Individuals who would like to maintain some flexibility in their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab whenever they need rehabilitation for substance abuse. Outpatient rehab will allow for the rehabilitation client to participate in rehab services with the same commitment one would usually have to consent to within an inpatient or residential alcohol and drug treatment facility. This doesn't always work in the rehab client's favor however, specifically those individuals who need to resolve significant drug abuse problems. So even though an outpatient rehab may seem like an expedient possibility, it isn't for everyone. People that decide on an outpatient rehab will typically attend meetings and take part in therapy and rehab services on a part-time basis each day or a few days per week. This can be very helpful for individuals who have just completed a more thorough inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or upkeep step, and someone with only a brief history of substance abuse which is usually a very small amount of clients. For a person with more serious addiction and dependency issues, inpatient or residential drug rehab programs which provide rehabilitation over a long-term basis are going to be the more beneficial rehabilitation alternative.