Individuals who want to maintain some flexibility within their lives can engage in an outpatient rehab whenever they need treatment for drug or alcohol abuse. Outpatient rehab will allow for the rehab client to participate in treatment services without the commitment you might usually have to agree to within 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 even though an outpatient rehab might appear to be an opportune option, it isn't for everybody. Those who do choose an outpatient rehab will usually attend meetings and be a part of counseling and treatment services on a part-time basis every day or several days each week. This can be very helpful for individuals who have recently completed a more complete inpatient or residential program as a good aftercare or upkeep step, or for someone with just a brief history of drug abuse which is usually a very small amount of clients. For someone with more severe addiction and dependency problems, inpatient or residential drug treatment programs that provide rehabilitation over a long-term basis will probably be the more advantageous rehab option.