Individuals who want to maintain a certain amount of flexibility within their lives can engage in an outpatient rehab if they need rehabilitation for substance abuse. Outpatient rehab enables the treatment client to participate in rehab services without the commitment you might ordinarily have to consent to within an inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehab facility. This doesn't often work in the rehab client's favor however, particularly for those individuals who need to solve substantial substance abuse problems. So while an outpatient rehab might appear to be a convenient option, it isn't for everyone. People who do choose an outpatient rehab will ordinarily take part in meetings and take part in counseling and rehab services part-time every day or a few days weekly. This is helpful for many who have just completed a more thorough inpatient or residential program as a good aftercare or upkeep step, or for someone with just a brief history of substance abuse which is usually a very small percentage of clients. For someone with more serious addiction and dependency issues, inpatient or residential drug and alcohol treatment facilities which offer rehabilitation over a long-term basis will be the more effective treatment alternative.