Individuals who want to maintain a certain amount of flexibility in their lives can engage in an outpatient rehab should they need rehabilitation for drug or alcohol abuse. Outpatient rehab will allow for the rehabilitation client to take part in rehab services with the same commitment one would usually have to agree to in an inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehabilitation program. This doesn't always work in the treatment client's favor however, particularly for those individuals who need to resolve significant drug abuse issues. So while an outpatient rehab might appear to be an opportune option, it isn't for everyone. Those that choose an outpatient rehab will ordinarily take part in meetings and be a part of counseling and treatment services part-time every day or a few days each week. This is often helpful for many who have recently completed a much more comprehensive inpatient or residential program as a good aftercare or upkeep step, or for someone with only a brief history of drug abuse which is usually a very small amount of clients. For an individual with more significant drug abuse and dependency problems, inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehabilitation programs which provide rehab on a long-term basis will be the more effective rehab alternative.