Individuals who would like to maintain a lot of flexibility within their lives can engage in an outpatient rehab when they need rehab for substance abuse. Outpatient rehab makes it possible for the treatment client to participate in rehab services with the same commitment you might normally have to agree to in an inpatient or residential drug and alcohol treatment facility. This doesn't often work in the rehabilitation client's favor however, specifically those individuals who need to address substantial substance abuse problems. So while an outpatient rehab might appear to be an expedient possibility, it isn't for everyone. People that do choose an outpatient rehab will usually take part in meetings and take part in counseling and rehabilitation services on a part-time basis daily or a few days each week. This is very helpful for individuals who have recently completed a more complete inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or maintenance step, and for someone with only a short history of drug abuse which is usually a very small number of clients. For a person with more severe drug abuse and dependency issues, inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehab facilities which offer rehab on a long-term basis are going to be the more beneficial treatment option.