Individuals who wish to maintain a certain amount of flexibility within their lives can engage in an outpatient rehab should they need rehabilitation for drug or alcohol abuse. Outpatient rehab will allow for the rehabilitation client to participate in rehab services without the commitment one would normally have to consent to in an inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehab center. This doesn't often work in the rehabilitation client's favor however, specifically those clients who need to address substantial substance abuse problems. So even though an outpatient rehab might appear to be an expedient option, it isn't for everyone. Those who decide on an outpatient rehab will typically show up at meetings and be a part of counseling and rehabilitation services on a part-time basis on a daily basis or several days per week. This is very helpful for many who have just completed a more extensive inpatient or residential program as a good aftercare or upkeep step, or someone with only a short history of substance abuse which is really a really small percentage of clients. For an individual with more significant drug abuse and dependency problems, inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehab centers which provide treatment on a long-term basis will probably be the more effective treatment alternative.