Individuals who would like to maintain some flexibility in their lives can engage in an outpatient rehab should they need rehab for drug or alcohol abuse. Outpatient rehab allows for the rehab client to participate in rehabilitation services without the commitment you might ordinarily have to agree to in an inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehabilitation facility. This doesn't often work in the rehab client's favor however, particularly for those clients who need to address significant drug abuse issues. So while an outpatient rehab might appear to be a convenient option, it isn't for everyone. Those that decide on an outpatient rehab will typically show up at meetings and be a part of counseling and rehab services part-time each day or a few days weekly. This can be very helpful for those who have recently completed a much more comprehensive inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or upkeep step, or for someone with just a short history of drug use which is usually a really small amount of clients. For somebody with more serious drug abuse and dependency problems, inpatient or residential drug and alcohol rehab facilities which provide rehab on a long-term basis will probably be the more beneficial rehab choice.