Individuals who want to maintain some flexibility in their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab when they need treatment for substance abuse. Outpatient rehab enables the treatment 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 rehab program. This doesn't always work in the rehab client's favor however, specifically those clients who need to solve substantial drug abuse issues. So while an outpatient rehab may seem like an expedient possibility, it isn't for everyone. Those who do decide on an outpatient rehab will usually attend meetings and be a part of counseling and rehabilitation services on a part-time basis every day or a few days per week. This is often helpful for individuals who have recently completed an even more comprehensive inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or maintenance step, or for someone with just a brief history of substance abuse which is really a very small percentage of clients. For someone with more significant drug abuse and dependency problems, inpatient or residential drug rehabilitation centers which offer rehabilitation over a long-term basis will be the more beneficial rehab alternative.