Individuals who want to maintain a certain amount of flexibility in their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab if they need rehabilitation for drug or alcohol abuse. Outpatient rehab will allow for the rehabilitation client to participate in rehab services without the commitment you might ordinarily have to consent to in an inpatient or residential drug and alcohol rehab facility. This doesn't always work in the rehab client's favor however, specifically those individuals who need to address significant drug abuse issues. So although an outpatient rehab may seem like an opportune option, it isn't for everyone. People that do decide on an outpatient rehab will usually take part in meetings and be a part of counseling and rehab services on a part-time basis every day or a few days per week. This is often helpful for those who have just completed an even more extensive inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or upkeep step, and someone with just a short history of substance abuse which is usually a very small number of clients. For somebody with more significant drug abuse and dependency problems, inpatient or residential alcohol and drug treatment programs that provide rehab on a long-term basis are going to be the more advantageous treatment alternative.