Individuals who want to maintain a certain amount of flexibility in their lives can engage in an outpatient rehab whenever they need treatment for drug or alcohol abuse. Outpatient rehab makes it possible for the rehabilitation client to participate in rehab services without the commitment you might usually have to consent to in an inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehab facility. This doesn't often work in the treatment client's favor however, particularly for those clients who need to address substantial drug abuse issues. So although an outpatient rehab may seem like a convenient option, it isn't for everyone. People who choose an outpatient rehab will typically show up at meetings and take part in counseling and rehab services part-time on a daily basis or a few days weekly. This is very helpful for those who have recently completed a more complete inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or upkeep step, or someone with only a brief history of drug use which is really a very small amount of clients. For somebody with more significant addiction and dependency problems, inpatient or residential drug and alcohol rehabilitation facilities that provide rehab on a long-term basis will be the more advantageous treatment option.