Individuals who wish to maintain a lot of flexibility within their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab if they need treatment 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 agree to in an inpatient or residential drug rehab facility. This doesn't always work in the treatment client's favor however, specifically those individuals who need to address substantial substance abuse problems. So although an outpatient rehab might appear to be a convenient option, it isn't for everybody. People that do choose an outpatient rehab will usually attend meetings and take part in counseling and treatment services on a part-time basis every day or a few days each week. This can be very helpful for those who have just completed a more extensive inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or upkeep step, and for someone with only a brief history of drug abuse which is really a really small number of clients. For somebody with more serious addiction and dependency issues, inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehabilitation centers which provide treatment over a long-term basis are going to be the more effective rehab choice.