Individuals who wish to maintain a lot of flexibility within their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab when they need treatment for drug or alcohol abuse. Outpatient rehab makes it possible for the rehabilitation client to take part in rehab services without the commitment one would ordinarily have to consent to in an inpatient or residential drug and alcohol rehab center. This doesn't always work in the rehab client's favor however, particularly for those individuals who need to solve substantial drug abuse issues. So although an outpatient rehab may seem like an opportune option, it isn't for everyone. People who choose an outpatient rehab will generally take part in meetings and be a part of counseling and rehabilitation services part-time each day or a few days weekly. This is often helpful for many who have recently completed a more comprehensive inpatient or residential program as a good aftercare or upkeep step, or for someone with just a brief history of drug abuse which is usually a very small number of clients. For somebody with more severe addiction and dependency issues, inpatient or residential drug and alcohol rehab centers which provide rehab over a long-term basis are going to be the more advantageous rehabilitation alternative.