Individuals who wish to maintain some flexibility within their lives can engage in an outpatient rehab whenever they need rehab for substance abuse. Outpatient rehab makes it possible for the rehabilitation client to take part 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 treatment client's favor however, particularly for those clients who need to address significant drug abuse issues. So although an outpatient rehab might appear to be an opportune option, it isn't for everyone. People who choose an outpatient rehab will usually show up at meetings and be a part of therapy and treatment services on a part-time basis on a daily basis or a few days per week. This can be very helpful for many who have just completed an even more thorough inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or maintenance step, and for someone with just a brief history of drug use which is really a very small number of clients. For somebody with more serious addiction and dependency issues, inpatient or residential drug and alcohol rehabilitation centers which provide rehab on a long-term basis will probably be the more beneficial rehabilitation alternative.