Individuals who would like to maintain some flexibility within their lives can engage in an outpatient rehab should they need rehab for substance abuse. Outpatient rehab will allow for the rehab client to participate in rehab services without the commitment one would ordinarily 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, specifically those clients who need to solve substantial drug abuse problems. So while an outpatient rehab may seem like a convenient option, it isn't for everybody. People who decide on an outpatient rehab will typically take part in meetings and be a part of counseling and treatment services part-time every day or a few days a week. This is often helpful for many who have recently completed a much more thorough inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or maintenance step, and someone with just a short history of substance abuse which is usually a really small amount of clients. For someone with more serious addiction and dependency problems, inpatient or residential drug and alcohol rehab centers which provide rehabilitation over a long-term basis are going to be the more effective rehab alternative.