Individuals who want to maintain some flexibility within their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab whenever they need rehab for drug or alcohol abuse. Outpatient rehab will allow for the rehabilitation client to participate in treatment services without the commitment one would ordinarily have to agree to in an inpatient or residential drug and alcohol rehabilitation center. This doesn't always work in the rehabilitation client's favor however, particularly for those individuals who need to resolve substantial substance abuse issues. So while an outpatient rehab may seem like a convenient option, it isn't for everybody. People who do choose an outpatient rehab will typically show up at meetings and take part in counseling and rehab services part-time daily or several days each week. This is often helpful for many who have recently completed a much more complete 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 percentage of clients. For someone with more serious addiction and dependency issues, inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehab facilities which offer rehab over a long-term basis will probably be the more effective rehabilitation option.