who would like to maintain some flexibility within their lives can engage in an outpatient rehab when they need rehab for substance abuse. Outpatient rehab will allow for the rehab client to participate in rehabilitation services with the same commitment one would normally have to consent to in an inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehabilitation facility. This doesn't always work in the rehab client's favor however, specifically those individuals who need to resolve significant substance abuse problems. So while an outpatient rehab might appear to be an expedient option, it isn't for everyone. People that do decide on an outpatient rehab will generally take part in meetings and take part in therapy and treatment services part-time on a daily basis or several days a week. This is often helpful for individuals who have just completed an even more comprehensive inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or upkeep step, and someone with only a short history of drug use which is usually a really small number of clients. For an individual with more significant drug abuse and dependency problems, inpatient or residential drug and alcohol treatment centers which offer rehabilitation on a long-term basis are going to be the more advantageous rehab alternative.