Individuals who want to maintain a lot of flexibility in their lives can engage in an outpatient rehab whenever they need rehabilitation for substance abuse. Outpatient rehab allows for the rehab client to take part in rehabilitation services without the commitment one would ordinarily have to consent 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 clients who need to resolve significant drug abuse problems. So while an outpatient rehab might appear to be an expedient option, it isn't for everybody. Those that choose an outpatient rehab will typically attend meetings and be a part of counseling and treatment services part-time each day or several days weekly. This is often helpful for many who have recently completed a far more comprehensive inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or upkeep step, or for someone with only a brief history of drug abuse which is really a really small amount of clients. For a person with more significant addiction and dependency issues, inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehabilitation facilities that provide rehabilitation over a long-term basis are going to be the more effective treatment choice.